Albany’s community is being invited to step forward and help lead thousands of lantern-bearers as part of Carrying the Fire, one of the final major events of the Albany 2026 program.
Southern Edge Arts is seeking 200 Lantern Leaders to play a special role in the large-scale community artwork, which will illuminate the coastline from Emu Point to Binalup/Middleton Beach on Saturday, 7 November.
Lantern Leaders will be positioned at locations along the beach and boardwalk, helping guide groups of participants through simple movements as thousands of handmade lanterns come together to create a spectacular living artwork.
Albany 2026 Coordinator Adam Gregory said becoming a Lantern Leader offered community members an opportunity to experience Carrying the Fire from right at the heart of the event.
“Lantern Leaders will be an incredibly important part of bringing thousands of individual participants together to create something much bigger,” he said.
“It is a chance to be more than a spectator and have a genuine role in one of the defining moments of Albany 2026.
“You don’t need to think of yourself as a performer or have any special experience. If you’re willing to get involved, meet people and help lead the way, this is a wonderful opportunity to be part of something we hope people will remember for years to come."
Southern Edge Arts Artistic Director Annette Carmichael said the role had been designed to be accessible, with no previous performance experience required.
“We’re looking for people aged 15 and over who are comfortable moving their body in a simple way and happy to help guide members of the public on the night,” she said.
“Each Lantern Leader will attend one workshop where we’ll explain the project, make lanterns and learn the simple movements, followed by a few fun and easy rehearsals before participating in the final event.
“Everything you need to know will be taught along the way, so you don’t need any performance or dance experience. We’re really looking for people who are enthusiastic, reliable and excited to help bring the community together.”
Workshops will be held across Albany and Denmark during August and September, with a range of dates available. Lantern Leaders will then attend a short series of rehearsals before Carrying the Fire on Saturday, 7 November.
Carrying the Fire is initiated, produced and presented by FORM in collaboration with Creative Producer Southern Edge Arts and Artistic Director Annette Carmichael, as part of the Albany 2026 program.
Registrations to become a Lantern Leader are now open.
