Geelong Arts Centre is set to captivate audiences in a Melbourne Fringe 2024 encore with two standout performances, both premiering on 25 & 26 October.
Wayfinder and Tash York’s Happy Hour may differ greatly in style and substance, but each offers a compelling glimpse into the diverse landscape of contemporary performance art.
Wayfinder by Dancenorth Australia stands as a testament to the power of multidisciplinary collaboration. This production, directed by Amber Haines and Kyle Page, merges dance, music, and visual art into a cohesive whole that is both striking and profound. The choreography is a dynamic interplay of movement and emotion, brought to life by the rhythmic beats of the Grammy-nominated Hiatus Kaiyote and sound artist Byron J. Scullin. Wayfinder featured as part of MONA FOMA 2024’s catalogue, where it left a lasting impression on audiences with its intense physicality and vibrant stage design.
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The visuals, crafted by Japanese-Australian artist Hiromi Tango, add a rich texture to the performance, creating a landscape that feels both expansive and intimate. The combination of lighting, sound, and movement draws the audience into a world where connection and human experience are central themes. Wayfinder invites viewers to reflect on these connections, exploring the ways in which we are all intertwined through shared experiences and emotions.
In contrast, Tash York’s Happy Hour offers a lighter, more playful take on the human condition. Drag superstar, Tash York, known for her sharp humour and engaging stage presence, leads a cabaret that is as entertaining as it is thought-provoking. The show is a celebration of life’s simpler pleasures, explored through music, storytelling, and audience interaction.
Tash York’s Happy Hour has won accolades across the country, including the Best Cabaret Weekly Award at Fringe World Perth 2023. York’s performance is a blend of comedy and music, backed by her ensemble, The Red Red Wines, who add a lively, boozy energy to the experience. Whether she’s taking a spin on an Aussie classic, Goon of Fortune, or diving into an improvised song, York keeps the audience engaged with her quick wit and infectious energy. The result is a show that is both a reflection on happiness and a celebration of the present.
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These two performances, though seemingly worlds apart, both embody the spirit of Melbourne Fringe, a festival that celebrates diversity, creativity, and the many ways in which art can move us.
Whether you’re in the mood for the immersive, thought-provoking experience of Wayfinder or the lively, laughter-filled Happy Hour with Tash York, Geelong Arts Centre’s offerings promise something for everyone. These performances are not just shows; they are experiences that invite you to engage, reflect, and celebrate the power of live theatre.
Tickets are on sale now. Collect tickets to Wayfinder here and Happy Hour here.
