In Partnership with Vivid LIVE
On an ordinary day, the Sydney Opera House feels larger than life. But when you add live music, lights, and a packed out crowd, it reaches an entirely new level. That’s exactly what happens every May, when the iconic building lights up for the contemporary music takeover, Vivid LIVE.
Part of Vivid Sydney, Australia’s largest festival of light, music and food, Vivid LIVE brings a spectacular selection of international and homegrown talent to the stage.
Running from May 23 to June 14, this year’s program is bigger than ever, pulling together soul-jazz collectives, electronic ensembles, post-punk bands and folk singer-songwriters for two weeks of unforgettable performances.
And the best part? It doesn’t matter what you’re into. With over 50 artists hitting the stage, there’s a show for every mood and taste.
At one end of the spectrum, Melbourne’s Surprise Chef will bring their funk-meets-jazz instrumentals to the stage, while the mysteriously masked singer-songwriter, Pale Jay, is set to deliver his signature smooth vocals alongside a string quartet in a one-of-a-kind show. Plus, there’s Velvet Trip to complete a lineup that leans hard into groove and feel.
For something more introspective, US singer-songwriter Jessica Pratt offers hazy, delicate folk, while 2024 ARIA Music Award winner Emily Wurramara’s blend of her native Anindilyakwa language and soulful voice brings a uniquely powerful perspective.
Then there’s Beth Gibbons, the legendary voice behind UK electronic band Portishead, who will bring her emotion-filled solo work to the stage. And one of the century’s most emotionally intense and beautiful voices, ANOHNI returns for two exclusive nights with the Johnsons, performing tracks from her 2023 album “My Back Was a Bridge for You to Cross” and highlights from her acclaimed catalogue. The shows mark the Johnsons’ final Australian performances.
Pat Metheny, a giant in the contemporary jazz guitar world, also returns to Sydney for a masterclass in improvisation. But if you’re chasing something that hits harder, the late-night program is where you’ll want to be.
dstreet, DUNJ, Barney Kato and their special guests, including English maestro of psychedelic trance Shackelton and Japan’s techno “trance but not trance” queen DJ MARIA. and more will light up the Opera House’s subterranean club space with euphoric, bass-heavy sets designed to dance into the early hours of the morning. Then there’s G2g and Station Model Violence channelling post-punk and delivering sets that are loud, fast and frayed in all the right ways.
What sets Vivid LIVE apart isn’t just the scale or variety of the line-up, it’s the way the Opera House itself becomes part of the experience. From the huge ceilings of the Concert Hall to the underground intimacy of the Studio, every space brings something different.
You don’t need to know every name on the bill to feel like you belong here. In fact, that’s kind of the point. Vivid LIVE at Sydney Opera House invites you to explore genres, performances and find a gig that surprises you.
See the full program and get your tickets now.