It’s been a stop-start couple of years for everyone, but when it comes to Melbourne’s RISING, you can’t help but feel sympathy for the organisers. Initially slated to start in 2020, right when the first national lockdowns were being discussed, the RISING team had to abandon their grand plans.
Fast forward to 2022, and RISING is back with a clear path with 225 events planned around Melbourne as part of the winter festival. RISING will run over 12 nights and will comprise 225 events, including 22 commissions, and 14 world premiers that are created by some of the 801 local and international artists using Melbourne as their canvas.
“In such tumultuous times, the privilege and necessity to gather, dance, sing and celebrate artistic expression is not lost on us,” said RISING Co-Artistic Directors, Hannah Fox and Gideon Obarzanek. “Melbourne is back and we’re over the moon.”
The Wilds will return after a one night stand in 2021, where Melbourne’s Sidney Myer Music Bowl will become indistinguishable from its normal presence as it’s transformed by artists such as Tin & Ed. Food at The Wilds will come together from Melbourne mainstays 1800-Lasagne, and Smith & Daughters as well as hosting pop-up kitchens with chefs such as David Moyle, Jo Barrett, and Matt Stone taking up residency.
“RISING will be a massive celebration of many of the things we love about Melbourne said Minister for Creative Industries Danny Pearson. “From edgy art to great food, awe-inspiring installations and hidden creative surprises. Showcasing the work of hundreds of local, national and international creatives, the festival is an invitation to rediscover the very best of Victoria’s culture and creativity.”
Melbourne’s mighty Yarra River hasn’t been forgotten. A giant laser beam will be shot down the Birrarung River at Princess Bridge in MONOCHORD, an audio-visual piece by artist Robin Fox.
Chinatown’s Golden Square will be transformed into an art car park, with three levels of art, performance, parades, and rooftop bars. Artists transforming the space include Paul Yore, Su Hui Yu, Scotty So, Tabita Rezaire, Jason Phu, and Atong Atem.
With 225 events taking place at the 2022 edition of RISING, it’s impossible to profile them all. You can see the entire program on the RISING website.
RISING: Melbourne will take place from Wednesday, 1 June until Sunday, 12 June. Tickets go on sale Friday, 25 March.
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