Melbourne is set to come alive with the vibrant energy of YIRRAMBOI, the city’s premier First Nations arts festival, as it returns for its fifth iteration from 1 to 11 May 2025. This year’s festival, the most ambitious yet, explores four powerful themes—Legacy, Joy, Reclamation, and Akin—through a groundbreaking program of 180 performances and events across 40 venues.
With a record 400 First Nations creatives taking part, YIRRAMBOI promises to be a feast of artistic expression, showcasing the richness and diversity of Indigenous cultures from Australia and beyond.
“We are honoured to have inherited the legacy of YIRRAMBOI and to be trusted as the caretakers of such a powerful platform,” said Co-Lead J-Maine Beezley (Wakka Wakka/Kabi Kabi). “
The spirit of the festival comes from 4,000 generations of cultural knowledge and over 230 years of resilience.”
Co-Lead Sherene Stewart (Taungurung/Filipino) added, “The 2025 program is evolutionary, explorative, and deeply rooted in purpose. It amplifies the voices of now, presented in unwavering truth, and creates a space where old stories awaken and new narratives are forged.”
Highlights of the festival include banj ba walert: water and possum, a world premiere celebrating the revival of possum skin drumming and water dance traditions led by Wurundjeri Elder Aunty Vicki Nicholson-Brown and Stacie Piper.
Meanwhile, Table for 6, please! pays tribute to the trailblazing women who have shaped the stage, featuring a star-studded cast including Kylie Belling, Rachael Maza, and Rhoda Roberts.
For those seeking joy, Mabu Mabu offers a unique blend of Native Torres Strait Islander cuisine and drag performances at their Bottomless Drag Brunch and Sunday Comedy Roast. Meanwhile, Tina – A Tropical Love Story brings the legendary Tina Turner to life through a dazzling cabaret performance by Ben Graetz (Miss Ellaneous).
Reclamation takes centre stage with Blak to the Future, an immersive installation reflecting on the history of Blak art in Narrm, and The Black Woman of Gippsland, a gripping exploration of Victoria’s silenced histories. Families can enjoy ENOKi’s Wonderland, a creative hub for kids, or join the Bubup’s First Rave! for a fun-filled dance party on Mother’s Day.
Cross-cultural collaborations also shine, with We Are the Land We Walk Upon bringing together Australian and Canadian First Nations artists to celebrate shared connections to Country. Legendary Cree-Saulteaux Métis artist Margo Kane returns with There’s Something I’ve Been Meaning to Tell You…, a thought-provoking theatre work that asks profound questions about identity and belonging.
“YIRRAMBOI is an established mainstay of the cultural landscape on this ancient continent,” said Aboriginal Melbourne portfolio head Dr. Olivia Ball. “With possibly the most exciting program yet, do not miss it!”
Tickets for the full YIRRAMBOI 2025 program are now available at yirramboi.com.au/program. Don’t miss this unforgettable celebration of First Nations art, culture, and storytelling. Change is now—be part of it.
