First Nations Arts and Culture Fest YIRRAMBOI Returns This Month with a Huge Ten-Day Program

Melbourne's urban landscape will be the setting for a dynamic celebration of country and creativity this month, as citywide First Nations festival YIRRAMBOI returns for its huge 2023 instalment. The multi-disciplinary fest will once again dish up a hefty, thought-provoking program of Indigenous arts and culture, running from Thursday, May 4–Sunday, May 14.

Named after the word for 'tomorrow' in local Boonwurrung and Woi-wurrung languages, YIRRAMBOI will cast its gaze forward, showcasing the work of more than 300 First Nations artists and creatives. It's as fresh and exciting a lineup of talent as ever before, spanning everything from contemporary music and traditional dance to installations and stunning drag performances.

Offering a snapshot of the genre-hopping offerings to come is jam-packed free event Barring Yanabul, which descends on multiple venues and spaces on Saturday, May 6. It's dishing up a diverse spread of goodness that includes gigs from the likes of Garret Lyon, Blanche and Leo; a pop-up exhibition by artist Malachai presenting contemporary works spiked with ancestral influence; and a shape-shifting dance performance choreographed by Brett Beckhurst.

Leonie Whyman and Jada Narkle, by Sapphic Flicks

The same day sees the Uncle Archie Roach Block Party take over Section 8, serving up tunes and performances from the likes of Kiwat, Yung Warriors, Kutcha Edwards, Kobie Dee and Amos Roach.

Meanwhile, North Melbourne's Meat Market will be reimagined as this year's festival hub, named after the late Aboriginal actor and arts icon Uncle Jack Charles. Head along for a broad-ranging program of comedy, cabaret, contemporary dance, tunes and visual art. The space will also play host to opening night fiesta The Beginning, kicking things off with a star-studded musical lineup from 6pm on May 4.

Maylene Yinarr, by Jacinta Keefe

Among YIRRAMBOI's other highlights, you'll catch world premieres including singer-songwriter David Arden's powerful theatrical retelling of the story of his great-grandfather James Arden and the Gunditjmara People, and Alluvium by Stone Motherless Cold — a retro-futuristic drag cabaret show exploring a hopeful post-decolonlisation world.

Music lovers are in for a busy ten days spent soaking up sonic treats from the likes of Maylene Yinarr, Philly, Crooked TP, Elijah Money, Brian Morley, Leonie Whyman and others.

Renowned Gunai/Kurnai and Yorta Yorta artist DJ PGZ takes over the Melbourne Town Hall grand organ for a night of bass-heavy techno sounds, while queer celebration BLAKOUT will have Arts Centre Melbourne's State Theatre heaving with a dance-friendly serve of DJ tunes, cabaret and storytelling.

BLAKOUT

Catch a post-apocalyptic fashion runway showcasing designs by the likes of Haus of Dizzy, Paola Balla and Gammin Threads; be dazzled at a bottomless drag brunch hosted by a lineup of First Nations queens; and immerse yourself in cross-cultural connections at an exhibition series held in collaboration with Dark Mofo.

And on Saturday, May 13, Sorbaes — the much-loved club session born from the mind of DJ and designer Soju Gang — will hit the festival hub for a thumping closing party, complete with a lineup of special guests in tow.

Kimberly Lovegrove, by Jim Lee

YIRRAMBOI takes place at venues across Melbourne from Thursday, May 4–Sunday, May 14. For the full program and to buy tickets, head to the website.

Top image: Darren Gill.