A series of secret pop-up shows are being held in Melbourne over the next two months, kicking off today with Tones and I performing in front of the Melbourne GPO.
Some of Australia’s biggest acts are performing pop-up gigs at iconic outdoor locations around Melbourne’s CBD, with the gigs only to be announced the day-of. Tones and I announced on her social medias she was busking in front of the Melbourne GPO today at 11am.
Surprise free performances, funded by the state government, will light up Melbourne’s city streets with singing superstar Tones And I launching the series, ARIA award winning breakthrough artist Budjerah and iconic duo Vika and Linda Bull also confirmed for the special sidewalk project, with more big names to appear in the CBD without notice.
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Appearing in undisclosed locations, the pop-up performances provide a perfect reason for Victorians to rediscover their beloved capital city, with performances scheduled in the lead up to Christmas and beyond.
The surprise street performances are scheduled into February – alongside a massive busking program of more than 700 live performances featuring emerging Victorian artists as part of an investment more than $20 million by the state government to kick start Victoria’s live music industry.
It’s part of a further $9 million On The Road Again initiative – which is supporting 300 events across regional and outer-suburban areas throughout 2022. Art lovers can also check out the Koorie Art Show at the Koorie Heritage Trust in Federation Square, Patricia Piccinini’s A Miracle Constantly Repeated at Flinders Street Station and Bark Ladies: Eleven Artists from Yirrkala, which opens at NGV International on Friday, 17 December.
Melbourne’s theatre district is also buzzing with productions including Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, Frozen and Moulin Rouge all running through the summer months. Arts Centre Melbourne is once again hosting its Live at the Bowl summer series of concerts, while Midsumma will burst into life in late January.
“Melbourne’s live music scene is an integral part of our city’s identity, and we’re thrilled to partner with the Victorian Government to reignite our iconic streets and laneways with performances by some of Australia’s most exciting musicians,” Melbourne Lord Mayor Sally Capp said.
“City workers, residents and visitors will reap the rewards of the spectacular line-up of free pop-up gigs – you could find yourself singing and dancing alongside your favourite artist on your lunchbreak or as you finish off your Christmas shopping.”
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