YIRRAMBOI 2023

Overview

Citywide First Nations festival YIRRAMBOI is back to 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, with events spanning everything from contemporary music and traditional dance to installations and stunning drag performances.

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.

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.

Maylene Yinarr, by Jacinta Keefe

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.

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.

BLAKOUT

Top image: Darren Gill.