Melbourne is once again igniting with excitement as the Now or Never festival kicks off today, promising a vibrant celebration of art, music, and innovation.
Building on its phenomenal debut last year, this ten-day extravaganza will draw upon the talents of over 250 local and international creatives, transforming some of the city’s most iconic venues into hubs of immersive digital art, cutting-edge performances, and thought-provoking talks.
With over 100 free and ticketed events on the lineup, Now or Never is not only a feast for the senses but also a magnet for an expected 200,000 visitors. The festival’s theme, ‘Look through the image’, encourages audiences to delve into the depths of the visual and auditory experiences presented, unearthing deeper meanings and exploring the layers of symbolism within.
Among the standout events, the Royal Exhibition Building (REB) will host an awe-inspiring series of large-scale music and audio-visual projection works over four nights. The stellar lineup includes the likes of Eartheater, Sandwell District, Erika De Casier, COUCOU CHLOE making her Australian debut, and renowned artists such as Ben Frost and Clark. The globally acclaimed Italian DJ Donato Dozzy will also take the stage, co-hosted by Untitled Group.
Adding to the mix, Marco Fusinato will bring his groundbreaking DESASTRES performance to the Docklands. This radical, live noise-guitar solo performance promises to synchronize sound with image in a mind-bending spectacle that premiered at the Venice Biennale 2022.
French artist Joanie Lemercier will enchant audiences with Constellations, a shimmering celestial formation that will reflect beautifully on the Yarra River after dark, thanks to Studio Lemercier’s vision.
The festival also features the world premiere of Plagiary by Alisdair Macindoe, a dance performance that evolves each night in front of the audience, guided by AI video from media artist Sam Mcgilp. With ten exceptional dancers improvising live, this performance is a testament to the synergy of technology and art.
Meanwhile, the arts collective SOFT CENTRE, in collaboration with SUPERMODEL, will present a thrilling three-day program at Trades Hall. Expect performances, keynotes, and workshops with talents like Mckenzie Wark and Tomomi Adachi.
Not to be missed, United Visual Artists (UVA) will present two major works, Silent Symphony and Present Shock II, at the REB. These pieces delve into celestial patterns and the concept of ‘post-truths’, with soundscapes designed by Ben Frost.
The festival’s diverse offerings continue with a unique collaboration between Melbourne’s own HTRK and British musician Actress, a captivating talk by Roxane Gay, and the Victorian premiere of Wuigada – Gagada, celebrating First Nations songman Kutcha Edwards.
For those intrigued by augmented reality, Peder Bjurman’s Slow Walker at Melbourne Museum Plaza offers a view of a colossal Tardigrade, while the evocative performance MOUNTAIN by Clark and Melanie Lane promises to be a visual feast.
Join renowned mycologist Merlin Sheldrake at Melbourne Museum for an insightful discussion on fungi, and don’t miss the interactive virtual walk on Country with April Phillips’ kajoo yannaga at ACMI.
The festival’s unique blend of innovation and tradition is proudly presented by the City of Melbourne, with support from partners such as Moon Dog Craft Brewery and Museums Victoria.
As Now or Never runs until August 31, tickets are selling fast. To be part of this extraordinary festival and explore the full program, visit the Now or Never website and secure your spot in one of the most dynamic cultural events of the year.