C&G What’s On: White Night
From sunset to sunrise on the 21st of February, the city of Melbourne will come alive thanks to White Night, one of Australia’s most popular cultural events inspired by the Nuit Blanche movement. With a programme packed full of great visual art, illuminations, music, food, theatre, sport, fashion, film and design events, today on the C&G blog, we’ve sifted through the ample schedule to bring you four unmissable White Night events.
The banks of the Yarra will be transformed into Little India thanks to Sita’s Garden. Stretching down to Birrarung Marr, the event will feature a glowing lotus pond, projected scenes from bustling Indian streets and a themed and floating stage that will host performances from Bollywood to Bhangra and Australian/Indian collaborations. Visitors will also be treated to performances from some very special guest artists, as well as delicious Indian street food and a sun salutation sequence to welcome the rising sun.
Jump down the rabbit hole back to 1903, with a rare screening of a vintage Alice In Wonderland that at 12 minutes was then the longest film produced in Britain. As a result it was not suitable for all film showings and was instead sold scene by scene. See the film in all its glory at ACMI during White Night in the Wonderland Precinct – you’d be mad not to! If you enjoy the wonderful world of Alice, head to the State Library for the 360-degree sensory projection of Eat Me, created by renowned French artists Antoine + Manuel. Using 3D mapping techniques, animation and stage design, the Library’s dome will be transformed into a whimsical, abstract dreamscape inspired by Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.
Stick around Wonderland to see the various illuminations and projections that have become a favourite feature of White Night since its inception two years ago. Explore the area between Russell and Elizabeth streets to catch the Wonderland projections, which reinterpret Melbourne landmarks, lighting them up with creativity and colour and encompassing whole streetscapes.
If the crowds get too much, escape to The Forum for hours of jazz music to please the ears and soothe the soul. From Movement 9, one of Melbourne’s best young ensembles, to The Cairo Club Orchestra who’ll transport you back to the glory days of the 1920’s and ‘30s, get into the swing and dance all night long!
With crowds expected to top last year’s records, it’s important to plan your transport and even itinerary ahead of time to ensure the best White night experience. Chisholm and Gamon recommend setting up a My Night account to save your favourite events and share them with friends and family. To have a fun evening, check out essential info while you’re enjoying the event, ensuring that the night runs smoothly and you’re aware of any updates.