Get ready for RISING, one of the biggest new cultural events to land in Australia, launching in May 2021.
We’re beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Venues are reopening, with easing restriction allowing even more guests into bars, restaurants and even pubs. Galleries and museums are returning. Even gyms might be swinging open their doors in the coming weeks. And with all of this in mind, we’re thrilled to share news of an exciting new cultural event that’s set to launch in Oz in winter 2021.
Say hello to RISING, a new festival brought to you by the creative directors from Hobart’s iconic Dark MOFO festival (which was forced to postpone its annual event until 2021). Celebrating its inaugural event in winter 2021, RISING will take the place of the White Night and the Melbourne International Arts Festival (both of which were paused due to the pandemic). However, RISING promises to bring the best of arts and culture in Melbourne and Victoria to the forefront with a stellar line-up of talent.
In dramatic fashion, RISING will kick off on the evening of the total lunar eclipse in May 2021. Off the back of such an uncertain time, the festival hopes to use art, culture and events to re-energise the city. Throughout the festival, expect dynamic public art, performances, music and more, featuring a diverse array of emerging and iconic artists. The program’s co-Artistic Directors Hannah Fox (Associate CD at Dark Mofo) and Gideon Obarzanek (XO State at Asia Topa, Melbourne Fringe Festival) are bringing together a team of national and international arts professionals to help program the festival and bring their vision to life.
Although the first program announcement isn’t due until later in the year, Victorian-based artists are encouraged to apply to take part in this one-of-a-kind event. The festival is looking for everything from virtual arts to performance, theatre, dance, music and anything creative suited to a festival context. Get in quick, applications close June 8th. Find out more here.
RISING’s inaugural festival will run from May 26th to June 6th 20201 in Melbourne. More details to come.
