The Sydney Festival will celebrate its 50th anniversary with an exciting lineup of events, including a unique roller derby showcase at the Sydney Town Hall. Newly appointed festival director Kris Nelson announced the plans for the festival, scheduled to take place from January 8 to 25, 2026, featuring a diverse range of performances encompassing music, theatre, cabaret, dance, and visual art in various venues throughout the city.
Last year’s festival, curated by Olivia Ansell, attracted nearly 600,000 attendees, highlighting its popularity and community engagement. Nelson, who moved to Sydney about a year ago, expressed his enthusiasm for his inaugural programming, describing the experience as both exhilarating and rewarding.
Innovative Programming and Citywide Engagement
Nelson remarked on the whirlwind nature of developing the festival’s schedule, stating, “I’ve had the most fun and a few pinch-me moments. It’s been fast but I’ve been supported by an incredible team.” He emphasized the beauty of Sydney, noting the iconic nature of venues like the Sydney Opera House and the potential for creative events that can transform less traditional locations.
“My vision is to elevate places like Leichhardt to be as glamorous as the central business district,” he added. Nelson sees the festival as an opportunity for residents and visitors alike to traverse the city, envisioning attendees traveling from Blacktown to Bondi to experience the diverse offerings.
Roller Derby Comes to Life
Among the highlights of the festival will be Mama Does Derby, an immersive roller derby experience set to take place at the historic Sydney Town Hall. The venue has previously undergone transformations for other immersive works, serving as a beach and a tennis court in past festivals. Nelson promises that “it’s going to be something like you’ve never seen before,” hinting at an innovative approach to engaging audiences.
With the festival’s history of attracting large crowds and showcasing a broad spectrum of artistic expression, the upcoming 2026 event promises to be a landmark occasion for Sydney’s cultural landscape. As anticipation builds, the festival aims to foster a sense of community and celebration, bringing together diverse audiences for a memorable experience.
The announcement signals a new chapter for the Sydney Festival under Nelson’s direction, marking a significant milestone in the event’s storied history.
