Bat Massive combines art, ecology and live music as Grey-headed Flying Foxes emerge at Abbotsford Convent on 16 August.
Abbotsford Convent, Wildlife Victoria and 3RRR present Bat Massive, a unique nocturnal assembly exploring human and non-human experiences in exile. The event begins as dusk descends upon the Convent and the neighbouring colony of Grey-headed Flying Foxes fly out across the Birrarung to feed for the night.
Bat Massive moves through a special guided tour and bat crossing, punctuated by sound and light installations, live music performances, immersive projections, pop-up bars and feasts curated by community providores. The experience explores nomadic themes and the places people and animals always return to.
Bat Massive
- When: Saturday, 16 August, 5pm – 12am
- Where: Magdalen Laundry Industrial School, Abbotsford Convent
Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around Melbourne here.
View this post on Instagram
The event features live performances from Miles Brown, Simona Castricum, Nikodimos, Ai Yamamoto and Rita Bass. DJ sets will be provided by General Feelings, Mothafunk from 3RRR, Colette DJ Friday from PBS FM, DJ Luqman from Area 3000 and Gorani. Yandell Walton will create projections throughout the experience.
Additional experiences include bat canoe tours by Mappa Outdoor as an optional add-on and a mixed reality experience called Julaymba by Phoria. Runner Up will operate the bar while community food and beverage providores will supply refreshments throughout the evening.
A portion of ticket proceeds from Bat Massive will support Wildlife Victoria’s ongoing commitment to the rescue and protection of native bats. The collaboration between arts organisations and wildlife conservation demonstrates the intersection between cultural programming and environmental awareness.
The event takes advantage of the natural environment surrounding Abbotsford Convent, where the resident Grey-headed Flying Fox colony provides both inspiration and timing for the artistic programme. This integration of natural wildlife behaviour with human artistic expression creates a unique cultural experience that celebrates both urban ecology and creative practice.
For more information, head here.
