New for 2023, A Safe(R) Space, is an artistic exploration of intersectional identity between different facets of queer communities. Comprising 21 works, the program will consider what defines a safe space for artists and communities, uncovering a range of work from artists across the LGBTQIA+ spectrum and how artists come together to collaborate and create within a resourced environment.
Big Thick Energy
The brainchild of performance artist Demon Derriere, this show promotes body positivity and liberation through movement, creativity and community. Expect high energy entertainment over two days as 'thick, curvy performance artists' shake their stuff at the Malthouse Outdoor Stage from 10th - 11th February. Click here to buy tickets.
This year's Midsumma Extravaganza will feature Joel Creasey and RuPaul's Drag Race Down Under favourite Kween Kong as hosts, alongside such talent as comedians Nina Oyama, Rhys Nicholson and Scout Boxall, and musicians Courtney Act, Kira Puru, Mama Alto, Dolly Diamond, Tash York, Tina Del Twist, Jordan Raskopoulos and Steven Oliver. Midsumma Extravaganza takes place at Sidney Myer Music Bowl on 21st January. Tickets here.
The cream of comics from Melbourne's queer comedy scene will present four fabulous nights of comedy with a new line up each night from 27th – 29th January and 3rd February. The venue is Melbourne's new home for LGBTQIA+ communities, the Victorian Pride Centre. Click here to buy tickets.
Need a new fab outfit? Problem solved - just in time for Victoria's Pride. This FREE event takes place from 10am to 4pm on Saturday 11th February at the Victorian Pride Centre, 79-81 Fitzroy Street, St. Kilda. All ages welcome, and bookings are not required. Clothing contributions also welcome.
Get steamy under the stars as charismatic cabaret sensation Tash York hosts some of Australia's finest cabaret and circus performers. This 80 minute circus extravaganza takes place in a stunning open-air theatre in the Gasworks' precinct, Albert Park, on 23rd - 25th and 27th - 28th January. You can find tickets here.
The deliciously quirky Butterfly Club in the CBD is again hosting a number of shows this Midsumma, including Cherry. Audiences will be transported back to 2008 where 13-year-old Sarah is watching RAGE when Katy Perry's 'I Kissed A Girl' comes on and her obsession begins. Watch one woman's hilarious thank you card to her idol. Cherry plays from 8th - 11th February. Buy your tickets here.
Pride Of Our Footscray:
Pride of Our Footscray is offering 'something for absolutely everybody' in this year's program. This colourful and diverse venue includes in its program First Nations drag, all-star drag bingo, loads of queer comedy and even a steamy male dance revue. More details here.
Midsumma Festival 2023 runs from 21st January to 12th February.
- Midsumma Carnival: 22nd January, Alexandra Gardens, Melbourne
- Midsumma Pride March: 5th February, Fitzroy Street and Catani Gardens, St Kilda, and
- Victoria's Pride Street Party: 12th February, Smith St and Gertrude St, Fitzroy/Collingwood.
You'll find the full program and links to ticketing here.
