Golden hour in Sydney is a magical time; when the glare of the day fades and the dropping sun coats the city in a buttery glow. And there’s one particular spot in Sydney that seems to catch the light perfectly – a fail-safe sunset spot with views across the Harbour, and one of the best places to stargaze when daylight disappears entirely. We’re talking about Sydney Observatory, and for five Fridays this summer, golden hour at this spot is ramping up to the next level – elevated by a series of three-hour live music sets programmed by the creative people behind Powerhouse.
Sunset Variations will kick off on Friday, January 30 with an ambient Afrofuturist performance by Ethiopian Australian sound artist, Nū, to set the tone as the light disappears from the sky above the Harbour City.
Next up, on Friday, February 6, experimental electronic artist e fishpool will soundtrack sunset with a mesmeric performance. Friday, February 13 will welcome the cinematic compositions from the Aarti Jadu Ensemble, performing alongside Emma Ovenden and George Worthy. Then, on Friday, February 20, Luritja singer-songwriter and visual artist Keanu Nelson will take over the heritage site with a spell-binding performance as an ode to his Papunya roots.
The series will come to a close with a powerful set from the Setwun: Celestial Bodies on Friday, February 27. The soulful, percussive showcase, led by composer and multi-instrumentalist DJ Josh Panakera-Molony, will blend jazz, groove and dance music over the course of the evening, with several special guests taking to the stage including GLO, Pookie, INQ, Meklit, Yasmina Sadiki, Hugh B and many more members of the Soulstravision family.
Roll out your picnic blanket and snag a spot on Sydney’s highest natural point for alfresco music at its finest. Swing by the bar (they'll be pouring natural wines curated by Lo-Fi Wines) and grab Mediterranean-inspired food from Aplenty before settling in. Entry is just $10, with free entry for kids under 12. Performances run from 5-8pm.
Tickets are limited, book now.