Melbourne Festival: Editor's Picks

Arts and Culture Editor Maxim Boon has poured over this year's program of cultural delights. Here are his top tips of the best from the fest.

Les Tambours De Feu

Ever wondered what would happen if you strapped a bunch of fireworks to a percussion ensemble? Well, wonder no more. Basque-based pyro-freaks Deabru Beltzak deliver a literally high octane spectacle where beats rock and sparks fly.
When & Where: 6 - 8 Oct, Federation Square, 8.30pm

Haircuts by Children

There's very little blather to navigate with this surreally uplifting event: it does exactly what it says on the tin. Sit down and let a ten-year-old give you a trim and in addition to a smart new do you'll also get an insight into the power of empowering youth.
When & Where: 15 & 16 and 22 & 23 Oct, Stonnington Salon, CBD Salon

The Echo of the Shadow

Immersive productions are on the bleeding edge of contemporary theatre practice and Spanish company Teatro De Los Sentidos are among the most experienced pioneers. Just one person at a time can enter this labyrinthine dreamscape making each individual experience utterly bespoke.
When & Where: 6 - 23 Oct, ACMI

The Money

Part game show, part social experiment, British theatre-makers Kaleider are giving their audiences a tonne of cash. There's just one catch: the decision on how to spend it must be unanimous. This show pitting altruism against personal gain has been a hit worldwide.
When & Where: 6 - 23 Oct, Prahran Town Hall & Parliament of Victoria & Footscray Townhall

Dance

Vertical Influences

If you think figure skating is all sequins, spandex and fake tan, this show might change your mind. Canadian ice dancers La Patin Libre carve up the ice with their adrenaline-pumping athleticism and the results are breathtaking.
Where & When: 15 - 22 Oct, O'Brien Group Arena

The Dark Chorus

Lucy Guerin is one of Australia's finest choreographers. This world premiere performance, exploring the interplay between light and shadow, is a must-see opportunity to experience the achingly poetic movement of her dance.
When & Where: 6 - 12 Oct, Meat Market

La Belle Et La Bete

The American master of minimalism, Philip Glass, is celebrated for his film scores including The Truman Show and The Hours. Performing with his talented ensemble, hear his response to Jean Cocteau's 1946 screen adaptation of a tale as old as time: Beauty And The Beast.
When & Where: 7 & 8 Oct, Melbourne Recital Centre

David Bowie: Nothing Has Changed

The world was left reeling earlier this year when the visionary pop-savant David Bowie passed away. There have been tributes aplenty to this Star Man's genius, but this epic orchestral celebration by the MSO is on a scale fitting Bowie's titanic legacy.
When & Where: 15 - 17 Oct, Hamer Hall