Hybrid Format for Rainforest World Music Festival 2022

After two years away from the traditional on-site festival experience, the Rainforest World Music Festival 2022 (RWMF2022) returns with a unique hybrid format. But what exactly does a hybrid format mean? In this article, we’ll explain it in the simplest way possible.

As one of the first world music festivals to introduce this mixed approach, the organisers are taking a bold step to redefine how music festivals are experienced. The hybrid concept combines both physical and digital performances throughout the festival. This means audiences can enjoy the event either by attending in person or by watching online from anywhere in the world.

Performers at the Rainforest World Music Festival.

For those unable to travel to Sarawak, online tickets will be available, allowing viewers to experience RWMF2022 from the comfort of their homes or offices. Celebrating its 25th anniversary, the Rainforest World Music Festival will feature over 60 bands and performers this year, making it one of the festival’s biggest editions yet.

Physical and Digital Stages at RWMF2022

This year’s festival will feature two stages — one physical and one digital — positioned side by side, with an interchangeable performance format.

Physical RWMF Stage

The physical stage will host 30 local and international performers over three days. Among them, 12 bands and artists will be international acts, while the remaining performers will showcase local Sarawakian talent and culture.

Digital RWMF Stage

The digital stage will feature pre-recorded performances from musicians around the world, alongside special cultural and musical showcases. These performances will seamlessly alternate with the live acts on the physical stage, creating a continuous entertainment experience for both in-person and online audiences.

What the two RWMF stages will look like during the event.

For those interested in experiencing the RWMF2022 online, there will be a special sale on viewing blocks, available by the hour. This will allow viewers to buy viewing blocks and choose which performers they would like to see performing from the comfort of their homes. Each viewing block is priced at RM25.00, and viewers are entitled to only two blocks per day.

Visitors attend a music workshop at the festival.

Rainforest World Music Festival Workshops

For the RWMF workshops, there will be local and international combinations with and structure, taking place in an ad hoc style. There will also be a special Sape Jam on Friday, the festival’s first day. This is worth noting, as it showcases Sarawak’s traditional Sape instrument. Some workshops may also be shared online in a hybrid format, so keep looking out for them.

Rainforest World Music Festival Food Bazaar

One unique experience visitors can enjoy is the ethnic food bazaar, which showcases fantastic cuisines from the Bidayuh, Iban, Kayan, and Malay groups. The regular location for this section is usually the Bidayuh House, though the site may change; it will still be on the festival grounds.

A visitor checks out some local Sarawakian handicrafts at the craft bazaar.

Rainforest World Music Festival Craft Bazaar 

This year, the usual RWMF Craft Bazaar will occur in the cultural village’s common area under the Melanau Tall House. There will also be a unique collaboration with Shopee for this RWMF2022, with several items available both offline and online.

RWMF Early Bird Ticket Sales

The Rainforest World Music Festival currently has early bird ticket sales online, where you can buy them from the RWMF website.

The early-bird tickets end on 14th May; therefore, if you are confirmed to go, this should be the first thing you get, after accommodation and air tickets.

When is RWMF 2022?

• Date: 17-19 June
• Venue: Sarawak Cultural Village, Santubong
• More information at the RWMF Website

Conclusion

There we go, explaining what the hybrid format means and what visitors or those staying home can expect. As for me, I will be attending the festival in person, especially now that Malaysia has relaxed many of the SOPs for COVID-19.