MELT: Festival of Queer Arts and Culture has raised the curtain on another program of spectacular events, dazzling performances and provocative discussions running at the Brisbane Powerhouse from 28 June to 7 July. The 10-day boasts a packed program designed to celebrate LGBTIQ+ arts and culture and promote visibility and inclusivity among the community. Close to 35 productions, exhibitions and events will take place over the course of the event.
Guest Director Emily Gilhome said MELT would again roll out the rainbow carpet to welcome everyone, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, age, ethnicity, ability and artistic interest. “We’ve worked really hard this year to produce a program that represents all segments of the LGBTIQ+ arts community,” Gilhome said. “This year’s festival also offers incredible diversity across its content so we’re seeing outrageous cabaret, over the top comedy, and a bigger and better MELT Beauty Pageant, sitting alongside deeply introspective visual art exhibitions, though-provoking panels, and powerful first-person pieces.”
Highlights include international cabaret superstar Reuben Kaye showcasing his signature blend of storytelling and gilded song in One Night Only!; Australian cabaret queen Dolly Diamond bringing classic television game show Bl*nkety Bl*nks to the stage; and the MELT Comedy Gala pairing queer comedy legends with emerging comedians for a night of non-stop laughs.
Brisbane Powerhouse Artistic Director Kris Stewart said MELT is an annual invitation to celebrate Brisbane’s wonderfully diverse queer communities and its guest list was growing each year.
“Brisbane Powerhouse has been a home for the LGBTIQ+ community since we opened our doors, so it’s been brilliant to watch MELT thrive, attracting more than 8500 attendees in 2018. MELT’s 2019 program is a celebration of love, pride, humour, humanity and rebellion but above all, it’s one of acceptance and inclusivity,” Stewart says.
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