What Matters has been revealed as the theme for the 2020 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras and it promises to be bigger and bolder than ever. The theme builds on the legacy of Mardi Gras – a platform for activism, encouraging the community to think about creating a more inclusive future.
“This year we celebrate those at the forefront of the fight for equality. From ground-breaking queer artists to trailblazing thought leaders, Mardi Gras 2020 is an opportunity to visit the next destinations on our journey of diversity, inclusion and social justice,” says Mardi Gras Arts Interim CEO, Grant Lowe.
Mark it on your calendars! Friday 14 February 2020 is when the festivities kick off, with a diverse program of events running until Sunday 1 March 2020. They’ll be dazzling dance parties, top-tier theatre, music, world-class workshops and family-focused fun, with the iconic Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade taking place on Saturday 29 February, 2020.
The post-Mardi Gras Parade celebrations will continue with the iconic Mardi Gras Party happening at the Hordern Pavilion with the electrifying Dua Lipa headlining. The pavillion and its surrounding areas will be transformed into a brand-new adult playland with the party starting at 11pm – 8am. Fourth release tickets are on sale now.
There’s a supersized program on offer including the pre-eminent vogue ball, Sissy Ball and iconic festival classics such as Fair Day and Laneway, the traditional closing event of Mardi Gras. There’s no shortage of thought-provoking workshops and community events, with Queer Thinking taking over the Seymour Centre in Chippendale for a weekend of workshops, panels and in-conversations.
Check out queer bangers at Homage – also at the Seymour Centre – play tribute to favourite queer artists and perform covers of the songs that helped shape and define LGBTQI+ communities. You’ll hear covers from favourites including George Michael, Janelle Monae, Anohni, Ani Di Franco, Electric Fields, Elton John, Courtney Barnett and Frank Ocean.
For all LGBTQI+ young people and their friends aged 13 to 19 (inclusive) is the fabulous Minus18 Queer Formal event on Friday 21 February. It’s gloriously free and an unforgettable night of live music, lip-sync battles, bio-glitter, dancing, glamour stations, activations, dinner, dessert and more. The event is a completely drug, alcohol and smoke-free zone and is held at the UNSW Roundhouse.
The festival is jam packed with 14 days of solid entertainment featuring a wild mix of queer performance, theatre, music, dance, circus and cabaret you don’t want to miss, so check out the full program at the Festival Hub.