The Gold Coast’s annual contemporary art event is called BLEACH*. On the Southern Gold Coast, it began as a modest peripheral event alongside the World Championship Tour Quiksilver Pro surfing tournament. Bleach* Surfing the Fringe started in 2012 as a prototype project with a $40,000 budget and drew 30,000 visitors over 16 days.
Its early success indicated the high demand for performing arts in the Gold Coast region, prompting the City of Gold Coast to commit to continuous financing and support. Now in its 12th year, the contemporary art festival returns for 11 days to highlight the city’s most vibrant and creative artists.
2023 BLEACH* Festival
The 2023 BLEACH* Festival will honour the city’s stunning landscape and stories. The 12th anniversary will take place from August 3 to August 13. It will take place at five locations: North Burleigh, Broadbeach Cultural Precinct, Gold Coast Botanical Gardens, Home of the Arts (HOTA), and Currumbin Valley, as well as other city-wide activations.
Here are some events you can attend to help you enjoy each day.
First Light – Heartland
Ed Hardy Park, The Esplanade North Burleigh
August 3
Head to Burleigh Beach to kick off the BLEACH* Festival. Heartland is a poignant blend of traditional songlines, poetry, and didgeridoo led by Kalkadunga native William Barton and violinist Véronique Serret.
Encounter Gold
Ed Hardy Park, The Esplanade North Burleigh
August 5 – 6
With this visual feast of movement, dance, and spoken word, discover the tenacious spirit of youth and the world they find themselves in. Watch in wonder as some of the country’s most significant artists meet on the same stage, directed by award-winning choreographer Emma Saunders.
Acoustic Life of Sheds
Various locations in Currumbin Valley
August 5 – 6
Drive down winding roads into the green Currumbin Valley, where this year’s musical extravaganza awaits. The intimate concerts in the old country shed reveal the stage’s hidden gems. This musical road trip is a genuine bucket list experience, with site-specific works performed in each location.
Live Music Stage
Ed Hardy Park, The Esplanade North Burleigh
August 4 – 6 and 11 – 13
On these dates, go to the best oceanfront club on the Gold Coast. Check out the excellent music program, including Gold Coast Music Awards nominees showcasing the best local talent. During the event, it is open from Friday to Sunday.
BLEACH* At North Burleigh
Ed Hardy Park, The Esplanade North Burleigh
August 4 – 6 and 11 – 13
The North Burleigh Hub has something for everyone, whether it’s getting involved in dance performances with the sand between your toes, learning how to create fire and play traditional drums, or listening to some of the Gold Coast’s top musicians in the sunshine, umbrellaed under the Norfolk pines. All of the programs at North Burleigh are family-friendly and free. However, some may require reservations.
Embers
Ed Hardy Park, The Esplanade North Burleigh
August 12 – 13
Aboriginal artist and renowned fire starter Rick Roser welcome families and children of all ages. Rick discusses traditional tactics in this interactive workshop. Before lighting fire, gather your friends and study the ancient method of string-making. Also, you can see his works in the National Gallery, the Queensland Art Gallery, and private collections.
Last Light – Tower Divas
Ed Hardy Park, The Esplanade North Burleigh
August 13
Why not see the Tower Divas’ bewitching sound during the exciting world premiere on the last day? Gambirra Illume, a Yolngu diva, Whaia, a Maori sonic weaver, and Sunny Kim, a Korean-born performer, combine forces for a soul-stirring concert.
Are you looking forward to the 2023 BLEACH* Festival? Plan and reserve early at the finest location.
Royal Palm Resort provides a memorable family holiday in the heart of the Southern Gold Coast. Our seaside accommodations include spacious two-, three-, and four-bedroom holiday apartments that are self-contained for your comfort. Book your festival accommodation in our Palm Beach Resort today!
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