BYRON BAY INTERNATIONAL SOLO ARTS FESTIVAL Byron Bay is poised to host a groundbreaking cultural event with the launch of the Byron Bay International Solo Arts Festival, coming in September, 2025 it will be the first of its kind in Australia. This vibrant new festival will celebrate the diverse art of solo performance, showcasing talent from both international and local artists across theatre, music, dance, circus, and experimental forms.
Currently in the funding application stage, the festival is planned as an annual event, scheduled around the September school holidays. Launching as a three-day festival, it will feature a rich program of solo performances inspired by world-renowned festivals in New York, Canada, India, and Moscow. |
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Let’s bring this vision to life. The surf’s up - and the waves we make today will create a lasting cultural tradition for Byron Bay tomorrow.
A defining aspect of the festival will be its focus on First Nations artists, with the opening day dedicated to showcasing the richness of Indigenous voices and storytelling traditions. This initiative seeks to foster cultural engagement and honour the deep heritage of Australia’s First Nations communities. Local artist Mitch King (Widjabul-Wiabul Yaegl) will serve as the First Nations Producer of the festival.
With a strong international influence, the festival will present a curated selection of solo works from around the globe, reinforcing Byron Bay’s reputation as a cultural and artistic destination. The program will include family-friendly shows, creating an inclusive atmosphere that invites all ages to celebrate the arts.
The festival will emphasise the development of local and regional talent, working closely with high schools and community groups. Young people under 25 will have the chance to participate in mentorships to create original work, while seniors 60+ will also be supported to share their stories through creative mentorships in scriptwriting, dance, music, and theatre-making. Two dedicated events will highlight 8-10 emerging young artists and 5-10 senior artists, each presenting 10-minute solo works. By 2026, two selected artists from these groups will have the opportunity to debut a full-length performance, ensuring the ongoing growth of local creative talent.
The Byron Bay International Solo Arts Festival balances an international scope with a local heart, fostering a community-focused and family-friendly environment. This initiative aligns with the goals of Regional Development Australia (RDA) Northern Rivers, promoting regional growth, economic development, and cultural vibrancy.
The festival’s long-term vision includes attracting producers, directors, and agents from the USA, Europe, and Asia, increasing global opportunities for Australian artists and elevating the Northern Rivers region as a premier arts destination.
For further information or to arrange an interview, please contact:
Dave Houston
Festival Director
0411 71 00 81
[email protected]
Mitch King
First Nations Producer
0403 273 097
[email protected]
With a strong international influence, the festival will present a curated selection of solo works from around the globe, reinforcing Byron Bay’s reputation as a cultural and artistic destination. The program will include family-friendly shows, creating an inclusive atmosphere that invites all ages to celebrate the arts.
The festival will emphasise the development of local and regional talent, working closely with high schools and community groups. Young people under 25 will have the chance to participate in mentorships to create original work, while seniors 60+ will also be supported to share their stories through creative mentorships in scriptwriting, dance, music, and theatre-making. Two dedicated events will highlight 8-10 emerging young artists and 5-10 senior artists, each presenting 10-minute solo works. By 2026, two selected artists from these groups will have the opportunity to debut a full-length performance, ensuring the ongoing growth of local creative talent.
The Byron Bay International Solo Arts Festival balances an international scope with a local heart, fostering a community-focused and family-friendly environment. This initiative aligns with the goals of Regional Development Australia (RDA) Northern Rivers, promoting regional growth, economic development, and cultural vibrancy.
The festival’s long-term vision includes attracting producers, directors, and agents from the USA, Europe, and Asia, increasing global opportunities for Australian artists and elevating the Northern Rivers region as a premier arts destination.
For further information or to arrange an interview, please contact:
Dave Houston
Festival Director
0411 71 00 81
[email protected]
Mitch King
First Nations Producer
0403 273 097
[email protected]