GARABARI by Joel Bray Dance

Garabari flips the usual theatre experience into an all-in dance gathering. Created with Wiradjuri Elders and community, it shares the Giilang – the story and song of how the Murrumbidgee River came to life.

Wiradjuri song and Byron Scullin’s driving electronic beats set the pace. Denni Francisco’s striking designs and Katie Sfetkidis’ immersive lighting turn the space into a vibrant dance floor. Audiences are invited to join the performers in call and response and simple movement, building to a collective finale full of energy and connection, a state of ecstasy.

First Nations people have long used dance and song to share knowledge and bring people together. Garabari carries this practice forward, showing how stories and language continue to live and evolve. Step onto the floor, feel the bass, and be part of a shared celebration of people and Country.

“An enlivening experience that celebrates our earth, our first peoples and everyone else in the freest way imaginable” — Limelight Magazine

Midsumma is Australia’s premier queer arts and cultural organisation, bringing together a diverse mix of LGBTQIA+ artists, performers, communities and audiences.

Midsumma Festival 2026 will open on Sunday 18 January and run to Sunday 8 February 2026.

Check out the full 2026 program here.

Find out what’s on at Meat Market.