It’s Chapel Street – but not as you know it. Across ten days and nights in July, Melbourne’s iconic Chapel Street will transform into Provocaré – a festival of the arts that no other shopping district in Australia has ever dared to stage.
Leap into a provocative world of music, theatre and mind-altering art. Featuring world-renowned acts and artists performing across the entire precinct and taking the diverse day and intriguing after-dark world of Chapel Street to an unexpected new level.
Each night from 7pm, the throbbing heart of the festival will burn bright, a spectacular marquee assembled atop a secret rooftop location. Mistress of Ceremonies, Art Simone will reign supreme as she introduces astounding cabaret and world class acts that have honed their performances for a discerning Melbourne audience.
And during the day, catch roving performances throughout the precinct, intriguing installations on the street, as well as an internationally acclaimed artist who will transform a building’s facade into a mural that springs to life, thanks to the wonders of virtual reality.
Chapel Street’s top chefs have also been briefed and will share their own unique vision of Provocaré. Tastebuds will titillated with a smorgasbord of enticing events, all designed to challenge your senses.
“Melbourne is without doubt, Australia’s style and cultural capital,” said John Lotton, President of Chapel Street Precinct Association. “As the city’s premiere shopping precinct, we wanted to stage an event which was the embodiment of the area’s rich and flavourful history. We are ready to push boundaries and prove once and for all we are streets ahead of soulless shopping malls.”
“We are celebrating Chapel Street’s unique culture with an arts program that will provoke, arouse and challenge the senses. It’s been 15 years since Chapel Street had any kind of celebration it could call its own; Provocaré will shine a warming light on winter’s darkest, coldest month, enticing people from their warm abodes.”
The Provocaré: Festival of the Arts runs 20 – 30 July 2017. Full program to be announced soon. For more information, visit: www.provocare.com.au for details.
Image: Moira Finucane (supplied)