Milo Hartill, a multi-talented entertainer, captivated audiences at the launch of the 2026 Midsumma Festival program. Known for their vibrant personality and sharp wit, Hartill showcased their unique blend of comedy and advocacy, affirming their position as a significant voice in the arts. The festival, set to take place across various venues in Melbourne throughout January and February, will feature Hartill prominently, including their acclaimed show, Black, Fat & F**gy.
During the launch, Hartill delivered a powerful performance that resonated deeply with attendees. Reflecting on their journey, Hartill remarked that the festival has come full circle for them; their first paid gig was at Midsumma in 2020. Now, they are integral to the festival’s diverse programming, which includes performances on the main stage at Carnival on January 18 and at FREAK OUT! The Afterparty.
The title of Hartill’s show, Black, Fat & F**gy, was born from a candid conversation among friends about the challenges performers face due to their identities. Hartill explained, “What – like being Black, fat and faggy?” This phrase quickly evolved into a slogan that captures the essence of their work. Their performances aim to challenge stereotypes while celebrating queer joy and advocating for fat liberation and racial equality.
Hartill’s motivation for creating BFF stems from personal experiences with racism in the arts. They highlight that systemic discrimination is deeply embedded in the industry. Rather than allowing these experiences to discourage them, Hartill transformed pain into a message of joy and resilience. They stated, “I really just want people to be able to walk away and see that… being Black, fat and faggy isn’t doom and gloom.”
The show has resonated with audiences nationwide, sparking impactful conversations about representation. After one performance, a group of LGBTQIA+ African-Australian teenagers approached Hartill, sharing how accurately they felt represented for the first time. Such moments inspire Hartill to continue pushing boundaries and challenging societal norms through their artistry.
In addition to addressing serious issues such as racism, homophobia, and body image, Hartill aims to use humor as a vehicle for change. They assert that laughter can be a powerful form of resistance against an unjust system. “I really hope people can reckon with their preconceived ideas of Black, fat and gay people [and] hopefully dismantle some of them,” they said.
The Midsumma Festival, known for its celebration of queer culture, provides a platform for Hartill’s mission. The extensive program includes an array of events that reflect themes of resistance, joy, and community solidarity.
Beyond the festival, Hartill continues to explore new creative avenues. They are currently developing their next show and hint at upcoming projects in the sexual wellness space. With a focus on fashion, Hartill aims to promote accessibility and bold self-expression. “Being hot that’s accessible, but also cunty,” they quipped, showcasing their signature blend of humor and confidence.
Milo Hartill’s work embodies a commitment to uplifting voices and challenging societal norms, making them a vital figure in contemporary performance art. As the Midsumma Festival approaches, audiences can look forward to engaging with Hartill’s powerful messages of joy, identity, and resilience.
