Sydney is unquestionably Australia's most cosmopolitan city, and it has the nightlife and dining scene to prove it. Each summer, the city gears up for one of the biggest events in Sydney: The Sydney Festival.
This is no small, intimate concert or tiny art gallery - we're talking big numbers here. The Sydney Festival showcases more than 700 artists, 370 performances, 100 events and 30 venues each year. You might think that such a festival would be an expensive affair, but all-day tickets are just $25.
Sound too good to be true? Luckily, we're totally serious. Read on to find out more about this dynamic display of all of the best Sydney has to offer.
Dating back to 1977, the Sydney Festival has grown in popularity and reputation over the past three decades. The festival's founders initially started the event as a way to show off Sydney's diversity, cultural personality and energy. Performers, artists, entertainers and personalities such as Bjork, Brian Wilson, Elvis Costello, David Byrne, Vivienne Westwood, Al Green, Philip Glass, Batsheva Dance Company, Cate Blanchett, Theatre du Soleil, Robert Wilson and Grace Jones have all made appearances at the Sydney Festival over the years.
Head to the festival's numerous venues - including Parramatta and Festival Village - to see some of 2015's most highly anticipated performances, exhibitions and events.
Music lovers will have plenty of interesting performances to look forward to. Jessica Pratt, the buzzworthy San Francisco singer-songwriter, will grace the stage on 10 January, and is sure to attract a crowd. Far From Folsom will perform at Parramatta Gaol three times between 16 and 18 January, giving you plenty of chances to catch a show. Those who love the dramatic sounds of the pipe organ won't want to miss a performance by Anna Von Hausswolff. Other musicians who will be performing throughout the festival include Archie Roach, Tiny Ruins, Alela Diane, Christine Salem, The Experiment, Body/Head, Kid Congo and the Pink Monkey Birds, and Wye Oak.
"The Sydney Festival showcases more than 700 artists, 370 performances, 100 events and 30 venues each year."
Looking for a more theatrical performance? The festival has plenty of events in store for you as well. Attend a performance of "Masquerade" at the Sydney Opera House, or enjoy the whimsical romance of Kiss & Cry - an artistic piece that depicts a magical romance between two hands. Other theatrical performances include "Endings", "The Kitchen", "Have I No Mouth" and "Puncture". And finally, it wouldn't be the Sydney Festival without a few circus and cabaret performances. Enjoy the sounds of Timber!, Blak Cabaret, Fright or Flight, and Limbo.
Bringing the kids along on your trip to Sydney? There are a number of kid-friendly activities to take part in throughout the festival. Let your child take a turn in the Waterfall Swing, a unique contraption that allows swing-goers to whisk right under a waterfall.
Another sure bet is to head to Festival Village for family week between 20 and 15 January. Family Week will feature a number of activities perfect for the under-18 crowds, including performances such as "Dear Hope Street", "The Vegetable Plot" and "Higher Ground".
Whether you have kids in toe or not, you'll need a place to stay while you're visiting Sydney for the festival. If you're thinking about attending shows in Parramatta, your best bet will be to stay at the Mantra Parramatta. This convenient hotel is located right in the area's Central Business District, making it easy to access anything you need.
You might also consider booking a room at Mantra 2 Bond Street. Located right on the corner of George and Bond streets, this hotel is ideally placed for those hoping to attend the festival. Mantra on Kent, situated in the heart of the CBD, is another great option.
Photo supplied by Sydney Festival, taken by Jamie Williams.
Offering Executive Studio, One Two and Three Bedroom apartments, broadband internet...Read More »
Situated near Darling Harbour, Sydney Entertainment Centre, public transport on the doorstep...Read More »