Join REAF in 2027

A look back at REAF2026

REAF2027 will be held 13 to 16 May 2027

The City of Karratha acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we live and work, the Ngarluma People, and recognises their continuing connection to country, waterways and community. We pay our respect to all Elders, past, present and emerging.

Held annually over multiple days in May, the Red Earth Arts Festival (REAF) is one of the Pilbara’s most iconic festivals, attracting thousands of visitors, running into its 17th year in 2027. REAF features visual and performing arts, including music, dance, theatre, circus arts, opera, sculpture, painting, media arts and film. Artists and performers are invited to contribute their unique perspectives, talents, and passions to the vibrant tapestry of our festival.

REAF transforms ordinary spaces into captivating canvases, infusing them with the vibrancy of art in all its forms. Whether you're a performer, sculptor, dancer, musician, roving entertainer or any other form of creative soul, this is your moment to shine across our grand region, spanning from Karratha to Dampier and Roebourne, Wickham, and Point Samson. Artists from every corner of this beautiful country are invited to become part of our rich legacy.

REAF promises to uphold its tradition of inspiring and nurturing the creative spirit in all of us.

REAF 2027 EOIs closed at 5pm AWST on Sunday 26 July 2026.

Thank you for your interest! We will be in touch with artists and performers who completed the EOI in the coming weeks.

Learn about potential venue locations, accommodation and travel information, accessibility, inclusion and the City of Karratha on our information page.

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST ARE NOW CLOSED FOR 2027

Frequently asked questions

  • REAF welcomes all artists/performing artists, musicians, entertainers, and the like. We encourage all local, regional, state and interstate talent to apply, however there is consideration for out of state and international acts.

  • Your performance fee will depend on a number of factors including the scale of your project, if your performance/s is ticketed or free, if workshops are included, travel costs and what additional funding can be acquired from you. When supplying your performance fee please consider a number of factors including any royalties, per diems, if included, travel needs and anything that may not fit standard fees, which may include excess baggage, accommodation, car hire (we are regional so please look at the area to consider if you will need this!), rehearsal booking space if required, and more.

  • We encourage applications from anyone who are creative and inspired. We understand, especially for some of our local/regional community that you may not have all the requested links and that’s okay! Please send us whatever you might find helpful to support your application, even if that means you need to record something today! We want to see you, experience your skill set, and get a feel for your style! If you require any further information on this, please feel free to contact us.

  • This information is very important for us to get a full picture of your amazing offer and requirements! It is vital that all technical information, production requirements, performance information including number of performances and workshops, stage set up and requirements are included! If this information is provided post contractual agreement and come at an extra cost outside the agreed fee, the costs will be passed on to the artists.

  • Applications will be reviewed and shortlisted applicants will be contacted within two months of the application close date.  

  • Absolutely! We encourage anyone who has submitted before to do so again. We would love to see how you have grown and developed over time. 

  • Yes, please feel free to contact our programming team at reaf@karratha.wa.gov.au or call 08 9186 8088 to discuss you application.