Just as the holiday buzz begins to fade and the temperatures begin to soar, Sydneysiders are getting ready for one of the most exciting events of the year, Sydney Festival. From January 5th - 29th, the streets will come alive with performances, art and music. From cabaret to contemporary art commissions, Sydney Festival 2023 boasts some of the most boundary-pushing events yet. Woven Threads is at its core a creative endeavour - one that uses art and imagination to broaden the minds of all Australians. The creative arts play a pivotal roll in bringing social advancements. In recognition of this, artists or arts workers can apply for an Arts Pass to access discounted tickets. Read on to learn about how to get involved!
The Festival’s events are spread out all across Greater Sydney, so audiences from all over can rest assured that they don’t have to face hours in traffic or on public transport to get involved. Kicks Tenpin Bowling Alley in Parramatta has been reimagined as the stage for Guttered, a dance-theatre piece that explores the treatment of people with disabilities. The cast is comprised of actors with disabilities and the performance is immersive and family-friendly. You can even have a go at getting a strike after the performance.
Not sure how to celebrate Lunar New Year? Head down to Parramatta Park to join the Sydney Symphony Orchestra as they light up the night with their Lunar New Year-inspired music for Sydney Symphony Under the Stars. Be sure to stick around for the finale, which features a music-fuelled fireworks display. Whether you’re a Western Sydney local or travelling to join in on the Lunar New Year festivities, don’t miss out on this free event. Find out more about the Sydney Festival in Western Sydney here.
Won’t be in Sydney this January but don’t want to miss out on the fun? Sydney Festival offers At Home events and live streams including lectures, documentaries and conversations between artists. If you’re after an interactive art experience, head to the city to see Cupid’s Koi Garden, a six-metre-tall immersive water-play installation to ease the summer heat. Created by Melbourne-based art and technology studio ENESS, this playful installation invites visitors to splash around and interact with the multi-sensory features of the work.
Sydney Festival has been foregrounding Sydney’s art and music culture since 1977, and this year is no exception. The Festival is more accessible than ever, with plenty of free events. There is something for everyone this year, so keep an eye out for the program and don’t miss out on an art and music-filled January!