RISING is a major cultural event for the Asia Pacific Region, created by a diverse team of local, national and international artists and curators. 

RISING will begin on the evening of the total lunar eclipse in May 2021. Interlocking circles of experience and connection will radiate through the night, as the city re-synchronises and is re-energised with public art, performance and music spanning the emerging and iconic, the epic and intimate.

The inaugural festival will take place 26 May – 6 June 2021 in the heart of Melbourne.

RISING, Melbourne's new festival of the night, is a major cultural event for the Asia Pacific Region created by a diverse team of local, national and international artists and curators. 

RISING will begin on the evening of the total lunar eclipse in May 2021. Interlocking circles of experience and connection will radiate through the night, as the city re-synchronises and is re-energised with public art, performance and music spanning the emerging and iconic, the epic and intimate.

The inaugural festival will take place 26 May – 6 June 2021.

RISING is a surge of art, music, performance and ceremony in the heart of the city: 26 May – 6 June 2021. 

# GENERAL

__Q. What is RISING?__

A. RISING is a surge of art, music, performance and ceremony in the heart of Melbourne... In other words, it’s a new festival in Victoria’s cultural calendar. RISING will begin on the evening of the total lunar eclipse 26 May and run until 6 June 2021.  

__Q. When will the program be announced?__

A. It’s here! [Check it out](https://rising.melbourne/festival-program). 

__Q. I’m not sure if RISING is for me. What kind of events will be in the program?__

A. RISING is for everyone. From visual art, installations, performance and live music; to unique food events, nude discos and mud wrestling theatre, we’ll have all kinds of experiences for you to enjoy whatever you’re into. 

__Q. Is the program family-friendly?__

A. Yep! We have a bunch of free and low-cost experiences for families to enjoy, including [Wandering Stars](/festival-program/wandering-stars) – a giant lantern installation on the Birrarung (Yarra) river, [Heavy Congress](/festival-program/heavy-congress) – a battle of the soundsystems at the Town Hall, and [The Wilds](/festival-program/the-wilds) – ice skating, a bamboo forest and a giant rotating moon. You can check out more family-friendly events [here](https://rising.melbourne/festival-program) using the Experience filter.

__Q. How late do RISING events go?__

A. All night, baby. Well, a few do. Most of the program kicks off at sunset each night (about 5PM) and goes into the night. Dance and theatre shows may also have matinees. Take a look at our [schedule](https://rising.melbourne/schedule) for the full picture. 

__Q. What happened to the Melbourne International Arts Festival and White Night Melbourne?__

A. The sun has set on those two events, but a new moon is RISING.

__Q. It runs over National Reconciliation Week. Do you plan on tying in Reconciliation Week into this program?__

A. Yes, absolutely! Working with First Peoples artists and community is a key focus area for RISING. We are working closely with these groups to develop programming and experiences that amplify the themes and intentions of Reconciliation Week during the festival.

__Q. I thought the new festival was happening in 2020?__

A. That was the plan but plans change in a pandemic. We were fortunate to be able to postpone the inaugural festival until May 2021.

__Q. Who is curating the festival?__

A. Hannah Fox and Gideon Obarzanek are RISING’s co-Artistic Directors, and lead a diverse team of national and international arts professionals in programming the festival.

__Q. I would like to volunteer, intern or work for RISING. How do I apply?__

A. Thank you for your interest! We advertise employment opportunities on our [Jobs](https://rising.melbourne/jobs) page and will be advertising any volunteering opportunities on our social channels (follow us [here](https://www.facebook.com/risingmelb/), [here](https://www.linkedin.com/company/rising-melbourne), [here](https://twitter.com/risingmelbourne) and [here](https://www.instagram.com/rising.melbourne/)) and via email ([subscribe here](https://rising.melbourne/subscribe)).

# COVID-19

__Q. How is RISING being COVID-Safe?__

A. We are working closely with the Victorian Government and the Department of Health to deliver a COVID-Safe event for everyone. The [COVID-Safe page](https://rising.melbourne/covid-safe) has specifics on what we’re doing.

__Q. How are you keeping venues COVID-Safe?__

A. We are working closely with the Victorian Government and the Department of Health to deliver a COVID-Safe event for everyone. At ticketed venues, we’ll be doing timed or staggered entry and managing capacities; implementing contact tracing protocols; installing sanitiser stations and physical-distancing floor markers; using digital tickets and cashless payments to limit handling. For more information, check out our [COVID-Safe page](https://rising.melbourne/covid-safe).

__Q. Will I have to wear a mask?__

A. RISING is following government advice and guidelines. Currently, Victorians are required to carry a mask and wear it in certain situations. We’ll update you on the conditions of entry via your pre-show email and on the [COVID-Safe page](https://rising.melbourne/covid-safe). We also suggest following us on social media (Facebook | Instagram | Twitter), so you don’t miss any information. 

__Q. How are you managing contact tracing?__

A. All guests are required to check-in at venues via a QR code. It’s a condition of entry that you complete the questionnaire before being granted entry to a venue.

__Q. What happens if I have a ticket and can’t attend due to COVID-related restrictions?__

A. Due to the uncertainties posed by COVID-19, we’re offering additional flexibility through our refund policy.  Read more here or contact us by phone on 03 9662 4242 or [email](mailto:ticketing@rising.melbourne). We’ll sort you out. 

__Q. What happens if I can’t attend because I am unwell or need to isolate after a COVID-19 test? Can I get a refund or an exchange?__

A. Due to the uncertainties posed by COVID-19, we’re offering additional flexibility through our refund policy. We encourage you and your booking party to stay at home if you or they are unwell. You will be entitled to a refund if you, a member of your booking party, or someone you’ve been in contact with, exhibits symptoms of COVID-19 after you make your booking and prior to the event. The symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, chills or sweats, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath, runny nose or loss of sense of smell. You must contact RISING as soon as possible after displaying symptoms or coming into contact with anyone displaying symptoms. We will not be able to provide a refund if you contact us after the event.

__Q. What happens if there’s another lockdown? Will you refund or reschedule tickets?__

A. We may need to postpone or cancel events due to COVID-19, but you will be able to reschedule or get a refund in both instances. We'll keep you informed via email, or you can get in touch with us by phone on 03 9662 4242 or [email](mailto:ticketing@rising.melbourne). For more info on our COVID-Safe ticketing policy head [here](https://rising.melbourne/covid-safe) and refer to our [Ticketing Terms and Conditions](https://rising.melbourne/ticketing-terms).

__Q. Will you provide masks and hand sanitiser?__

A. RISING is following government advice and guidelines. Currently, Victorians are required to carry a mask and wear it in certain situations. We’ll be updating our COVID-Safe page as the guidelines are updated. We ask that you bring your own mask. Each venue will have hand sanitiser stations. 

__Q. I have a medical exemption from wearing a mask. Can I attend?__

A. You don’t have to wear a mask if you have a medical exemption. You must provide proof of your exemption when asked, though. We’ll do our best to remind guests ahead of the event.

# TICKETING

__Q. What does allocation exhausted mean?__

A. It means, currently, we don’t have any available tickets for that event. If you’re seeing allocation exhausted, more tickets may become available soon. We’ll be announcing ticket releases via email ([sign up here](https://rising.melbourne /subscribe) and on our social channels. You can also see if our registered [ticketing partners](https://rising.melbourne/ticket-info) have tickets.

Ticket allocations are currently exhausted for the following:
- Patricia Piccinini
- Tjanabi
- The Dinner Party

__Q. I’m getting an error when booking ice-skating at Rinky Dink?__

A. Each session has a limited number of skaters, so someone else may have your selection in their cart. If you’re having trouble, try a different time and date selection.

__Q. Do I need to book a separate ticket to The Wilds if I’ve bought tickets for ice-skating?__

A. All Rinky Dink ice-skating packages include admission to The Wilds.

__Q. My child would like to go ice-skating—do I need to book an ice-skating ticket for myself as well?__

A. Kids who are 7-and-under must be accompanied on the ice by a ticket-holding adult. Companions and guardians don’t have to book an ice-skating package to supervise skaters 8+ from ringside.

__Q. What happens if it rains?__

RISING is an all-weather event in the middle of winter, so we don’t offer refunds if it rains. If you’re attending an outdoor event, bring an umbrella if the skies are looking dark (and even when they aren’t—it’s Melbourne, you know the drill). We’ll be selling a few wet-weather items at outdoor venues if you find yourself unprepared, or just like the look of ‘em.

__Q. Can I buy a ticket in person, on the day?__

A. Booking in advance means you won’t miss out on tickets or have to queue at a box office. But if you like to fly by the seat of your pants, you can buy a ticket on the day from venue box offices or our customer service booth out the front of Melbourne Town Hall, Swanston Street. However, to protect our staff and you, we’ll only be accepting cashless payments. 

__Q. Can I get a printed ticket posted to me?__

A. As part of our [Sustainability](https://rising.melbourne/sustainability) and [COVID-Safe](https://rising.melbourne/covid-safe) practices, we won’t be offering posted tickets in 2021. Digital tickets will replace our printed tickets where possible and be made available 48 hours prior to your event. If you’re unable to access digital tickets, you can contact ourthe box office via email or phone to arrange venue collection.

__Q. When will I get my ticket?__

A.  You’ll be able to access your digital tickets 48 hours prior to your event. We’ll send instructions to the email address you book with, so make sure it’s one you regularly check and can access on the go. Tickets won’t be available before this period. The confirmation email you receive after you complete your order means your place is secured. If you haven’t received your digital ticket 48 hours before your first event, please contact our Box Office team via our website, [email](mailto:ticketing@rising.melbourne) or call us on (03) 9662 4242.

__Q. Can I book over the phone?__

A. You sure can—please call us on (03) 9662 4242. Our customer service team will be available 10AM–5PM, Monday—Friday. If the phone line is unattended, please leave a message and we'll get back to you. You can also send us an [email](mailto:ticketing@rising.melbourne). 

__Q. Do I qualify for a concession or discounted ticket price?__

A. If you hold any of the following, you’re eligible for a concession priced ticket. Please note that Concession pricing isn’t available for every event. Come prepared to show your proof of concession with your ticket at the venue. 

- Children aged 16 years and under 
- Full-time Students (including international students) 
- Pensioners 
- Seniors 
- Victorian Carer Card holders 
- Health Care Card holders 
- Media, Entertainment & Arts Alliance members 

Frequently Asked Questions

People

Board of Directors

RISING is a new festival aspiring to be a cultural leader in diversity and inclusion. We want our organisation and program to be a true reflection of our city representing people of diverse abilities, cultures and backgrounds. We encourage applications from First Nations people, those who are culturally and linguistically diverse, and people who have a disability or who are d/Deaf.


Jobs

We know that climate change is real. We acknowledge that traditional festival activities have been, by design, unsustainable, and that we can do better.  

RISING strives to deliver events with an enduring and balanced approach to environmental responsibility, social progress, cultural consciousness and economic activity. We make decisions as an organisation, balancing the needs of people, planet and profit. We value community, diversity, inclusion, accessibility and sustainability. 

RISING is minimising our impact on the environment. We aspire to produce zero waste and are working towards this goal by consuming fewer resources and designing out waste in the first place. With this lens we’re choosing products and services that can contribute to positive social, cultural and economic development. 

Even if it’s a bit inconvenient, even if it’s hard, even if we fail, we want to take the lead and engage our event community in the conversation. And each year, we want to continually question the way we do things as we learn and grow.

### WHAT WE’RE UP TO IN YEAR ONE

- We’re learning from experts, doing our research and upskilling our team to make sustainable choices across all departments
- We’re aligning our climate-responsible event strategy with science-based targets and globally agreed ambitions
- We’re scrutinising our supply chains and considering the full impacts of the materials and products we use, as we work towards a more circular economy rather than a linear one
- We’re developing a Sustainability Action Plan, Sustainable Procurement Policy and embedding sustainable considerations into our official project processes
- We’re leaning into digital preferences over printing, in house, in marketing and with our cashless and ticketing systems
- We’re approaching our food and beverage offerings as an opportunity to showcase sustainable practice–sustainable farming, fresh, fair and seasonal paddock-to-plate menus, ethically-sourced ingredients always, and minimising single-use plastic in service
- We’re getting wise with merchandise and uniforms, selling useful, reusable, items and thinking circularity when it comes to festival attire. We’re seeking ethically sourced and manufactured products made from durable and sustainable materials
- We’re measuring our carbon footprint to analyse our impact, create a baseline of Greenhouse Gas emission boundaries and set goals for reductions and improvements
- We’re looking into carbon balancing projects to give back to our planet; to restore and regenerate as we rise


Sustainability


RISING is a beautiful, messy, illuminating expression of Melbourne now. It's a festival that you do, not just see—so we want you to join in.

To create a festival that reflects Melbourne, we need to engage more than the current arts-going community. We need to pull in the audiences and artists so often excluded because of cost, access or lack of direct invitation. Melbourne should see all of its multifaceted talent, creativity, diversity and intelligence reflected in us. 

Audiences of all backgrounds are courageous, sophisticated and interested. No individual event or experience will speak to everyone, but our aim for the RISING program as a whole is that, like a mirror ball, many people can see themselves reflected in it in some way.

With over 130 projects in the program from a [naked disco for one](/festival-program/club-purple) to an [installation floating on the river](/festival-program/wandering-stars) for many thousands, we invite all of the many communities of Melbourne to come together again after too long apart.

## JOIN IN 

In the lead up to and during RISING, there will be many opportunities for you to join in, whether it’s taking part in a lantern workshop or heading down to [Wandering Stars](/festival-program/wandering-stars) on the Birrarung’s banks (Yarra).  

RISING’s aim is to bring people from different cultural, political and social backgrounds together, and help them share their stories. We encourage participation and invite individuals, community and arts organisations, unis, TAFEs, schools, and local businesses to come together to be part of the making of a new tradition for Melbourne with us. 

If you’re interested in participating in RISING in a more formal way, [sign up our Moon Mail](/subscribe).

Participate

About

### __Major Events Declaration__

A major event ticketing declarations has been made under the Major Events Act 2009 (Vic) for RISING (26 May 2021 to 6 June 2021) This declaration also includes *SEASONS in Blak Box* (6 May – 6 June). 

Under the Act, it is illegal for a ticket to be resold, or offered or advertised for resale, for more than 10% above the face value purchase price of the ticket, unless the seller is authorised in writing by the event organiser. 

Breaching this Act can result in heavy fines up to $99,132 for an individual and $495,660 for a company.

Purchasing a ticket from an unauthorised seller can result in the ticket holder being denied entry to the event. RISING will sell tickets to all festival events. A number of venue and presentation partners will also sell tickets including Arts Centre Melbourne, Ticketmaster, Marriner Theatre Group, Max Watts/OzTix, Arts House, The Malthouse, and Melbourne Recital Centre. 

For further information about ticket scalping legislation, visit:  [vic.gov.au/ticketscalping](https://vic.gov.au/ticketscalping "Information about ticket scalping legislation")

## __Other stuff you should know__

DIGITAL TICKETS

As part of our [Sustainability](https://rising.melbourne/sustainability) and [COVID-Safe](https://rising.melbourne/covid-safe) practices, we’ll be using digital tickets where possible. You’ll be able to access your tickets 48 hours prior to your event—we’ll send you instructions on how to get them. If you’re unable to access digital tickets, you can contact the box office to arrange venue collection. Here are our [Terms and Conditions](/ticketing-terms).

PHONE SALES

If you'd like to book a ticket over the phone, call us on 03 9662 4242. Our customer service team will be available 10AM–5PM, Monday—Friday. If the phone line is unattended, please leave a message and we'll get back to you. You can also send us an [email](mailto:ticketing@rising.melbourne).

TICKET PRICES

As you can imagine, it’s a tricky time to be putting on a festival. RISING reserves the right to change any element of a performance sales structure, including but not limited to reserves and pricing, at any time and without notice.

CONCESSIONS

We offer concession pricing to most events*

- Children aged 16 years and under
- Full-time students (including international students)
- Pensioners
- Seniors
- Victorian Carer Card holders
- Health Care Card holders
- Media, Entertainment & Arts Alliance members

*It’s our aim to keep general ticket prices low cost where we can so some events, like The Wilds and Rinky Dink, don’t have concession pricing.

REFUNDS AND EXCHANGES

Unfortunately, it’s not possible for RISING to refund completed bookings, except as required by law or in accordance with the [LPA Ticketing Code of Conduct](https://liveperformance.com.au/resources/?type=919)—so make sure your mate definitely does want to go to a [nude disco](/festival-program/club-purple) with you before you book. 

That being said, we want everyone who attends RISING to feel safe and comfortable. Stay home if you’re feeling unwell and let us know ahead of the event if you can’t attend—we’ll sort you out. Find out more about our COVID-Safe ticketing policy [here](https://rising.melbourne/covid-safe). 

FEES AND CHARGES

Ticket prices for events listed on this website are inclusive of GST and credit card charges.

Depending upon the ticketing agent and purchase method, a booking or transaction fee may apply. Fees also differ based on how you buy your ticket and the options you select.

BOOKING AND TRANSACTION FEES

- RISING: $4 per transaction
- Arts House: $1.50 per transaction
- Malthouse Theatre: $2.50 per transaction
- Melbourne Recital Centre: $6.50 for online bookings, $8.50 for phone bookings (plus postage costs) per transaction
- Ticketmaster: $9.35 per transaction
- Max Watts/Oztix: Ticket price will include booking fees

If you need a breakdown of the GST paid, you can request a tax invoice for completed bookings from the ticketing agent you booked with.

AGE RESTRICTIONS

Some RISING events are adults only—that means 18+—due to the venue selling booze or because of the event content. While [*Deep Throat Drive-In* ](/festival-program/deep-throat-drive-in) isn’t a screening of its namesake, it will likely be too steamy for minors to attend. Please refer to individual event pages for more information.

COMPANIONS

We welcome Companion Cards—[see here](https://rising.melbourne/accessibility-and-inclusion) for details.

PERFORMANCE RESTRICTIONS

We love and respect our performing artists, and we ask that you do, too. RISING reserves the right to exclude latecomers or to admit them only at a suitable point in time, in consideration of performers and other patrons at indoor performances. Some events may have a complete lock out past a certain time, so please triple check the event page. The use of mobile phones, Tamagochis, drones or any other gadgets which make noise during events is not permitted. The use of cameras and other recording equipment is a breach of copyright and is prohibited.

PROGRAM DETAILS

Every effort has been made to ensure program details are correct, however as the past 18 months has shown us, things happen. Details are subject to change where necessary and without notice. We’ll do our best to let you know if they do.

FEEDBACK AND COMPLAINTS

We hope you have great experience at RISING, but we know we won’t get everything perfect on the first go. If you have thoughts on what we can improve, please send us an email at [feedback@rising.melbourne](mailto:feedback@rising.melbourne)  or via mail to PO Box 10, Flinders Lane, Victoria 8009. We’ll respond in writing within 48 business hours.

Read our full Ticketing Terms and Conditions [here](/ticketing-terms).

# Terms and Conditions of Sale 

When purchasing a ticket online to an event promoted or presented by RISING, you agree to the following Terms and Conditions: 
Tickets are sold or issued subject to the Live Performance Australia Ticketing Code of Practice (Consumer Code) (the LPA Code). A copy of the LPA Code can be obtained by visiting www.liveperformance.com.au (click here for a direct link to LPA Codes).

### 1. Conditions of Purchase
1.1 

Ticket refunds are only permitted in line with the Live Performance Australia Code of Practice for the ticketing of Live Entertainment in Australia (liveperformance.com.au) or as otherwise specified by the seller. Ticket exchanges may be permitted under specific conditions, in which case fees may apply. 

1.2 

RISING reserves the right to retain any fees charged to the extent permitted by law. 

1.3 

Tickets are valid only when purchased from RISING, the Event venue or an authorised agent of RISING.  RISING reserves the right to immediately cancel any ticket promoted, advertised, or sold in breach of this condition without compensation.

1.4 

Where a Ticket is purchased through an Event venue or an authorised agent of RISING, you agree to be bound by these Terms of Sale and any additional terms and conditions imposed by the Event venue or authorised agent.

1.5 

You must not re-sell or offer to re-sell any Ticket at a premium or use any Ticket for advertising, promotional or other commercial purposes (including without limitation as a prize in a competition) without the prior written consent of RISING.  RISING may deny entry to the bearer of a Ticket acquired in breach of this condition without compensation.

1.6 

RISING makes no representations or warranties as to the availability of any Event sessions offered and reserves the right to change advertised programs and their respective content, dates and times, prices, venues, seating arrangements and audience capacities.

1.7 

In cases when seating is not allocated (general admission), RISING reserves the right to refuse ticket replacement. 

1.8 

Where concessions are applicable, suitable, and valid identification must be provided for collection of tickets and entry to the venue. Failure or refusal to provide valid proof of concession may result in non-admittance.

1.9 

When purchasing tickets online you acknowledge that all prices listed on the RISING website are in Australian Dollars and include GST. Ticket purchases may include a booking fee as listed on the RISING website. Please note all credit cards will be charged in Australian Dollars. 

1.10 

For events delivered online via streaming platforms you are responsible for determining if your device’s operating requirements and internet connection can successfully run the stream prior to purchase. 

1.11 

For events that carry an increased risk to personal safety, patrons may be asked to sign a waiver. Failure to sign will result in non-admittance and no refunds will be provided.

1.12 

These Terms of Sale are governed by the laws of Victoria, Australia. In the event of any dispute, you submit irrevocably to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts having jurisdiction in Victoria.

### 2. Merchandise and other products

2.1 

Merchandise and other products (including food and beverage products) will not be refunded or exchanged except as required by law (including the Australian Consumer Law)

### 3. Additional information if your order contains a Donation 

3.1 

All donations of $2 or more are fully tax-deductible. Acknowledgement of your gift and a tax receipt will be sent to you by mail or email. Please allow up to 10 working days for processing of your receipt. 

3.2 

Donations of $1,000 or more  may be acknowledged within the RISING Annual Giving program – more information can be found [here](/support). 

### 4. Conditions of RISING Website Use 

4.1 

You must maintain the confidentiality of your account details for any RISING website and take all reasonable steps to prevent unauthorised access.

4.2 

You warrant that any purchase made using your account for RISING is made in your own right or with full authority. You will indemnify RISING and its officers, directors, employees, consultants, licensors, suppliers, and agents from all or any claims made by any persons claiming such transactions to be unauthorised.

### 5. Digital Tickets

5.1 

Tickets may be issued to you in digital format, including but not limited to print at home format.

5.2 

Each valid digital ticket has a unique identifier. This unique identifier allows one entry only. It is the responsibility of the purchaser to ensure that all members of their party have their own digital ticket. 

5.3 

If there are duplicate digital tickets presented, only the first copy to be scanned on arrival at the event will allow the ticketholder entry. Presenting an additional copy will result in our system rejecting the ticket and subject to verification, entry may be denied.

### 6. Conditions of attendance: 

6.1 

RISING and the relevant Event venue reserve the right of admission.

6.2 

RISING or the relevant Event venue may refuse entry or require you to leave the Event if your Ticket has been cancelled, is not valid or has been defaced or damaged.

6.3 

RISING and the relevant Event venue may impose additional specific conditions in relation to entry or attendance to a particular Event.

6.4 

Late comers will only be admitted to an event at the discretion of the venue and may be refused entry completely. 

6.5  

RISING or the relevant Event venue may refuse entry or require you to leave the Event if you engage in offensive or inappropriate behaviour at an Event, including but not limited to by wearing or otherwise displaying any commercial, political, religious or offensive signage or logos.

6.6 

RISING or the relevant Event venue may refuse entry or require you to leave the Event if you breach these Terms of Sale or any terms and conditions of the Event venue.

6.7 

If requested, you must turn off any mobile telephones, pagers, and similar equipment in your possession before entry into an Event.

6.8 

You must not bring a camera or other recording device (other than a mobile telephone) into an Event, and you are strictly prohibited from broadcasting, narrowcasting, or recording any Events (including without limitation on a mobile telephone) without the prior written consent of RISING.

6.9 

You agree that you may be filmed, taped, interviewed, photographed, or recorded while attending an Event, and you consent to RISING or third parties engaged by RISING filming, taping, interviewing, photographing, or recording you. You further agree that RISING may use, publish, edit, incorporate, or otherwise exploit any materials produced under this clause for any purpose (and authorise others to do the same) without further reference to you.

6.10 

Without prejudice to any other rights which RISING or the Event venue may have, if you contravene any of these Terms of Sale you may:
i) be refused entry to, or removed from, the venue;
ii) have your Ticket confiscated and/or cancelled without refund or recompense; and
iii) be disqualified from purchasing tickets for or entering other Events.

6.11 

Where circumstances require, RISING may search a person and/or their possessions prior to entry. Refusal to comply may result in non-admittance. 

6.12 

Patrons carrying large backpacks and other oversized bags (larger than A3 size) may not be admitted. Cloaking facilities will not be provided.

6.13 

If you are refused entry to an Event for any reason then in accordance with these Terms of Sale, no refund will be paid.

6.14 

Ticketholders may be required to produce their ticket(s) as proof of authorised entry at any time. 

### 7. Liability

7.1 

You are responsible for your own safety and property when attending an Event, and to the extent permitted by law, you release RISING and its officers, directors, employees, consultants, licensors, suppliers, and agents from any liability for any claim, damage, injury or loss you may suffer in relation to your attendance at an Event, howsoever caused, including without limitation due to any negligence or other act or omission of RISING. Events presented by RISING include, but are not limited to, artistic presentations and displays, music and performances, food and beverage service and other entertainment.

7.2 

You will indemnify RISING and its officers, directors, employees, consultants, licensors, suppliers and agents against any claim, loss, injury or damage suffered by any of them as a result of your wilful, reckless or negligent act or omission at or in connection with an Event, product or service presented or provided by RISING, or as a result of a breach by you of these Terms of Sale.

7.3 

Except as set out in the LPA Code or under any relevant statutory provision that cannot be excluded, RISING is not liable (including in negligence) for any claim, damage, compensation, loss, or expense that may be suffered or incurred as a result of an Event being cancelled, postponed or changed.

7.4 

Personal arrangements including travel, subsistence and accommodation relating to an Event which has been arranged by you are at your own risk.

7.5 

You agree that your use of any RISING website to purchase a Ticket is, so far as permissible under any relevant statute, at your own risk. To the extent permitted by law, RISING excludes all liability (including without limitation in negligence) for any direct, indirect, incidental, special or consequential loss arising out of or in connection with your use of any RISING website or any associated payment process, and makes no representation or warranty as to the operation or functionality of any RISING website or any associated payment process.

### 8. Privacy

8.1 

RISING respects the privacy of its patrons and strictly adheres to the principles of the Privacy Act 1988. Our privacy policy can be viewed on this website, or by contacting RISING. It contains information about how you can seek to access or correct personal information we hold about you, how you can make a privacy complaint and how we will deal with a privacy complaint. 

8.2 

By purchasing a Ticket, attending an Event, or otherwise dealing with RISING, you agree to be bound by RISING's privacy policy. 

8.3 

RISING collects personal information for purposes that include organising and conducting the festival, improving services and, where you have consented, sending you information about future RISING events, alongside carefully selected special offers from our sponsors. Generally, we only disclose this information to other companies involved in organising and conducting RISING.  We may disclose this information to third parties such as our contractors (e.g. IT service suppliers), who may be located overseas (e.g. in the USA). If you choose not to provide this information, we may not be able to provide you with our services. 

## COVID-19 Special Terms

RISING is committed to the safety of staff, patrons and artists and we have adopted some special conditions that respond to COVID-19. Should there be any inconsistency between these special conditions and other published Terms and Conditions, these special terms will apply. 

-	RISING reserves the right to change its procedures and requirements for collection of tickets. Physical tickets may not be issued for selected Events. Instead, an electronic ticket will be issued or your name may be checked at the entrance against details provided by you at the time of booking
-	In order for you and your party to be admitted into an Event, as a condition of entry, you may be required to present the order confirmation number, photo identification and validity of any concession entitlements
-	In accordance with health guidelines, RISING requires transaction payments to be completed using contactless payments. Cash payments will not be accepted for some or all transactions
-	Due to physical distancing requirements, tickets to events may be sold as unallocated at the time of purchase or the allocation of seating may change. RISING reserves the right  to allocate or reallocate seats for you and the members of your party prior to, or at the time of, the event 
-	You must not attend any Event if you are required to be in isolation with a COVID-19 diagnosis or have been directed to be in quarantine because of close contact with a person with COVID-19, are awaiting COVID-19 test results, or if you are experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19. You must communicate these requirements to all within your party for which you are responsible for purchasing tickets
-	All attendees must comply with any COVID-19 safety protocols or requirements communicated by RISING (including signage at venues or floor line markings). This includes complying with:

    -	 Hand hygiene requirements 
    -	 Physical distancing requirements (including physical spacing requirements while queuing)
    -	 Mask and personal protective equipment directives
    -	 Person limits for each space and area
    -	 Person density/capacity requirements, or
    -	 Any other safety requirement as required by the Victorian government

You acknowledge that anyone not adhering to these requirements may be in breach of directions issued by the Chief Health Officer for which penalties may apply. 

-	You acknowledge that RISING may be required to collect contact tracing information from you and each member of your party when you attend an Event for any reason. This information includes the first name and phone number of each person that attends the venue including children and babies. You must communicate this requirement to your booking party prior to attending the venue
-	You agree to provide RISING with any information we are required to collect for contact tracing purposes. The purpose of collecting this information is to assist any contact tracing in the event of an outbreak or potential exposure to someone with COVID-19 at a RISING Event. You acknowledge that we may disclose contact tracing information to health authorities or as otherwise required or authorised by law. You acknowledge that we may retain the information for 28 days (or such longer period as required by law), after which time it will be deleted or destroyed. While we hold the information, we will take all reasonable steps to keep your contact tracing information secure and free from unauthorised access or use
-	Without limitation to clauses 6.11, 7.1 and 7.2 of the Terms and Conditions of Sale, you and your booking party may be refused entry or required to leave a RISING Event if you or they: 

    -	refuse to comply with any COVID-19 safety protocols or requirements notified to you by RISING 
    -	refuse to comply with any health and safety directions given by Venue staff
    -	refuse to provide contact tracing information to RISING on request 
    -	are exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19, as notified to, or as assessed by Venue staff. These include: fever, chills or sweats, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath, runny nose or loss of sense of smell
    -	are required to be in isolation as a result of COVID-19 diagnosis or have been directed to be in quarantine because of close contact with a person with COVID-19

In these circumstances, Tickets will not be exchanged or refunded unless required by law (including the Australian Consumer Law).

-	We ask that you and each member of your booking party make a reasonable assessment of your health status before attending RISING. To avoid doubt, unless required by law you will not be entitled to a refund if you or a member of your booking party attends our Venue or Event despite exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms and if you or they are then refused entry or asked to leave the Venue or Event
-	Due to the uncertainties posed by COVID-19, we are offering additional flexibility through our refund policy at this time. We encourage you and the members of your booking party to stay at home if you or they are unwell. You will be entitled to a refund if you, a member of your booking party, or someone whom you or they have been in contact with, exhibits symptoms of COVID-19 after you make your booking and prior to the Event. The symptoms of COVID-19 include: fever, chills or sweats, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath, runny nose or loss of sense of smell
-	You must contact RISING as soon as possible after displaying symptoms, or coming into contact with anyone displaying symptoms. We will not be able to provide a refund if you contact us after the Event 
-	You must notify RISING immediately if you or any member of your booking party develop any symptoms of COVID-19 within 14 days of attending a Venue. Please contact us immediately via ticketing@rising.melbourne or call us on 03 9662 4242


Terms and Conditions of Sale 

Ticketing Information

Each year RISING will ask the people of Melbourne to mark, interrogate and celebrate a moment in time defined by the artists of today and tomorrow. Fun, public ritual and togetherness intersect with huge moments in performance, public art and music in a beautiful, messy and illuminating expression of our city's culture.

Empowerment, collaboration, generosity and inclusion are part of RISING’s DNA. We invite all to participate, to be represented or at least be present. We believe to be excluded is to be invisible. 

## ACCESSIBILITY

We will be offering several access and assistive services for different program items. More information and services will be added as we get closer to the festival. Check event pages for the below icons.

| ![Assistive Listening](https://exhibitionist-rising.s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/Access+Icons/Assistive+Listening.svg) | __Assistive Listening__ |
| ---------- | ---------- |

This symbol indicates event venues that have hearing loops or assistive listening systems available for people who are Deaf or hard of hearing. These systems transmit sound from the event directly through a person’s hearing aid or through venue-provided headphones. We recommend you contact the venue directly for further information or assistance.

| ![Auslan Interpreting](https://exhibitionist-rising.s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/Access+Icons/Auslan+translation.svg) | __Auslan Interpreting__ |
| ---------- | ---------- |

RISING is providing Auslan Interpreting for sessions across the festival program, from a [First Peoples food tasting experience](/festival-program/tjanabi) to [immersive theatre](/festival-program/this). Look for the Auslan symbol displayed on event pages—this means one or more sessions will be Auslan interpreted. Check the Event Informtation section on event pages for dates and details.  

- *[THIS.](/festival-program/this)* 
- *[Golden Square](/festival-program/golden-square)*
- *[Heavy Congress](/festival-program/heavy-congress)*
- *[Heart is a Wasteland](/festival-program/heart-is-a-wasteland)*
- *[Tjanabi](/festival-program/tjanabi)*

| ![Audio Described Tours](https://exhibitionist-rising.s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/Access+Icons/Audio+described+tours.svg) | __Audio Described Tours__ |
| ---------- | ---------- |

RISING has several audio described sessions for events, providing an exciting live experience for people who are blind or have low vision. An audio describer uses their skills to describe what is happening in real time or describe how an exhibition looks or what is happening on stage.  

This service will usually mean a personal listening device is provided to enable you to enjoy audio descriptions from where you are in the space. Check the Event Information section on each event page for dates of audio described performances. 

- *[Patricia Piccinini](/festival-program/patricia-piccinini)*
- *[Wandering Stars](/festival-program/wandering-stars/)*
- *[Set Piece](/festival-program/set-piece)*
- *[THIS.](/festival-program/this)* 

| ![Relaxed Performances](https://exhibitionist-rising.s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/Access+Icons/Relaxed+Performance.svg) | __Relaxed Performances__ |
| ---------- | ---------- |

Open to everyone, these RISING sessions have been specifically designed to create a safe and welcoming environment for people who feel they might benefit from a more relaxed environment. This could include people with autism, sensory sensitivities or a learning disability, as well as those living with anxiety or who have experienced trauma.  

Events listed as relaxed performances have committed to designing one or more performances with thoughtful changes to the lighting or sound. For these sessions an information pack with clear directions and information about the performance, and the location of a break out space if one is available, among other things. Check the Event Information section on event pages for relaxed performances dates. 

RISING will be announcing relaxed performances soon. 

| ![Captioning](https://exhibitionist-rising.s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/Access+Icons/Open+Captioning-1.svg) | __Captioned performances__ |
| ---------- | ---------- |

For these performances, captions are displayed on a screen for those of you who prefer to read what is being said. Open Captioning is always in view and cannot be turned off. Closed Captioning can be activated or deactivated by the viewer. Check the ‘Accessibility’ section on each event page for dates of captioned performances. 

- *[HOW TO LIVE](/festival-program/how-to-live)*

### Venue accessibility

RISING will provide accessibility to venues and experiences. As planning progresses for RISING, we'll be able to provide further detailed information on accessibility provisions. 

Our aim is to make sure all people with an accessibility need can enjoy RISING in its full form, whether that need is text capabilities on the website, or the use of a mobility aid, cane, assistance animal, or pram on-ground. Due to existing conditions and site constraints, some select venues require assisted accessibility. 

__Venue Access Drop-Down__

Click on the Venue Access drop-down on each event page to see details on following:

- Nearby accessible parking options
- Nearby accessible drop-off points
- The closest wheelchair-accessible tram and train stops
- The approximate distance covered by a participant to complete the experience
- The location of accessible entrances and bathrooms
- Hearing augmentation available in the venue
- Intra-site transport options available within the venue
- Dog-rest areas

We also recommend visiting [ptv.vic.gov.au](https://www.ptv.vic.gov.au/) journey for the most up-to-date accessible transport services to your event of choice.

| ![Assisted Access](https://exhibitionist-rising.s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/Access+Icons/Assisted+Access.svg) | __Assisted Access__ |
| ---------- | ---------- |

Some of our venues unfortunately have limitations for those with mobility needs. This symbol indicates where assistance from a companion is necessary for wheelchair users to navigate the space. Please see the Venue Access section of the event page for details of our assisted access plan for that venue and contact our customer service team to arrange a free companion assistance ticket along with your booking.

| ![Wheelchair Accessible](https://exhibitionist-rising.s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/Access+Icons/Wheelchair+Access.svg) | __Wheelchair Accessible__ |
| ---------- | ---------- |

Accessibility varies from venue to venue, and if an event shows this wheelchair symbol, then the venue has indicated to RISING that they are wheelchair accessible. Look out for the symbol on the event pages, and if you have any questions please contact our Ticketing team on 03 9662 4242 or via [email](mailto:ticketing@rising.melbourne).

### Companion Cards

Companion Card holders are eligible for a free companion ticket to RISING events, experiences and performances on showing the card to our box office team. Please contact us on 03 9662 4242 or [email](mailto:ticketing@rising.melbourne). to book. We welcome Companion Card tickets at all our events, however if carers wish to partake in the meal aspect of our food events they will need to purchase a separate ticket. Head here for more information on [Companion Cards](https://www.companioncard.vic.gov.au).

## INCLUSION

We actively seek out, invite and include the multitude of communities and cultures that make up Melbourne with a focus on First Peoples’ stories.

### Our goals for Year One are

- Collaborate with First Peoples leaders and communities to connect a broader audience to this rich culture
- Be informed, aware and interested in the issues that impact the city, and our place in the world
- Move the perception of the arts from pretentious and elitist, to democratic and inclusive
- Generate moments of intangible, social and ceremonial transcendence
- Embed cultural diversity within the organisation
- Bring people from different cultural, political and social backgrounds together and help them share their stories
- Bring art to public places, curating a program that includes free and low-cost experiences to invite participation and discovery
- Create moments of shared ritual, where people can transcend the everyday and feel a connection to their community through breaking bread, art and expression
- Foster a culture of curiosity and enquiry
- Encourage different views of the world and trust lived experience

At RISING, we have plans and strategies in place to keep us on track—an Accessibility Action Plan, a Reconciliation Plan, an Equity Action Plan and a Community Engagement Strategy—but we don't just write policy documents, we take action. 

We recognise we won’t get everything right straight out of the gate. We invite constructive criticism and we don't shy away from challenging the status quo. We're prepared to rip things up and start again.

__Feedback__

We recognise that feeling truly welcomed by RISING extends far beyond what has been possible in 2021. If you have a moment to share your experiences please reach out and let us know what we got right—or what needs our attention—so we can take aim at building the inclusive festival of our dreams in 2022.

Please send us an email at feedback@rising.melbourne or via mail to PO Box 10, Flinders Lane, Victoria 8009. We’ll respond in writing within 48 business hours.   


Accessibility and Inclusion

Culture is at our city’s core. (Just ask a Melburnian.)

Naarm, Birrarunga or Melbourne is a place shaped by its ancient and living cultures of First Peoples and colonisation. As a city grown from immigration, it’s now distinct for its contemporary culture of progressive thinking, knowledge, music, art, food and footy.

RISING celebrates and amplifies that culture and experiences that are unique to Melbourne and have put the city on the global stage.

A lot of what you’ll see at RISING are happenings specific to our time and place that [can't be replicated elswhere](/festival-program/patricia-piccinini); experiences that are [radical and ambitious](/festival-program/the-wilds), as well as generous, celebratory, of the moment and for the community.

We hope you’ll join us this winter, and while you’re here, take a look around—it might be while you’re visiting [glowing eels](/festival-program/wandering-stars) waiting for [bathtime on a mysterious island](/festival-program/flow-state), or on your way to meet [Deep Throat](/festival-program/deep-throat-drive-in)—there’s always something going on. Even when there’s sideways rain.

## PLAN YOUR NIGHT

### Ways to explore the program

You don’t need to tell us that the RISING program is a beast to get your head around. Here are a few ways into the program, so you can find what you’re looking for and also happen across a few things you weren’t.

If you're from out of town and need some recommendations for what else to do, eat, and where to stay, [head here](https://rising.melbourne/out-of-towner-tips).

DISTRICTS

RISING is spread across five key districts: [Arts Precinct](/districts/arts-precinct), [Birrarung (Yarra River)](/districts/birrarung), [Chinatown](/districts/chinatown), [Midtown](/districts/midtown) and [Satellite](/districts/satellite). Each district page lists out all the events and experiences happening in that location. If you’re keen to do a couple of things in a night, narrowing in on a district is a good place to start. Of course, Satellite is the outer orbit of the festival, so only a few of those events will be near to each other. Others in Satellite require a trip to Newport or down the Mornington Peninsula. If you want to eyeball exactly where our districts are on a map, you can view district maps via the drop pin icon on any of the [district pages](/districts).

SCHEDULE 

Got a particular day or weekend in mind for some RISING exploration? Check out the [Schedule](/schedule) which filters our whole program by day. You can also go a layer deeper by filtering by location to see what’s happening in a particular district on certain day. 

FILTER TAGS 

On the [Festival Program](http://rising.melbourne/festival-program) you can filter the program by district, price range, [accessibility](http://rising.melbourne/accessibility-and-inclusion)
and experiences like 'family friendly', 'First Nations-led', 'epic' or 'immersive'. You’ll also find artforms like ‘theatre’, ‘dance’ and ‘live music’ in our experience filter. On the right hand side of the Festival Program, you can  view the program as either an image grid or text list.

## Getting to RISING

PARKING

Driving into the city for RISING? Ticket holders can access discounted parking at [Bourke Square Car Park](http://www.bourkesquare.com.au/).  

Show your RISING ticket to staff at the Bourke Street exit of the car park to unlock $10 parking on the day of your event. The offer is available Monday to Sunday with entry from 4PM and exit by 6AM the following day.   

Bourke Street Car Park is located at 392-406 Bourke St, Melbourne. Entry is from Hardware Lane, and exit is onto Bourke St. More information about the car park is available [here](http://www.bourkesquare.com.au/). 

PUBLIC TRANSPORT

RISING is striving to deliver a sustainable festival, and we encourage you to use public transport where it is safe and viable to do so.

Melbourne's iconic tram network is a great way to get around the city—you might even get lucky and find yourself on one of our [First Peoples Art Trams](/festival-program/melbourne-art-trams). 

To plan your journey to RISING by tram, bus or train, use Public Transport [Victoria's Journey Planner](https://www.ptv.vic.gov.au/journey).


Melbourne comes into its own in wintertime. Embrace a fleecy jacket, don a beanie and flit across glistening streets for the next hole-in-the-wall bar, the new Broadsheet-recommended eatery, the MCG, a gig or an art opening. 

## EAT AND DRINK

Formidable bars, restaurants and eateries blanket the city—a true food epicentre is impossible to pinpoint. RISING’s celebratory focus on food is born from the lavish menu at our doorstep. In Midtown, we’re redefining what eating can be via our concept-driven banquets like *[The Dinner Party](/festival-program/the-dinner-party)*, *[Tjanabi](/festival-program/tjanabi)*,  and *[Late Night Yum Cha](/festival-program/late-night-yum-cha)*, and each district has its own curated food and drinks offering for you to experience the best of Melbourne. 

Outside of the festival program, there is even more on offer. Melbourne’s Chinatown is the Western world’s oldest continuous Chinese settlement and home to dozens and dozens of restaurants for those with a dumpling craving. If you’re checking out *[Golden Square](/festival-program/golden-square)*, you could have a drink down the laneway next door at Ferdydurke or Section 8 next door, and then head to the Supper Inn for dinner.

Throughout the city, there are loads of [local favourites]( https://www.visitmelbourne.com/regions/melbourne/food-and-wine/restaurants/?utm_source=rising&utm_medium=partner&utm_campaign=rising-2021&utm_term=destination-page&utm_content=web-referral), old and new. In the city, check out Collins and Bourke Street between Swanston and Exhibition Streets—Andrew McConnell’s Gimlet at Cavendish House, for example, is on the corner of Russell and Collins Streets—or Lt Bourke Street west of Elizabeth Street. And for drinks, Curtain House (home to [Rooftop Bar](https://www.visitmelbourne.com/regions/melbourne/food-and-wine/bars/vv-rooftop-bar?utm_source=rising&utm_medium=partner&utm_campaign=rising-2021&utm_term=destination-page&utm_content=web-referrall) and [Cookie]( https://www.visitmelbourne.com/regions/melbourne/food-and-wine/restaurants/vv-cookie?utm_source=rising&utm_medium=partner&utm_campaign=rising-2021&utm_term=destination-page&utm_content=web-referral) and [Goldilocks Bar](https://www.visitmelbourne.com/regions/melbourne/food-and-wine/bars/vv-goldilocks?utm_source=rising&utm_medium=partner&utm_campaign=rising-2021&utm_term=destination-page&utm_content=web-referral) on Swanston, [Little Lon Distillery’s](https://www.visitmelbourne.com/regions/melbourne/food-and-wine/bars/vv-littlelondistillingco?utm_source=rising&utm_medium=partner&utm_campaign=rising-2021&utm_term=destination-page&utm_content=web-referral) 20-seat bar for gin cocktails on Lonsdale, and [Pinchy’s Co]( https://www.visitmelbourne.com/regions/melbourne/food-and-wine/restaurants/pinchys-co?utm_source=rising&utm_medium=partner&utm_campaign=rising-2021&utm_term=destination-page&utm_content=web-referral) on Bourke Street. 

And for a few others to explore outside the CBD, there’s:

-	Bistro and bar [Carlton Wine Room, Carlton]( https://www.visitmelbourne.com/regions/melbourne/food-and-wine/restaurants/vv-carlton-wine-room?utm_source=rising&utm_medium=partner&utm_campaign=rising-2021&utm_term=destination-page&utm_content=web-referral) in Carlton
-	[Johnny’s Green Room]( https://www.visitmelbourne.com/regions/melbourne/food-and-wine/bars/vv-johnnys-green-room?utm_source=rising&utm_medium=partner&utm_campaign=rising-2021&utm_term=destination-page&utm_content=web-referral), the rooftop bar atop King and Godfree, in Carlton
-	Euro-influenced [Poodle Bar & Bistro]( https://www.visitmelbourne.com/regions/melbourne/food-and-wine/bars/poodle-bar-and-bistro?utm_source=rising&utm_medium=partner&utm_campaign=rising-2021&utm_term=destination-page&utm_content=web-referral) in Fitzroy 
-	Filipino comfort food at [Chibog](https://www.visitmelbourne.com/regions/melbourne/food-and-wine/restaurants/vv-chibog?utm_source=rising&utm_medium=partner&utm_campaign=rising-2021&utm_term=destination-page&utm_content=web-referral) in Footscray

### WHERE TO STAY IN THE CITY

To be smack-bang in the middle of city and a walkable distance to many of RISING’s events, we recommend checking into one of these hotels:
-	[W-Hotel](https://www.visitmelbourne.com/regions/melbourne/accommodation/hotels/w-melbourne?utm_source=rising&utm_medium=partner&utm_campaign=rising-2021&utm_term=destination-page&utm_content=web-referral), 408 Flinders Lane
-	[Lancemore Crossley St.](https://www.visitmelbourne.com/regions/melbourne/accommodation/hotels/lancemore-crossley-st?utm_source=rising&utm_medium=partner&utm_campaign=rising-2021&utm_term=destination-page&utm_content=web-referral), 51 Little Bourke Street 
-	[Zagame’s House](https://www.visitmelbourne.com/regions/melbourne/accommodation/hotels/zagames-house?utm_source=rising&utm_medium=partner&utm_campaign=rising-2021&utm_term=destination-page&utm_content=web-referral), 66 Lygon Street, Carlton

More ideas? There're [plenty more](https://www.visitmelbourne.com/regions/melbourne/accommodation?utm_source=rising&utm_medium=partner&utm_campaign=rising-2021&utm_term=destination-page&utm_content=web-referral) where they came from.

### JUST A TRAM OR TRAIN RIDE AWAY

Venture out of the CBD to Melbourne’s inner-city neighbourhoods, each of which have their own distinct personalities, café, bar and restaurant culture, and shops stocked with local independent designers’ wares. 

[Fitzroy](https://www.visitmelbourne.com/regions/melbourne/destinations/fitzroy) and Collingwood are the north-side homeland you’ve probably already heard about—they’re famous for their food, fashion, galleries, studios, dive bars and delectable dinners strung along and in between Brunswick, Smith, Gertrude and Johnston Streets.

In [Carlton](https://www.visitmelbourne.com/regions/melbourne/destinations/carlton), Melbourne’s ‘Little Italy’, there’s the [world’s best bookshop Readings]( https://www.theguardian.com/books/2016/may/02/interview-with-a-bookstore-melbournes-readings-the-best-bookshop-in-the-world) and indie film beacon Cinema Nova, and numerous bars and restaurants.

A train ride away, are Yarraville and [Footscray](https://www.visitmelbourne.com/regions/melbourne/destinations/footscray ). Yarraville has a manicured, country town vibe with top class eateries—try ChiBao Dumplings, Wee Jeanie and NAVI—and the old timey Sun Theatre, an institution for cinema fans. Footscray’s major drawcard is its wide variety of delicious and authentic cuisines, courtesy of the neighbourhood’s large migrant population from all over the world. Enjoy Chinese, Vietnamese, Malay, Filipino, North African and European eats. Check out Roti Road, Chibog, Karlayisi, Café Lalibela, Rudimentary, and Mr West. 

## DAY TRIPS

In only an hour’s drive out of Melbourne, you can find yourself entirely removed from city life and in the bush, beach, rainforest or farming heartland of Victoria. On either the Bellarine or Mornington Peninsula you can take in spectacular coastal drives (winter’s the perfect time for moody beach view vibes), meet koalas, echidnas or wombats, and taste vino from internationally recognised wineries.

__[Mornington Peninsula](https://www.visitmelbourne.com/regions/mornington-peninsula)__

Golden beaches, art galleries, hedge mazes, geothermal springs, and boutique wineries, breweries and distilleries nested alongside innovative restaurants and local produce stores. Sounds like a good way to wind down after festival fun to us. 

A few places to add to your list are Laura at Pt Leo Estate, Ten Minutes by Tractor, Montalto, Jackalope - Doot Doot Doot and Rare Hare, and St Andrews Beach Brewery. And if you're after an activity, check out Peninsula Hot Springs, the sculpture park at Pt Leo Estate, Ashcombe Maze and Arthurs Seat. 

__[Geelong and the Bellarine](https://www.visitmelbourne.com/regions/geelong-and-the-bellarine)__

For coastal vibes with still a touch of city, Geelong and the Bellarine are home to coastal villages and the lively waterfront city, Geelong. Industrial spaces are transformed breweries, museums, Mill Markets and eateries. The Bellarine is home to some of the world’s most famous surf beaches, like Bells Beach, al fresco dining, just-caught seafood, boutique wineries and wildlife experiences on Port Phillip Bay. 

__[Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges](https://www.visitmelbourne.com/regions/daylesford-and-the-macedon-ranges)__

Prefer rolling hills and expansive plains to the ocean, this idyllic region is home to Australia’s largest concentration of natural mineral springs. With day spas and well-being centres, award-winning restaurants serving local food and wine, and sleepy villages to explore, it’s a good spot for indulgence, relaxation and rejuvenation. 

*Discover more restaurants, bars, accommodation, things to do and day trips with [Visit Victoria](https://www.visitmelbourne.com/?utm_source=rising&utm_medium=partner&utm_campaign=rising-2021&utm_term=destination-page&utm_content=web-referral).*

Out-of-towner tips

Plan your visit

We see RISING as a chance for us all to reconnect as a city after this incredibly long day. We also believe RISING has a fundamental role in rebuilding and lifting up Melbourne’s iconic arts, food and music scenes. That being said, the safety of visitors, artists and staff is our highest priority. 

We are working with the Victorian Government and the Department of Health to deliver a COVID-Safe event for everyone. We ask that you work with us, and give us your trust and patience, so that we can launch this thing into the stratosphere and then safely touchdown back on Earth.

## WHAT WE’RE DOING AT RISING EVENTS

- Timed and staggered entry for ticketed events and capacity management at all venues
- Lower capacity limits to allow physical distancing
- Modified seating arrangements for seated performances
- Floor markers and signage at venues to remind us to stay 1.5metres apart
- Sanitiser stations at entry and exit points
- Requesting patrons carry a mask at all times. Masks are mandatory when travelling on public transport and recommended to be worn where physical distancing is not possible
- Digital tickets to limit handling and encouraging early booking to minimise box office queues
- Contact tracing through digital check-ins using QR codes
- Cashless-only payments across ticket box offices and food and beverage outlets
- Digital-only event programs and digital versions of festival maps 
- COVID-Safety Marshalls at events to support visitors and answer questions
- Flexible ticketing to make refunds or rescheduling available to anyone who has COVID-19 symptoms or must self-isolate (For more info, refer to our full  [Ticketing Terms and Conditions](https://rising.melbourne/ticketing-terms))
- Providing up-to-date information about your event via email 48 hours beforehand 
- Providing COVID-Safe updates on our social channels as required

## WHAT YOU CAN DO

__Stay home if you’re unwell__

Please stay home if you are unwell, have a cough, fever, sore throat, fatigue, shortness of breath or any other flu-like symptoms. Here’s some info on [getting tested and how to isolate](https://www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/getting-tested). If you already have tickets, contact us as soon as you can to reschedule or get a refund (read about our flexible ticketing policy below).

__Sneeze into your space suit__

If you feel a sneeze coming on, fire it into your elbow. 

__Wash those hands__

[Wash your hands](https://www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/hygiene-physical-distancing "VicGov hand washing guide") frequently and for at least 20 seconds. As soon as you arrive make use of the hand sanitiser available. 

__Maintain physical distancing__

Help reduce the risk of COVID-19 infection by maintaining a parallel orbit of 1.5 metres from other people where possible, and avoiding close contact with people outside of your group. 

__Wear a mask__

RISING is following government guidelines on masks. [Current guidelines ](https://www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/hygiene-physical-distancing "VicGov Guide to Physical Distancing")require everyone to carry a face mask at all times and to wear them in certain situations. We ask that wherever physical distancing isn’t possible, that you wear a mask, and be kind and respectful to RISING staff providing any instructions.

## FLEXIBLE TICKETING POLICY

Due to the uncertainties posed by COVID-19, we’re offering additional flexibility through our refund policy. Stay home if you or anyone in your booking party is feeling unwell and let us know ahead of the event if you can’t attend—we’ll sort you out with a refund. It’s the same deal if you need to self-isolate or can’t make it to the festival due to travel restrictions. You’ll need to contact us soon as possible after displaying symptoms, coming into contact with anyone displaying symptoms, or when you first learn you need to isolate or can’t travel. We won’t be able to provide a refund if you contact us after the event.   

Contact us by phone on 03 9662 4242, [email](mailto:ticketing@rising.melbourne) or live chat. 

If we need to postpone or cancel an event due to COVID-19, we’ll reschedule you into another session or provide a refund. For more info, refer to our full [Ticketing Terms and Conditions](https://rising.melbourne/ticketing-terms). 

If you've purchased your RISING tickets via an authorised seller, you’ll need to contact them to discuss your situation. 

Still have questions? Send us an [email](mailto:ticketing@rising.melbourne). 

Covid-Safe


The COVID-19 pandemic forced us to collectively reflect on our world as it has been and to contemplate potential new worlds. Old worlds and hidden worlds have been drawn into focus. RISING called for Victorian artists to respond to this with ambitious ideas for art that could only happen in a festival context. 

The Call to Artists sought proposals for new work from creative individuals, collectives or companies. Not being a funding body, we were looking for ideas suited to a contemporary cultural festival experience. We were particularly interested in ideas that may not work within more conventional arts environments. 

Submissions are currently closed. An advisory group comprising of the RISING national and international curatorial team decided on successful applications. 

NITTY GRITTY

We considered a number of different (and somewhat contradictory) things in the selection process:  

- Ideas that can only be realised in a festival context as opposed to year-round cultural institutions 
- Ideas that are generous, celebratory, of the moment and for the community 
- Ideas that are radical and ambitious 
- Ideas that could apply to multiple cities and festivals, that present opportunities for co-commissioning and future presentation 
- Ideas that are specific to Melbourne, our time and place 

WHAT HAPPENED

In the first round, 100 successful applicants received $2,000AUD to develop their initial proposal further and resubmit into a second round. From there, successful applicants received a creative development fee to facilitate a month-long development of the work. RISING festival producers and production managers worked with artists to support this development, providing expertise and advice on the work’s viability for RISING’s specific context. The outcomes from this development period were then considered by the RISING curatorial team for presentation at the inaugural RISING 2021 and beyond to future festivals depending on the project.


The Melbourne Art Trams Program returns in 2021 with all designs by First Peoples artists.

Melbourne is a city built on the lands of the Kulin Nation peoples; Traditional Owners who continue to maintain deep connections to their country, kin and waterways that have existed for tens of thousands of years.

Along with Victorian Traditional Owners, the place now known as Melbourne is home to many First Peoples from across the country.

The city transforms every day, but beneath the concrete foundations ancient waterways continue to flow. The old gums, scarred with the lines of canoes, stand tall alongside towering skyscrapers, and fresh and salt water continue to meet in estuaries with the moon’s tidal pull.

While the city is changing, country and First Peoples culture is all around us. From the earth to the sky and the stories in the stars, to the built environment, tramways and laneways.

__Curated by Kimberley Moulton (Yorta Yorta), the 2021 First Peoples Art Trams artists are:__  

- Deanne Gilson—Wadawurrung 
- Thomas Marks—Wotjobaluk/Gunaikurnai
- Aunty Rochelle Patten—Dhudhuroa/Wemba Wemba/Yorta Yorta
- Jarra Karalinar Steel—Boonwurrung/Wemba Wemba
- Ray Thomas—Brabrawooloong Gunnai
- Aunty Zeta Thomson—Wurundjeri/Yorta Yorta

The top six selected artworks speak to diverse themes of environmental ecologies and caring for Country, to personal stories of journeying and family, and reflect on the history and cultural heritage of First Peoples in the landscape. As a collective of moving artworks all six share with us the strength and beauty of creative cultural expression and the interwoven connections and continuous cultures of First Peoples in Victoria.

We received close to 60 applications for the 2021 Melbourne Art Trams, and thank everyone who took the time and effort to enter.

### NITTY GRITTY

Victorian Traditional Owners and First Peoples artists were invited to respond to Melbourne and the multiple layers of history, country, diverse community and connections across Victoria. Submissions have now closed.

ART TRAMS CRITERIA

To be selected as a 2021 Melbourne Art Trams artist, applicants were required to be:

- A Victorian Traditional Owner OR
- A First Peoples artist where Victoria is the primary location in which they lived and worked OR
- A First Peoples artist whose practice or body of work over the last five years has primarily taken place in Victoria

 The following creative criteria applied:

- Strength of the creative vision
- Originality of response to the creative brief
- Technical feasibility
- How the artwork responds to its context (ie. riding the tramlines each day)

WHO DECIDED?

Submissions were assessed by curator and RISING Artistic Associate Kimberley Moulton (Yorta Yorta) and the Melbourne Art Tram Partnership Group comprising representatives of Creative Victoria, Department of Transport, Yarra Trams and RISING. This group is be made up of a majority of First Peoples with additional members to support technical and marketing requirements.

2021 First Peoples Melbourne Art Trams

A Call To Artists

### [DONATE NOW](https://tickets.rising.melbourne/donate)

Our inaugural 2021 festival will arrive at a time of post-pandemic recovery. As Melbourne’s major festival, RISING will play a fundamental role in reconnecting neighbours, Australian cities and international communities after a period of separation, loss and economic hardship. Art binds us through collective wonder; it proposes solutions for how we rebuild.

An association with RISING presents an opportunity that can’t be found anywhere else. You’ll play an integral role in rebuilding what was broken, help create unifying new cultural works and reintroduce Australian audiences to the joys of shared experience. We can’t do this without your help.

PHILANTHROPY

Join a community whose passion, loyalty and commitment to the arts helps us create extraordinary experiences that energise our city, fulfill its artistic potential and introduce broad audiences to bold new work

[Find out more](https://scorpio-rising.exhibitionist.digital/donate "Find out more") about our annual giving program. 

To chat about how you can support, or to enquire about setting up a regular donation, please contact Ben or James:

| BEN LEE    | JAMES RALSTON    |
| ---------- | ---------- |
| ~~DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR~~  | ~~PHILANTHROPY MANAGER~~ |
| 0402 289 219   | 0425 350 362  |
| [b.lee@rising.melbourne](mailto:b.lee@rising.melbourne) | [j.ralston@rising.melbourne](mailto:j.ralston@rising.melbourne) |

PARTNERSHIPS

RISING welcomes brands to be part of the inaugural cultural event that is guaranteed to grab the attention of Melburnians and beyond. A tailored partnership can be developed based on key objectives, touchpoints, and budget. From presenting a major district through to activating in one of Melbourne’s hidden back alleys – anything is possible. 

Interested in partnering with RISING? Reach out to [Johanna](mailto:johanna@thebossagency.com)

Our annual giving supporters are the heavenly bodies at the heart of our festival. Their generosity makes everything you see in theatres, galleries and on the streets, possible.

RISING is centred on the idea that art and culture is not just amusement or entertainment, but an essential part of people’s lives. We invite all to participate, to be represented or to be present for the festival. Our RISING Constellations support art and culture in this spirit.
All gifts to our annual giving program, large or small, support hundreds of artists and arts workers throughout the year to provide experiences for everyone to enjoy.

Join RISING’s Constellations with your tax-deductible gift and become an integral part of the festival year-round.

### [JOIN US NOW](https://tickets.rising.melbourne/donate/constellations)

For other ways to donate please contact our Philanthropy Manager:

JAMES RALSTON  
~~PHILANTHROPY MANAGER~~  
0425 350 362  
[james@rising.melbourne](mailto:james@rising.melbourne)


RISING Constellations

> “*Commissioning new work supports an act of creation, of bringing into being … moments that otherwise would never have existed. Commissions challenge all those involved in the process: they are tough purposeful ventures that require time, space, patience, grit, trust, respect and acceptance.
>Commissions are financially demanding as well as being fulfilling and exhilarating. They should be unpredictable, risky and on the edge. If failure is not a possibility, the challenge hasn’t been taken seriously enough*.”  
> 
>— Rupert Myer AO, Commissioning Circle member

One of RISING’s distinguishing features is its emphasis on new commissions by leading Australian and international artists, as well as large-scale, participatory public art events.

RISING’s Commissioning Circle helps us invest in local artists now. It guides leading national and international artists to create and develop ambitious works that bring people together.

Members gain access to the festival’s Artistic Directors and curatorial team, updates about plans and future commissions, and are invited to exclusive events that bring you behind the scenes and into the creative process.

RISING works with artists and producers to make original, commissioned productions over several years across multiple festivals. Joining the Commissioning Circle requires a three-year minimum commitment.

To learn more about our Commissioning Circle, and how you can be involved, please contact our Development Director:

BEN LEE  
~~DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR~~  
0402 289 219  
[b.lee@rising.melbourne](mailto:b.lee@rising.melbourne) 


Commissioning Circle

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RISING would like to thank the following for their support

Partners

# Office
Level 2  
377 Lonsdale Street  
Melbourne VIC 3000  
Australia

### Postal Address

PO BOX 10  
Flinders Lane VIC 8009  
Australia

### Phone

+61 3 9662 4242  

__Ticketing enquiries__

Mon—Fri 10AM—5PM

Closed public holidays

__General enquiries__

Mon—Fri 9AM—5PM

Closed public holidays

If you have a question not covered in our [FAQs](https://scorpio-rising.exhibitionist.digital/faqs "Frequently Asked Questions") or you’re not sure who to reach out to, fill in the form below. If you know which inbox you need to land in, get in touch via the following emails.

For ticketing enquiries, contact [our customer service team](mailto:ticketing@rising.melbourne)

For media enquiries, contact [Luke](mailto:luke@commonstate.co). Here's our [media centre](https://commonstate.co/rising-2021/ "RISING Media Centre"), too.

To make a donation drop [James](mailto:j.ralston@rising.melbourne) or [Ben](mailto:b.lee@rising.melbourne) a line.  

Interested in sponsoring RISING? Reach out to [Johanna](mailto:johanna@thebossagency.com).


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