Monash University Performing Arts Centres (MPAC) is thrilled to announce the launch of its 2025 program, with a strong emphasis on First Nations programming. Curated by MPAC’s Senior Producer First Nations, proud Gunditjmara man Tom Molyneux — the season showcases world-class live music, dance, circus, documentary, and art, all aimed at amplifying First Nations voices and stories
The program opens with THE WET, an exhilarating circus performance from Gimuy (Cairns), and continues with extraordinary works that celebrate cultural expression, both local and international. Other highlights include Marrow by Australian Dance Theatre, Yorta Yorta double-bassist Allara as part of the Sundays in the Sound Gallery series, and Sayes Arares, an immersive documentary experience from Papua New Guinea.
To encourage participation and engagement MPAC offers MobTix pricing. This initiative supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities by offering discounted tickets to those who identify as First Nations and are recognised by their community. As Tom Molyneux explains, “MPAC’s 2025 Season brings together a constellation of First Nations artists across a diverse array of artforms and cultural contexts, both from here and abroad. We couldn’t be more excited to host them and share their creativity with our audiences.”
THE WET – 21-22 March
One of the most highly anticipated performances of the season, THE WET by Circa Cairns brings a bold and transformative First Nations-led circus ensemble to the MPAC stage. This stunning acrobatic show created on Country across Far North Queensland, invites audiences on a journey through the landscape and culture of the wet tropics. Conceived by Wakka Wakka artist Harley Mann, THE WET draws deeply on ancient stories and the enduring strength of Indigenous culture. With a powerful blend of contemporary circus and storytelling, THE WET is set to thrill audiences of all ages, connecting them to Country and showcasing circus as a dynamic art form. “THE WET is a celebration of First Nations culture and a remarkable exploration of contemporary circus,” said Mann. “It’s a journey through the land, the stories, and the people of Far North Queensland.”
Marrow – 6 June
Marrow, by Australian Dance Theatre, sits part-way between rave and ritual, tearing up the falsehoods of the past in a choreographic reckoning of Australian identity. Created by Daniel Riley, ADT’s first First Nations Artistic Director, in collaboration with Kaurna/Ngarrindjeri Elder Uncle Moogy Sumner AM, composer James Howard (SAVAGE), Matthew Adey (THE HUM), and designer Ailsa Patterson (Tracker), Marrow is a muscular, smoke-filled work that challenges dominant cultural narratives. This evocative piece was created in the wake of the failed Voice referendum and expresses the frustration, unease, and surprise felt by many in the community while offering a sense of hope for the future. Smoke becomes a seventh dancer in the performance, curling and bending at the ensemble’s will through movement and handheld smoke machines.
Allara – 6 July
Award-winning Yorta Yorta musician Allara brings her innovative and culturally-rooted artistry to the Sundays in the Sound Gallery series. Using the double bass and sound samples from Country, Allara weaves a transformative soundscape addressing Blak justice and sovereignty. A recipient of the Archie Roach Foundation Award for Emerging Talent, Allara’s music blends innovation with cultural tradition, inspired by mentorship from Songwomen such as Dr Lou Bennett AM and Deborah Cheetham AO.
Sayes Arares – 16 – 19 September
Sayes Arares is a poetic multichannel visual and sonic documentary that transports audiences to the Middle Sepik region of Papua New Guinea. This immersive experience reveals the Sayes Arares songs, an ancestral belief system expressed through the mambu (bamboo) flutes.Developed by musicians Gaius Wapi, Pius Wasi, Joachim Mamambi, and David Bridie, alongside video artist Keith Deverell and artists from Changriman Village, Sayes Arares is a rare glimpse into a deeply rooted cultural tradition. The installation will be open for audiences to explore freely during the day, with special artist-led events to be announced.
More to be announced soon—stay tuned for additional First Nations programming throughout the year.
Also coming up at MPAC:
Arcadia Wind with Paavali Jumppanen – 6 April
The Sundays in the Sound Galleries series kicks off with a performance by Arcadia Winds and Finnish virtuoso Paavali Jumppanen. Celebrated for their innovative approach to wind music, Arcadia Winds will perform a program that highlights their commitment to new Australian music. Jumppanen, known for his breathtaking versatility and mastery of contemporary music, will bring his dynamic touch to this performance. The concert is a must-see for classical music lovers, offering an intimate and immersive experience in the 130-seat David Li Sound Gallery.
Tickets are now on sale at monash.edu/mpac
