The Wilds 2022

Overview

It has played host to a staggering array of gigs and been the backdrop for countless different live music memories, but we reckon you've never seen the Sidney Myer Music Bowl quite like this.

From Wednesday, June 1–Sunday, June 19, citywide arts festival Rising will see the iconic precinct transformed into a multi-sensory supernatural forest, inviting punters to immerse themselves in a captivating fusion of ice, art, sound and light.

Held Tuesday to Sunday throughout the festival's duration (and a little beyond), The Wilds is set to deliver an interactive feast for all the senses. Traipse through its bamboo structures, marvel at large-scale inflatable sculptures and mesmerising video works, and trip yourself out through mazes of mirrored illusions. All while bathing in the sonic delights of sound artists Mark Mitchell and Pascal Babare, plus vinyl tunes from the 1800 Lasagne DJs.

In a nod to winter's past, the stage itself will once again become a working ice-skating rink (yes, that really was a thing), where visitors can glide around to 80s and 90s tunes sung by a real choir. And when the appetite's piqued, you'll find a slew of pop-ups serving a menu of snacks and bevs to enjoy fireside, under the stars. Expect treats from Smith & Daughters, 1800 Lasagne, San Telmo and Hoy Pinoy, alongside three special dessert collaborations by Piccolina. Pop-up atrium bistro The Lighthouse is making a comeback, too.

Yep, it's quite the lineup — organisers are recommending you set aside at least 90 minutes in order to properly experience the whole thing. General entry to The Wilds will set you back $12–22, with tickets to Rinky Dink and The Lighthouse available to add on.

Eugene Hyland

Images: Eugene Hyland