Get ready for a wave of colour and diversity as the first-ever River Pride Parade prepares to set sail during Melt Open at the Brisbane Powerhouse in New Farm.
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Mark your calendars for the 9th of November 2024, because that's when Brisbane will witness its first-ever River Pride Parade!
Forget street marches. This celebration takes full advantage of our city's aquatic identity. Boats of all shapes and sizes, from kayaks to ferries, will weave their way down the river from William Jolly Bridge to the Brisbane Powerhouse in a dazzling display of LGBTQIA+ joy.
Photo Credit: Instagram/ Melt Open
Leading the charge will be none other than the iconic Courtney Act, a Brisbane-born talent who needs no introduction.
"Just imagine the magic as we come together on the water, amidst the beauty of the city," Act exclaims. Expect SPF-dusted fabulousness and a healthy dose of Act's signature wit as they guide the flotilla.
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Then, get ready for a kaleidoscope of colour! We're talking jet-skiing "dykes," waterskiing drag queens, and legendary queer boat parties.
The organisers, led by the ever-enthusiastic Pieta Farrell, are throwing the widest net possible, encouraging anyone with watercraft to join the parade. Landlubbers needn't despair as there'll be plenty of prime viewing spots along the riverbank to witness the spectacle.
Registrations for the River Pride Parade are open now, and it's the perfect way to cap off Melt Open's inaugural year. The entire festival runs from October 23rd to November 10th, offering a vibrant smorgasbord of LGBTQIA+ art and performance across Brisbane's diverse neighbourhoods, from the iconic Fortitude Valley to the up-and-coming Woolloongabba.
REGISTER HERE
Longtime residents know the pedigree behind Melt Open. It's the natural evolution of the powerhouse Melt Festival, a beloved fixture on the cultural calendar for eight years running.
Melt Open builds on that success, expanding beyond the Powerhouse walls, showcasing a wider array of artists and venues, and embracing an open-access spirit.
Photo Credit: Instagram/ Melt Open
But the River Pride Parade isn't the only program announcement that capitalises on Brisbane's unique geography. Remember the controversial nude photo installation by Spencer Tunick at last year's Melt Festival?
Photo Credit: Youtube/ Melt Open 2024
Well, get ready for round two! This time, the New York-based artist is setting his sights on the Story Bridge, transforming it into a human canvas for a brand-new photography project. If you're keen to shed your inhibitions and participate in this groundbreaking exploration of art, diversity, and the human body, registrations are still open for the October 27th installation, and there's no limit on the number of bodies!
So, mark your calendars, dust off your floaties or finest attire, and celebrate Brisbane like never before!
Read: New Farm’s Artistic Stint Along Brisbane River Comes with Shark Warning
Melt Open 2024 promises to be a landmark event, awash with creativity, inclusivity, and a healthy dose of Brisbane's signature riverside spirit. This is one event you won't want to miss!
Published Date 23-April-2024
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