The Melbourne Fringe Festival is set to transform the city center from October 1 to 20, showcasing more than 470 arts events in a bold program entitled 'Eat Your Art Out'.
One of Australia's largest multi-arts events, the festival features an open buffet of performances from more than 2,500 artists across a variety of disciplines including theatre, dance, circus, music and visual arts.
This year's festival will introduce the COOKED project, which features an architecturally designed hot plate stage and barbecue run by culinary group Long Prawn.
The program begins with Seasoning the Grill, which fuses Indigenous grilling traditions with modern performance art.
Throughout the evening, “COOKED: Hot Nights” will offer shows that combine performance and dining experiences, such as “Indecisive Cinema – STEAK & Sausages,” which combines underground cinema and gastronomy.
On the same opening night, the Fringe's Opening Night Gala, held at the historic Capitol Theatre, will highlight the festival's highlights and feature a “culinary couture” dress code that encourages guests to wear food-themed attire. sets the atmosphere.
This event will preview the diverse performances and artistic expressions that will be showcased throughout the festival.
In partnership with Queen Victoria Market and Melbourne Museum, the festival will also introduce additional attractions such as Fringe Flavors Night Market. Held from late September to October, this market combines food and performance in QCV's vibrant nighttime atmosphere.
The Festival Hub in the Trades Hall will host more than 100 events, including Finucane & Smith's Global Smash Club, celebrating 20 years of Burlesque Hour with a spectacular and sinister show featuring some of the biggest local acts.
The Hub will also feature personal storytelling performances, reflecting the festival's commitment to presenting real-life stories.
Meanwhile, the Deadly Fringe program is dedicated to highlighting Indigenous artists, including Digital Echoes, an innovative project that combines technology and music, and Indigenous music and storytelling. It features notable events such as Gikirangang Welgaia, a fusion performance.
“In this moment, Melbourne Fringe offers both sanctuary and provocation. We have amazing, risk-taking art that reflects today's world while entertaining those who knock their socks off. We're showcasing both veteran and emerging artists who truly know their craft,'' said Melbourne Fringe Creative Director Simon Abrahams.
“Our festival is a chance for Melbourne to express itself, to see the world differently, to hear new perspectives and to feel something alive, visceral and urgent. Yes, everyone is invited.”
Held over two and a half weeks each year, the Melbourne Fringe Festival celebrates Melbourne's vibrant cultural scene while continuing to encourage accessibility and inclusivity and providing a platform for up-and-coming independent artists.
The festival's events in the CBD are a diverse and bold program, inviting locals and visitors alike to experience a unique taste of the world of art. •
