Around Melbourne
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Every year, the Melbourne Fringe Festival makes jaws drop and eyes widen across the city with its unconventional line-up of independent theatre, comedy, drag, art, music and events. This year marks the 43rd iteration of the festival, which is known for championing big, radical ideas and being an all out celebration of Melbourne at its weirdest.
Melbourne Fringe returns to the city again from September 30 to October 19, with a program of events set to show punters exactly how to experience the best that the arts in our fair city has to offer. This year the theme is ‘Action Heroes Assemble’, and it's aiming to encourage everyday people to take part, take risks and take action to help shape the kind of world we all want to live in.
Leading the stacked line-up is the festival's major public artwork: 'Power Move' by Quiet Riot. This free public dancefloor will be located at Fed Square, and using cutting-edge technology it will channel everyone's moves into green energy. The Opening Night Gala – this year hosted by Sammy J – is always a riotous night packed with comedy, cabaret, circus and plenty of surprises. And don't forget to come dressed as your childhood hero.
You can witness queer family making in real time at First Trimester by Krishna Istha. This live performance invites audiences to join in Istha’s public search for a sperm donor. Or why not go for a stroll with a Gen Z as part of Nightwalks With Teenagers – part performance, part social experiment, it's been co-created by local youths.
Handle With Care is a collective, participatory theatre experience revolving around a box on a stage, while Fringe Flavours at the Queen Vic Market blends food with pop-up art and roving entertainment.
As always, this year’s festival will feature a mix of established and emerging artists, while the open access program is a feast for the senses created by independent artists.
“This year’s Melbourne Fringe Festival is a rallying cry for creativity in motion,” said Fringe creative director and CEO Simon Abrahams. “It’s about doing something – moving your body, participating in whatever way you can. Because action isn’t just about activism; it’s about participation.”
Keen to step out of your comfort zone? Peruse the entire enormous program, squiz the session details and lock in your tickets via the Melbourne Fringe website.
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