Perth Festival has landed in Subiaco for your summer dose of arts and culture.
Australia’s longest-running arts festival is back, celebrating Perth, its people and its culture through an extraordinary program of otherworldly events.
This year, the spotlight in Subiaco is on Aboriginal artists who’ve made a phenomenal impact on Australia – and the world. From 16 February to 1 March, Subi will play host to two headline Perth Festival events at iconic venues Subiaco Arts Centre and the Regal Theatre. The two pair perfectly for an enriching night out, completed with dinner or drinks at one of Subi’s award-winning restaurants or trendy small bars.
Start your night at Subiaco Arts Centre for Middar Koora ba ye (16 February to 1 March), an exhibition of incredible photos, articles and recordings celebrating the most iconic moments of Middar Dance Group. Known for welcoming some of the world’s biggest stars to Noongar Boodjar – think KISS, Stevie Wonder and Harry Styles – Middar are a group with over 50 years of transformative performances under their belt. The photos tell an extraordinary story, but if you want the full experience, attend the exhibition from 5.30pm on Saturdays throughout the festival (Saturday 22 February and Saturday 1 March) to be treated to special live performances from the dancers, including appearances from some of the original members. There’s no magic quite like it. Tickets are free and more information can be found here.
Afterwards, make your way to the landmark Regal Theatre on the corner of Hay and Rokeby for Big Name, No Blankets (27 February to 1 March), an epic rock ‘n’ roll theatre show telling the remarkable story of Warumpi Band. Celebrating the journey of Sammy Tjapanangka Butcher and his brothers, who made history as the first rock ‘n’ roll band to sing in Aboriginal languages, this big-hearted story is packed with rockstar performances and iconic songs. Watch how they took anthems including ‘Blackfella/Whitefella’, ‘My Island Home’ and ‘Jailanguru Pakarnu’ from Central Australia to wild nights in the pub rock scene, touring the world with potent politics and prolific guitar riggs. Perfect for a date night or an adventure the whole family will love, this showstopping event can be booked here.
Of course, it would be remiss not to follow up your night of culture with a good hearty feed. You’ll be hungry from all that stomping and clapping, so why not book dinner at one of Subi’s best-loved institutions? From family-friendly pubs and bustling new breweries to elegant al fresco dining destinations, there’s something to suit every taste.
So, what are you waiting for? Discover your perfect Perth Festival experience now.
