Presented by Brisbane Powerhouse, MELT is an 18-day celebration of queer arts, culture, and community, spanning cabaret, comedy, drag, literature, and public art. From picnics to club nights, pageants, and street art, the festival offers something for everyone, encouraging Brisbane to embrace self-expression.
Here are just some of the events happening at MELT:
Reuben Kaye joins 1000 Voices
Cabaret’s Swarovski-studded comedic star Reuben Kaye will take the reins of MELT’s queer community choir, 1000 Voices, at Southbank Piazza. Beginning in the afternoon on 9 November, this event promises glamour, sharp wit, and audience participation, with surprise appearances from some of Australia’s favourite drag queens. The performance celebrates unity and creativity through music, blending comedy and vocal excellence in one unforgettable show.
Gerwyn Davies Shimmer, various locations announced
This year, visual artist Gerwyn Davies brings Shimmer to the streets of Brisbane. Running from 18 October, the vibrant outdoor exhibition unfolds across eight locations in Fortitude Valley, Newfarm, South Brisbane, and the CBD. The exhibition showcases photographic portraits created in collaboration with trans and gender-diverse young people from Open Doors Youth Service. Each portrait features handcrafted sculptural costumes that allow wearers to express themselves while maintaining anonymity. Shimmer celebrates chosen visibility, transforming everyday streets into a gallery of colour and empowerment.
In Conversation Series
MELT’s In Conversation series kicks off on 24 October, offering audiences the chance to hear unfiltered stories from some of Australia’s most powerful queer voices. Christian Hull sits down with podcaster Jonathon ‘J’Mo’ Moran to discuss identity, addiction, resilience, and radical self-care, blending humour and honesty. The series also features actor/writer Zoe Terakes discussing their debut book EROS, and writer Tim Pocock exploring his memoir The Truth Will Set You Free: Growing Up Gay in Opus Dei. Each conversation offers insight, courage, and connection, highlighting journeys from shame to liberation.
River Pride Picnic
Families can enjoy a joyous, inclusive celebration at New Farm Park on 8 November as three exciting events are added to River Pride Picnic. Drag Queen Storytime returns with three sessions at 12:30 pm, 1:10 pm, and 2:15 pm, bringing picture books to life with humour and heart. On the water, a thrilling Water Show begins at 1:15 pm, featuring jet skis, flyboard performers, and a water-ski flag line, culminating in a spectacular finale with rainbow pyrotechnics. Children and their grown-ups can also join the Play Date disco with pop duo Turtle and Sugar Rush, celebrating identity, body positivity, and self-expression through music and movement.
Hole-Mania 2 Meltdown Closing Night Party
For those seeking camp chaos, the closing night Meltdown party delivers on 8 November. Wrestling meets drag in Hole-Mania 2, hosted by Shandy and GoGo Bumhole, featuring outrageous body slams, face slaps, and sequins galore. This unforgettable spectacle promises a bold, high-energy finish to MELT 2025, combining performance art, drag, and sheer entertainment.
Drink & Drop at Vertigo
Thrill-seekers can also experience the festival at Vertigo rooftop bar at Brisbane Powerhouse. Running throughout October, Drink & Drop offers a 17-metre leap from the rooftop, after enjoying a drink and panoramic city views. Available for walk-ups only, this adrenaline-fueled experience is a fun, brief interlude for those looking to add a bit of excitement to their festival experience.
From soaring performances to family fun and thrilling hits, MELT Festival 2025 is a bold, inclusive celebration of queer culture and creativity. Whether you want to sing, dance, laugh, or simply marvel at the art around you, MELT promises to bring the city alive in glitter, colour, and joy.
MELT Festival 2025 runs from 22 October to 9 November across Brisbane/Magandjin. Tickets are on sale now, find out more here.