Leading Indigenous creatives set to feature at Sydney’s 2023 Fringe Festival

Phoebe Blogg
Phoebe Blogg Published August 5, 2023 at 9.00am (AWST)

Known as New South Wales' largest independent arts festival, the Sydney Fringe Festival will return to Sydney once again this September.

Reflecting on the culture and heart of the city, 2023's festival aims to celebrate all things Sydney.

From local community groups to well-known touring artists, the festival's primary aim is to support those who produce work all year round and compete with main stage events for publicity and large corporations for custom.

This advocacy for such groups is often displayed through supporting emerging artists, presenting established artists in the development of new works, promoting small to medium-sized venues and activating public spaces.

Boasting over 400 events and 12 festival hubs this year's festival will span across the month of September – kicking off on the 1st and finishing up on the 30th of the month.

From a special performance by renowned Australian band Rogue Traders to Fringe's first-ever Dance Hub – featuring proud Ngarrindjeri/Bungandidj man and choreographer Lewis Major – the 2023 schedule is looking anything but average.

"We are incredibly excited to present the full program for this year's Sydney Fringe Festival, which has shaped up to be one of our most dynamic and diverse," CEO and Festival Director Kerri Glasscock said.

"Now in my tenth year as Festival Director and CEO, I have seen our festival community continue to expand, explore new terrains and push boundaries with each iteration."

Coined as only the most electric and vibrant line-up of First Nations artists, the festival will also see talented creatives Brianna McCarthy and Peta-Joy Williams join Lewis Major, in presenting their work at Sydney Fringe.

Dragon Hearts rehearsal. (Image: supplied)

For proud Ngarrindjeri/Bungandidj man and choreographer Lewis Major, presenting at Fringe's first-ever Dance Hub is truly an honour.

Bringing his intimate one-to-one performance – named Lien – to Fringe's Dance Hub will see Major and one audience member, come together on an empty stage for a singular ten-minute encounter, never to be repeated.

Embodying the beauty of human connection and the power of shared moments.

Taking place at Sydney Dance Company's Neilson Studio, the performance will be performed over three days only from Thursday September 14 to Saturday September 16, between the hours of 2pm and 6pm.

"We can't wait for audiences to experience the innovative works as part of the festival-first Dance Hub," Ms Glasscock said.

Lien by Lewis Major rehearsal. (Image: supplied)

Wiradjuri artist Brianna McCarthy is also set to bring something special to the Sydney-based festival.

Playing at Riverside Theatres in Parramatta, McCarthy's solo show 'Dragon Hearts', is bound to boast a crowd.

Described as a 'magical retelling of the ancient mythology of dragons through shadow puppetry', ticketholders are left with only their imagination when it comes to what one may expect from the esteemed show.

Finishing up with interactive weaving workshops with Wiradjuri woman and artist Peta-Joy Williams, those attending this year's festival will be privy to watching, listening and engaging with a range of culturally talented creatives.

Dragon Hearts rehearsal. (Image: supplied)

From short films and comedy showcases to live performances, 2023's Sydney Fringe Festival is offering up a selection of noteworthy activities and attractions…no matter what style of music, art and entertainment attendees prefer.

"Taking over the city for an entire month, Fringe has something for everyone!," Ms Glasscock said.

Tickets are now on sale for all Sydney Fringe Festival Events.

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National Indigenous Times

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