Melbourne Festival

As Australians, what are we afraid to say to each other? What truths are too painful to face? This month, the underground activists of Belarus Free Theatre — together with an ensemble of local artists — are urging us to confront some painful realities, writes Rose Johnstone.

As the 2018 Melbourne International Arts Festival opens this week, Stephen A Russell explores how immersive theatre will expose the city to the elements.

Art and sport imitate life in playwright Future D Fidel's semi-biographical portrait of a Congolese refugee fighting the demons of his past. Maxim Boon joins the 'Prize Fighter' in the ring.

Festival Director Jonathan Holloway described the work as “a complete feast for the eyes and ears,”

They say we can learn a lot from our elders. This show proves it.

"The lack of any fourth-wall is the X-factor that makes this production so phenomenally successful."

"From the outset, this is not your average show."

"Director Darcy Grant has said that GOM's goal was to create meaningful circus. That almost sounds like an oxymoron, but the results are undeniable."

"A mesmerising fusion of ancient history, traditional folk craft and 21st-century invention."

We need to change the subject, take a break, indulge in some rejuvenating joy, and get some perspective.