Overview
With summer waiting just around the corner, it's time to start plotting how to cram those warmer months with as many openair live music experiences as possible. And here's some more musical goodness to add to your hit-list: the return of Arts Centre Melbourne's concert series Live at the Bowl.
Returning to the iconic Sidney Myer Music Bowl from Wednesday, January 4–Saturday, March 11, the sonic celebration is set to deliver a hefty lineup of local and international talent to start your year off right. And it all kicks off with a couple of huge gigs from UK rockers Arctic Monkeys.
Other international stars set to grace the stage include indie-folk legends Bon Iver, German DJ Boris Brejcha, New Zealand's Lorde and US singer-songwriter Kehlani, while Savage Garden's Darren Hayes is descending on the Bowl for a special solo show.
Kehlani
The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra's signature free concert series will also return, this time delivering a celebration of Tchaikovsky, a dedicated showcase of Melbourne artists and a performance of Prokofiev's Carmina Burana.
The much-loved dance tunes-meets-classical music mash-up that is Synthony is back with a new show on February 17, paying homage to the past three decades of club sounds with tracks by Disclosure, Eric Prydz, Flume, Calvin Harris and more.
Midsumma Extravaganza, by Suzanne Balding
And on January 21, comedian Joel Creasey and RuPaul's Drag Race Down Under legend Kween Kong will host the star-studded queer fiesta known as Midsumma Extravaganza. Taking the stage for this huge night of fun, you'll catch comedians including Nina Oyama, Rhys Nicholson and Scout Boxall, as well as a sparkling cast of musical talent such as Courtney Act, Tina Del Twist, Kira Puru and Dolly Diamond.
There'll also be a riotous tribute to the late drag icon Miss Candee, featuring an ensemble of 22 drag artists recreating the star's best-loved moments and songs.
MSO's 'Carmina Burana', by Mark Gambino
Live at the Bowl returns to the Sidney Myer Music Bowl from Wednesday, January 4–Saturday, March 11. To check out the full program of events and nab tickets, head to the Arts Centre Melbourne website.
Top Image: Ian Laidlaw