How would you describe the Rainbow Serpent Festival to someone who’s never been to an event of this style and size?

I think it's definately an alternative style event. Its a mixture of dance party with weekend camping adventure and a lot of unusual and colourful surprises thrown in.

What are the aims of this event? It’s more than just dance music, isn’t it?

While we try and define the event to some extent it really has a life of its own. Over the last few years it has evolved from basically a big outdoor party to a real community collective with many activities, artforms and opportunities for participation.

This is going to be the sixth Rainbow Serpent. Tell us a bit about the history of the event.

The first one was held in 1998, it was just a one night party and immediately showed that there was a real demand for an event of this type. There were just under 1000 people there and it rained all night - but Im sure everyone who was there remembers it as the beginning of something special. Since then each year has grown and we have been priviliged to be able to bring some of the legends of the trance movement to this country for this first time including XDream, Hallucinogen, Man with No Name and many of the world's top DJs. It is now officially a 3 day event with many people getting there early and leaving late making it almost a week long adventure. It has gained a reputation around the world as Australia's most recognised trance gathering.

What have been some memorable moments?

As already mentioned we have had some of the world's legends of trance play at Rainbow Serpent - Hallucinogen and XDream sunrise sets would have to be amongst the most amazing party experiences I have ever had.

What’s new for this year’s event? What treats are in store in terms of production, performers, and the venue?

Each year we put alot of thought and effort into the lineup & production. This year sees some great acts including Talamasca & Bitmonx,who will sound awesome on the massive EAW sound system on the main floor. There will also be the spectacular visual production which includes towering decor sculptures, lasers , VJs and projection lighting shows, plus more performers than ever before. We will be using the same site as in previous years although there have been a few changes and the layout will provide some good adventures. Also there is bigger focus on the healing and workshops area with lots of interesting programs on offer.

What other events have you been a part of?
As Green Ant we have put on other parties such as the full moon parties and zenith parties. I also have an interest in other styles of music and started out doing warehouse rave parties a long time ago. Other recent events I have been involved in include the Substance progressive parties and also the War of the Worlds techno/rave series.

Many feel that large-scale dance parties (Welcome etc) are dying a slow, ugly death. And yet the Serpent Festival and others like it, Earthcore, Outback Eclipse, Earthdance, etc, are still hugely successful. Why do you think this style of party is ever-popular?

I think outdoor events in particular will always have abit more to offer. It's more of an adventure and as a punter you can make it as enjoyable as you want to by how much effort you put in. You are not limited to a four walled venue and the standard means of production which everyone has seen before. The added aspect of a 3 day festival such as Rainbow Serpent also has the advantage of allowing you to really get into the atmosphere by letting go of your everyday concerns and really letting loose and getting the most out of the experience. It can sometime take a day or 2 before some people can open up and the party can take on a whole new perspective.

What’s on the agenda for Frank Venuto and Green Ant in 2003?

I guess if all goes well, more of the same. As a label Green Ant has become an important outlet for up and coming and developing new producers. There will be another compilation later this year, and I would personally like to spend some time in the studio myself. We have been hoping to do another Full Moon party which would be great and of course starting to plan next year's Rainbow Serpent won't be too far away. Looks like another busy year ahead!

The 2003 Rainbow Serpent Festival happens over the Australia Day long weekend, January 24-26. Click here for full event details.