YIRRAMBOI Festival is returning to Naarm for its fourth edition this May, with a lineup featuring over 300 artists and creatives performing in 170 shows across 40 venues in the city. The festival will be a multidisciplinary celebration of music, dance, art, storytelling, comedy, and theatre. Curated in honor of Blak love, joy, and excellence, YIRRAMBOI will showcase the enduring resilience of First Nations people and their journey towards a Blak-led future.
Running from May 4th to May 14, the festival will be centered around a dedicated hub at North Melbourne’s Meat Market, paying homage to the late Uncle Jack Charles. Festival co-lead Sherene Stewart explains:
“YIRRAMBOI Festival is more than just a gathering of artists and creatives, but a platform for change, development, and exchange, envisaging a future where our culture and shared history are respectfully celebrated by all.”
While the full lineup of musicians and artists has yet to be announced, there are already some exciting program highlights to look forward to, including a performance by Yorta Yorta and Wiradjuri producer DJ PGZ, who will use the mammoth Grand Organ at Melbourne Town Hall for a set that promises to be a unique musical experience.
Other must-see events include an Uncle Archie Roach Block Party on May 6th featuring drag performances and art installations, as well as a State Theatre performance by drag star Kween Kong. Additionally, YIRRAMBOI has joined forces with the Tasmanian festival Dark Mofo to present Kin, an exhibition of artistic collaborations between eight First Nations artists from the Palawa and Koori Peoples.
With a vision for the future that is both ambitious and inspiring, YIRRAMBOI Festival promises to be an unforgettable celebration of Blak creativity and excellence that you won’t want to miss. Keep your eyes peeled for the full lineup, set to be announced in mid-April.
You can check out YIRRAMBOI Festival’s full program here.