Step out of the shadows and into the phenomena of light – the central life force of our planet. From Mirning Choreographer Frances Rings and Goolarrgon Bard Visual Artist Darrell Sibosado comes, Illume, an iridescent new theatrical experience, drawing together music, visual arts and dance to explore the ways light has captivated and sustained Indigenous cultural existence for millennia.
Today, artificial light pollution disrupts ecosystems and obscures the dark night sky, devastating First Nations people’s connections to sky country and limiting their ability to share celestial knowledge and skylore. First Nations people stand on the precipice of the world under threat.
Frances and Darrell’s collaboration explores the awe of light, a bridge between the physical and spiritual worlds. It charts the impacts of light pollution in a climate emergency. Illume asks the urgent question: is the deep wisdom passed down from elders enough to illuminate a path forward from the shadows of a dark future?
3rd September, 2025
13th September, 2025
The venue is wheelchair accessible. An Assistive Hearing system is available. Assistance Animals are welcome in all areas of Arts Centre Melbourne and water bowls are available on request.
GETTING TO THE VENUE
BY CAR: The Arts Centre Melbourne Car Park entry and exit is via Kavanagh Street or Southbank Boulevard. Works continue throughout the Southbank precinct. Please ensure you plan ahead and allow additional time to reach the venue and be seated by the start time. If you arrive after the start time, you may not be admitted until a suitable break. The car park is a cash-free facility, so please make sure you have a valid credit or debit card before entering.
BY TRAIN: The closest train station to all venues is Flinders Street Station. Exit the station onto Swanston Street, turn your back on the city and walk across Princes Bridge.
BY TRAM: The tram routes that stop in front of Arts Centre Melbourne are: 1, 3, 3a, 5, 6, 16, 64, 67 and 72. This stop is number 14 – “Arts Precinct".
BY BICYCLE: Bicycle lanes run north and south along St Kilda Road. On-street bicycle hoops are available outside Hamer Hall and the Theatres Building (under the Spire).
Choreographer: Frances Rings & The Dancers of Bangarra Dance Theatre
Artistic & Cultural Collaborator: Darrell Sibosado
Set Designer: Charles Davis
Costume Designer: Elizabeth Gadsby
Lighting Designer: Damien Cooper
Composer: Brendon Boney
Cultural Consultant: Trevor Sampi
Illume is at Melbourne's Arts Centre Melbourne, Playhouse, which is located at 100 St Kilda Road, Southbank, Melbourne, 3000.
Illume tickets start at $69.
Check the top of this page for current availability and exclusive offers on Illume tickets on TodayTix.
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