What A Night...What A Crowd

So by now all the smoke has cleared, the crates have been moved and the CBD has gone back to business as usual. Hopefully though, for those who inhabited Geelong After Dark 2016 on Friday, the usual spaces that we've come to know too well, now feel a little different. 

Brand Me Baby chucking a pose! Credit: Ferne Millen 

The Cultural Precinct went off, especially earlier in the night as Stardust: The Col Brain Story and Come On In With Viva packed in the Geelong Performing Arts Centre something special, and pieces like Amateur/Professional on the lawn next door got people interacting and being apart of the night. Around the corner Love Is In the Air and Submersion (Bubble Nucleation) gave Johnstone Park the time of it's life! All the selfies looked incredible and the queue to get inside the shipping container proved what an experience was waiting inside.

Zone 2 down Little Malop Street seemed to be the place to be throughout the night, the atmosphere down the mall was potent! The Telematic Cafe was a treat, as was music spinning from the front Real Sound. The Tides of Welcome Choir meet David Roberston Drummers lit up the space later on in the evening as the crowd took over the street. Brand Me Baby made Little Malop St their own - those guys are real firestarters!

The walk down to Zone 3 on Moorabool St saw brilliant acts taking over the most unusual spaces giving them an alternate life! Alchemy 7 saw a haunting voice drift up from the underground women's toilets on  as people of all ages peered over the banister for a glimpse at Rebecca Morton in her eery dress and head gear. Les Medusa (The JellyFish) really did draw eyes wherever they wandered, glowing and bobbing up and down - the crowd following them as they were pulled around the buildings by their own unearthly current. Gore Place was something special too with Lifeless and Wendy Grose turning the cobblestones into something they've never seen before amongst the graffiti and back shop entrances.

The cabaret radio star Joel Carnegie from the amazing Stardust: The Col Brain Story
Credit: Caleb Plumridge

The foreshore at Zone 4 felt like a party at times on Friday with Jumplight, the Projected Playground and the M~M Gathering of the City: Geelong Connected Community keeping people on their feet all night near the Customs Lawn; and the acts tearing it up in and around the Sally Walker Building such as Otherworldy Environments and Movements & Creation were something to behold. Stepping into these art pieces and looking through the glass to what was inside had people mesmerised from the very beginning. 

By 10pm Geelong After Dark came to a close, but people electrified from their After Dark experience kept the momentum going into the night, the city was alive ~ what an amazing sight to see.

Remember to keep posting your pictures and editing your videos, we'd love to see them. Put them on social media and why not give us a tag. Geelong After Dark is gone for this year but we're already planning for next year so feel free to post your memories all year round. 

Want to give us some feed back? You can win a $50 Westfield Voucher if you do. http://www.surveygizmo.com/…/2752703/Geelong-After-Dark-2016

Did you meet our Projector Men & Women? 

Let's Make Geelong After Dark Even Better in 2017

Thank you to everyone who helped make Geelong After Dark 2016 an unbelievable night of arts.

If you have a few moments, we'd love for you to tell us what you thought about Geelong After Dark 2016. The Online Survey only takes 5 minutes to complete. 

Leave your contact details with us and go into the draw to win a $50 Westfield Geelong voucher!

Thank you!

Tonight is the Night! WELCOME TO GEELONG AFTER DARK!

Welcome everyone to Geelong After Dark 2016. It is here...the time is now! 

Over 200 artists are awaiting your presence in the CBD when sun comes down this evening with FREE installations, performances and art experiences from 6-10pm. 

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Geelong After Dark will be divided into Four Zones: Cultural Precint, Little Malop Street, Moorabool Street, and Waterfront Precinct. With thousands of people anticipated to converge in Central Geelong after dusk, join them in discovering some of the region’s most edgy arts experiences, placed in some of the most unusual places.

Throughout you're evening you can use the hashtags #geelongafterdark & #meetyouafterdark to record all of your arts experiences. We'll be sharing them throughout the night on all of our social media. 

If you're good with a camera, why not turn your Geelong After Dark into a short film? Send it into us or tag us on social media. We'll be showing them at next years Geelong After Dark!

...Remember:

You can either just rock up and explore the CBD or follow some of our tailored 'Come With Us' program guides, curated to suit every art type - we guarantee there is something for you! Choose an evening of “Program Highlights”, “Music & Theatre”, “Multimedia & Visual Arts”, “Interactivity” and/or “Family Friendly” activities

And Don't Forget:

If you're feeling adventurous The Kids Treasure Hunt may be your go. Hundreds of children and families will be roaming the CBD, hunting for clues and gathering stamps to win major prizes. You can collect your treasure maps from the Focus Five Building (Geelong After Dark info point) on Cnr Little Malop Street / Gheringhap Street.

Dont miss the M~M Gathering of the City: Geelong Connected Communities at 8:20pm down Steampacket Gardens either! This crazy light and dance party will involve hundreds of people getting down to it on the foreshore. Come and help everyone welcome the Mountain to Mouth walkers into the Geelong CBD! 

There will also be plenty of awesome local Bars and Kitchens open to service your every need. It really does seem that all of Geelong has come out to celebrate central geelong's pop-up night of arts - no doubt going to be the best night of the year! 

Guess there is nothing left to be said so...Meet You After Dark?

Hungry or Parched? ...Plan a Pit-Stop (Eateries & Bars)

With so much about at Geelong After Dark, getting hungry or thirsty doesn't have to be an inconvenience. There are plenty of cool places to rest your heels while you plan your next leg of the evening. 

They're easily marked in accordance to our program guide zones, meaning no matter where you are - a menu is never too far away! They know you're coming so all you have to do is decide what you're feeling (can be tough - we know), put them into your phone GPS or keep an eye out. Here are some our favourites:

Zone 1: Cultural Precinct

• Courthouse Youth Art : Coffee

• Geelong Gallery: Food and Wine

• Geelong Performing Arts Centre: Food and Wine

Zone 2:  Little Malop street

• Parker’s Steakhouse

• The Piano bar Geelong

• Armageddon Cake Dessert Bar

• Sedap Corner,

• Sixty up degrees

• Welcome Back Cafe

• Craft Space Cafe

• Royal Indian

• Pistol Pete's

• Eureka Hotel

• Hot Chicken Project

• The Workers Club

• Captain Bar

• Caruggi Italian Restaurant

• Market Square

Zone 3: Moorabool Street

• PBK Persian Bread and Kebabs

• Black Bull Tapas Bar & Restaurant

• Denny’s Kitchen

• The Bush Inn

• Mojo mama

• Kanitar Thai Restaurant

• Westfield Food Court

Zone 4: Eastern beach Road

• The Carousel

• Geelong Waterfront seafood & grill

• Tuptim Thai Waterfront

• King George Fish & Chips

• Sailor’s Rest (Deakin University)

• Waterfront Kitchen (Deakin University)

• Panache Cafe and Creperie

• Town and Country Pizza

• Mix and Go Froyo

• Blis Ice Cream, The Edge

M~M Gathering of the City: Geelong Connected Communities

Everything is in full swing - researsals are being had and costumes are at the ready for what is surely one of the serious highlights of this Friday night - the Mountain to Mouth Gathering of the City: Geelong Connected Communities. 

This party of a ceremony, taking place in Steampacket Gardens at 8:20pm is where the walking songline that is Mountain to Mouth meets the festivities of Geelong After Dark.

Proudly brought to revellers this Friday night by Geelong Connected Communities, we are super excited for the ceremony, for so many reasons.

Firstly, it involves many varied groups from the Geelong community who have all come together to choreograph an awesome dance extravaganza - lead by the wondrous Gilbert Douglas. Gilbert Douglas is a founding member of the Tumbuka Dance Company for modern dance.  "Originating from Zimbabwe, but now living in Australia, Gilbert Douglas is one of Southern Africa’s most respected contemporary dance choreographers and teachers". With Gilbert joining the list of awesome  artists joining the party this Friday, his extensive touring of so many of Europe and Africa's biggest festivals is sure to extend to Steampacket Gardens when the sun goes down! 

There is another awesome reason why, alongside Gilbert Douglas and the huge support given by Geelong Connected Communities, this event will be such an amazing experience - the extraordinary Lighting Art bonanza constructed by the world famous Phil Lethlean!

Once again if you havn't heard of Phil, then you should have! He's very long list of projects stretching across the international community is certainly one to be admired. He's work as the leading designer for Light Designs Australia has seen him involved with White Night Melbourne, Melbourne Comedy Festival, The Pacific Games Opening Ceremony last year as well as the very memorable 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games - yes, that was Phil's work you saw take over the Yarra River that fine evening! 

Fish on the Yarra

The M~M Gathering of the City: Geelong Connected Communities will be a party to remember so make sure you're there at 8:20pm in Steampacket Gardens by the foreshore to welcome in the Mountain to Mouth walkers and witness all the magic first hand. 

Kids Treasure Hunt - Follow the Clues, Collect the Stamps, Win Prizes

Looking for some awesome family fun at Geelong After Dark! The Kids Treasure Hunt is your best bet for experiencing the exciting pop up arts extravaganza hitting the Geelong CBD this Friday night.

The Kids Treasure Hunt gives you the opportunity to gather the family together and roam the streets of Geelong After Dark. So how do you get involved?

Ainslie Macaulay - Jumplight (credit: Jason Edwards)

Collect a treasure map from the Geelong After Dark Information Point to get started. You'll find this at the Focus Five Building (Cnr of Little Malop and Gheringhap St).

Using clues found on your treasure map, you're to hunt down the 12 amazing performances around the CBD. Each clue relates specifically to an exciting interaction, performance or artistic piece prepared by the wonderful artists. Make sure you get familiar with the full program guide so you can answer all the clues and questions on the treasure map!

Brand Me Baby (credit: Matto Lucas Photography)

When you reach each act, they will give you a stamp which you can add to your treasure map.

After your collected all the stamps, and reach the final destination of the night you can pop your treasure map (with your stamps) into the final collection box where you will have a chance to win some of the awesome prizes. 

Want to know what you can win? All of our cool prizes have been given to us by some of Geelong's funnest places to visit! - check out the full list.

o   A KIDS DINOSAUR BIRTHDAY PARTY AT THE NATIONAL WOOL MUSEUM (VALUED $250)

o   1 HOUR PLAY PACK AT TIMEZONE GEELONG, PLUS A GAME OF SKIRMISH - FOR UP TO 5 PEOPLE (VALUED $145)

o   MARKET SQUARE PRIZE PACK - INC. $50 VOUCHER FROM MIND GAMES (VALUED $100)  

o   2 X FAMILY PASSES FOR VILLAGE CINEMAS – FOR UP TO 4 PEOPLE (EACH VALUED AT $60)

o   BIG W (WESTFIELD) KIDS PRIZE PACK (VALUED $100)

o   1 X FAMILY PASS TO GPAC’S lovegeelongcentral.com Family Magic show “Little Prince” on Saturday 18 June 12:00pm, The Playhouse (VALUED $72)

o   5x $50 VOUCHERS FOR TATE’S TOYWORLD AND HOBBY STORE

So after all that...happy hunting! 

Spend A Night at the Museum...We Dare You!

The National Wool Museum will be open 6-10pm this  year at Geelong After Dark and has an exciting array of surprises brewing within the depths.

As a part of Geelong After Dark, the National Wool Museum is hosting their one of a kind, A Night at the Museum.  "Fantastical things happen when the sun goes down and the lights dim" so prepare for the unexpected!

Here is your chance to creep inside after closing hours and experience Classic silent films and prowls by amber light with Gertie the Dinosaur, The Ghost of Slumber Mountain and Creatures of the Dead Zoo who lurk nearby. Help yourself to some delicious popcorn while your there too!

As well as all that, The National Wool Museum has a special part to play in your evening if your thinking about joining in the Kids Treasure Hunt. (Hint). 

A Night at the Museum also features within our Kids Guide to Geelong After Dark, where you can combine your time at the Museum with other cool activities hand picked for the entire family. 

Make sure you check out the National Wool Museum's website for further information about A Night at the Museum, as well as their other exciting exhibitions such as the Wildlife Photographer of the Year (premièring here in Australia at the National Wool Museum) and Wildlife of Gondwana (Beasts of the Supercontinent) which are sure to blow you away. Put all of these on your calendar, while you organise yourself for Geelong After Dark 2016!

Your Night at the Museum may not be what you expect so if anything, expect to be surprised!

Music & Theatre Guide to Geelong After Dark 2016

Welcome to Geelong After Dark - you lover of music and theatre! We have created a journey for you to take across the streets of Geelong on the evening of 6 May, where you'll encounter a wondrous array of eclectic and inspiring performances. Are you ready? 5, 6, 7, 8!

Click on the pictures for more information about each act!

Wendy Grose (6 - 6:15pm)

Begin your evening down on the foreshore at Sailor's Rest, with an act to get you in the mood for the rest of the evening. Wendy Grose, the internationally renown Geelong Soprano will be airing her vocal chords just for your ears from 6 - 6:15pm. It will be spine-tingling.

Viva (6-6:30pm)

After your ears have been warmed, take a short stroll down to the Geelong Performing Arts Centre foyer, where you will find the amazing act Viva (6-630pm). The women of the vocal group, along with special guests from "Acabellas Fellas" will welcome you with their gorgeous harmonic voices.

On the Air (7 - 7:25pm)

Then, head across to the Geelong Library and Heritage Centre at 7pm for the world premiere of On the Air (7pm-7:25pm) - a wacky radio murder mystery complete with 1940s costumes and stylings. Something different for your evening.

Havana Pavlava (7:15 - 7:45pm)

Next stop: the steps of City Hall. It's time to pull out those dance moves, because Havana Pavlava (7:15pm - 7:45pm) - the high energy street band will be pumping out everything from Latin to Ska style beats and grooves.

Of Longing and Belonging (7:40 - 8pm)

Down on Little Malop St (between Gheringhap and Moorabool Streets), you'll find a performance of Western Edge Youth Arts - Of Longing and Belonging (7:40 - 8pm). This show will weave sharp and surprising comedy with physical theatre, exploring ideas about local and glboal identify from the unique perspective of Geelong's youth. 

Alchemy 7 (8-8:20pm)

Stop off at the corner of Moorabool and Malop Streets for Alchemy 7 (8pm - 8:20pm) for a unique music, theatre and installation piece that will weave a woven copper dress, a light and soundscape with operatic arias. Curiouser and curiouser... 

Tide of Welcome Choir meet David Robertson Drummers

Onwards to Little Malop Street Central now, where The Tides of a Welcome Choir meet David Roberston Drummers (8:45 - 9:15pm). An awesome experience where layered African drumming and vocals entwine with raw personality and synergy. A rare act that will transport you to and from the netherworld. 

Stardust: The Col Brain Story (9-9:30pm)

Last, but certainly not least, take a quick step down to the Geelong Performing Arts Centre for the final performance of Stardust: The Col Brain Story (9pm - 9:30). An epic musical and theatrical journey through the belongings found in Geelong music legend Col Brain's wooden dresser. A captivating radio cabaret show from his grandson, broadcaster and musician, Joel Carnegie in collaboration with the Geelong West Brass Band, director Tom Molyneux and ABC RN (Radio National). 

Brilliant music will also be booming from the epic Waterfront Kitchen from 6:30pm onwards, with numerous acts taking over the stage including Sarah Carroll & George Wilson (6:30 - 7pm), The Von Robertsons (7:15 - 7:45pm) and Victoriana Gaye (8 - 8:30pm). So pop down at any time to catch your breath!

Interactive Guide to Geelong After Dark 2016

Welcome to Geelong After Dark 2016! You’re the kind of individual who loves audience participation, Snapchat stories and Mexican waves. Or maybe you just can’t wait to encounter all the wonderful installations and experiences awaiting you as you meander the streets on 6 May. This guide will give you a hand in planning your big night out - so let us begin!

Click on the pictures for more information about each act!

Blood. Sex. Tears Part 1 (6-7pm)

The Grand Caravan is parked somewhere on Little Malop Street and this is where you become the art-form. An installation of sound art and real life confessions. From 6-7pm you will be able to record your inner most thoughts inside the caravan, about Blood. Sex. (or) Tears.

The Information Membrane (6-10pm)

Next: head up to Police Lane and introduce yourself to one of The Information Membranes (6-10pm). How will you recognize them you say? Well they’ll be fairly hard to miss - you can find one each of the four zones. They will be projecting from their stomachs a rotating quadrant of videos specifically important to Geelong After Dark, so introduce yourselves. Ask them what hides inside them…

Professional/Amateur (6-10pm)

Whilst you’re there, you’ll find Professional/ Amateur (6-10pm) – a fun and crafty comedic exercise incorporating art and theatre. A truly participatory work here so be prepared to roll up your sleeves and be a part of it all.

Back to Back Theatre: The Democratic Set (6-10pm)

After making some new friends, walk down Police Lane and turn back onto the vibrant Little Malop Street – where the guys from Back to Back Theatre will be presenting their incredible show The Democratic Set (6-10pm). Disturbingly obvious and tantalisingly strange, THE DEMOCRATIC SET is a rapid series of short live performances and screen-based video portraits created in collaboration with communities – which will blow you away.

Love is in the Air (6-10pm)

As you emerge from the darkness, head to the steps of the Geelong Gallery (Johnstone Park side). Take a selfie in front of the Rainbow where Love is in the Air (6-10pm), and show your support for Geelong’s LGBTIQ community by posting it to Instagram at #geelongafterdark #loveisintheair.

Bubble Nucleation (6-10pm)

While your within throwing distance of Johnstone Park, the seriously awesome Submersion (Bubble Nucleation) (6-10pm) is an installation that will amaze you above all else! You'll be submerged into a sea of luminous bubbles for a multi sensory experience like no other. Delve into the depths of Jasmine Pilcher's fusion between Air and Water. 

Telematic Cafe (6-10pm)

Continue your evening of interactive fun at 79 Little Malop Street – where you will find the Telematic Café (6-10pm) at Beavs Bar as well as its Part 2, found on the corner of Little Malop and James Street inside a cool empty shop. From radio and artificial organisms, 3D films and fish tanks to an interactive-movement mapping installation, a multitude of sensually overwhelming installations and experiences await you inside. 

Flora Non Evidens (6-10pm)

Just further down Little Malop Street, you will then find the ghostly installations of Flora Non Evidens (6-10pm), showcasing rare Australian plants that interact with the reflections of light and embroidery panels.

Blood. Sex. Tears. Part 2. (9-10pm)

Little Malop Street is your friend tonight, so leave what you've just indulged in behind and go for a stroll towards Little Malop Street central by crossing Moorabool St. But we’ve been here before you say? Well…Blood Sex Tears part 2 is about to take place -  The Listening (9-10pm). Find here the finished work of inspiring sound art crafted from your recordings earlier in the night.

Jump Light (6-9:30pm)

How about a spot of exercise?  Jumplight (6-930) on the Customs Lawn (Waterfront Precinct) is where your schoolyard days remerge for a new look on the timeless past time – skipping rope. An all ages activity prepared by Ainslie Macauley, fresh from White Night Melbourne.

Night at the Museum (6-10pm)

Finally make your way down Moorabool St until you reach the National Wool Museum (6-10pm). You think you know this place but we assure you tonight you won’t recognize it.  Are you ready for A Night at the Museum? Fantastical things will happen here when the sun goes down and the lights dim. Enjoy classic silent films and popcorn or prowl by amber light with Gertie the Dinosaur, The Ghost of Slumber Mountain and creatures of the dead zoo lurking nearby.

Visual & Multimedia Guide to Geelong After Dark 2016

A Geelong After Dark tour made for the visually minded person is right this way. Everything from paints, installations and projections, let us guide you through the night of nights!

Click on the pictures for more information about each act!

Encircling Currents (6-10pm)

We recommend starting your night at 51 Little Malop St where one Naomi Nicholls will start you off on this evening with her 3D Vinyl work Encircling Current (6-10pm)that creeps off the canvas and onto the wall of a building. A truly awesome piece that comes to life as you immerse yourself within it.

Breathe (6:30 - 7pm)

And after you've been dazzled by Encircling Current, you be close enough to the opening Projection piece from the amazing Matt Bonner – Breathe (6:30-7pm). It will be projected onto the front of City Hall, a half hour of absolute transformative bliss we can assure you.

Celtic Lights (6-10pm)

You won’t have to walk too far for the next piece of Geelong After Dark visual amazements, the Celtic Lights (6-10pm) will be hanging around just beside City Hall.    

Laneway Jam (6-10pm)

The next stop on you way through the streets isn't too far at all either. 60 Little Malop Street is the spot that’s calling your name. Here the Laneway Jam (6-10pm), as a part of the Courthouse Youth Arts is taking over. Set in the laneway, it’s all things Jam, an experience for all the senses. There's live music too, as well as coffee and murals being painted!

Steve Salo: Back to Back Theatre Portraits

Now, it’s onwards to 64 Ryrie St, where you will bump into Steve Salo, premiering works from his new project – The Back to Back Theatre Portraits (6-8pm). These portraits, rich in Salo’s signature style are of the amazing actors and actresses from the contemporary Back to Back Theatre Company. You will also get a chance to meet Steve in person, what could be better.

Head back down towards the foreshore now, where a multitude of works are waiting. The first, is at Gore Place, where Lifeless (6-9:30pm), a multi media light installation exploring the state of mind and escape. An extremely powerful work!

Movements and Creation (7-9pm)

So turn around and find yourself at the foreshore. Opposite Cunningham pier you will stumble across a work called Movement & Creation (7-9pm), involving chalk and a flute...intrigued? Of course you are!

Otherworldly Environments (6-10pm)

Also at this spot will be the piece, Otherworldly Environments (6-10pm). An experience that is every bit its name. Step inside a world completely surrounded by projections, with only flashes of the real world to keep you in check. Question every surface and explore all possibilities! 

Temporal Home (6-9:30pm)

Near this space is the Customs Lawn precinct, a space inhabited by two very different works tonight. Temporal Home (6-9:30pm) is a series of sculptural constructions by that frames space with light, shadow and colour, a work you must catch a glimpse off. Also here is Clear the Air (6-930pm), a pop up hypnotic video installation exploring Geelong After Dark's theme - Air. 

Float (9:30 - 10pm)

Time to head away from the foreshore now, and we know it will be worth it. It is time for the Matt Bonner's projection finale! Float (9:30 - 10pm) will dazzle you and keep you gasping, as City Hall transforms into a haunting dream-scape environment. The perfect way to cap of the night.  

Program Highlights Guide to Geelong After Dark 2016

Welcome to Geelong After Dark 2016! Herein lies a curated evening for all those of you who love to pick-the–eyes, order from the top shelf and sample the produce. This guide presents the highlights from the program guide, picked and packaged for you to enjoy as you peruse Geelong on the night of 6 May.

Click on the pictures for more information about each act!

The Information Membrane (6-10pm)

Your first stop will be down on Police Lane. Here, you will meet the humanoids, The Information Membrane (6-10pm). There is one of each of these guys in each zone and they will be projecting from their stomachs a selection of videos specific to your Geelong After Dark evening. Perhaps say g’day, and ask them to reveal the secrets of their stomachs designed to give you the leading edge on the streets tonight!

Blood. Sex. Tears Part 1. (6-7pm)

After your encounter with the membranes, your next stop will be Little Malop Street Central where the first part of the Blood. Sex. Tears (6-7pm) experience awaits. The Grand Caravan is an entirely sensual experience that relies on you as the art medium. Think internal monologue meets sound art production, this is where you become more than a spectator. Here you will forever be a part of the night.

Flora Non Evidens (6-10pm)

Flora Non Evidens (6-10pm) is a sure fire highlight, where rare Australian plants interact in an unusual ghostly fashion amidst threads of light and reflective embroidery. It is down on Moorabool St, not a leap too far from your confessional inside The Grand Caravan.

Brand Me Baby (6-10pm)

Brand Me Baby (6-10pm) are a curious duo who you must meet whilst you are in the area - lurking between Moorabool and Gheringhap St! You will see them dressed in skin body suits so you can’t miss them. Explore digital commodification with this fun interactive piece as you make your way towards our next amazing space.

Encircling Currents (6-10pm)

Your next location for the evening will be the brand sparkling new Geelong Library and Heritage Centre, only a block away. Time for some paint…but not as you know it. Naomi Nicholls' has taken over this space tonight, Encircling Current (6-10pm) is a must see, her art is literally dripping across the buildings walls and floors.

Stardust: The Col Brain Story (7:30 - 8pm)

Now cross to the other side of the road because the Geelong Performing Arts Centre is your next stop. We know this area is awash with arts experiences to behold, but your reason for being here is to experience the radio cabaret project Stardust: The Col Brain Story (7:30 - 8pm).  The story of Col Brain, the grandfather of Geelong’s early music scene is told by his grandson, broadcaster and musician, Joel Carnegie in collaboration with the Geelong West Brass Band, director Tom Molyneux and ABC RN (Radio National). Make sure you arrive early to grab a seat for this 30 minute radio cabaret show!

M~M Gathering of the City: Geelong Connected Communities (8:20 - 8:40pm)

Once you've emerged from the show, make your way down to Steampacket Gardens for a dance party like no other. Walkers from Geelong's Extreme Arts Walk, Mountain to Mouth will be arriving from their walk from the You Yangs and a major ceremony to be held -M~M Gathering of the City: Geelong Connected Communities (8:20 - 8:40pm). Lit up by the world renowned Phil Lethlean (2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony) along with a choreographed dance extravaganza - it’s the perfect interlude for your stroll through the streets after dark.

Blood. Sex. Tears Part 2. (9-10pm)

So now it is back to Grand Caravan at Little Malop Street Central. Because by now Part 2. of Blood. Sex. Tears - The Listening (9-10pm) is ready for you! The recordings made earlier in the night will now have been transformed into an inspiring piece of sound art! So sit back and relax - a must do to fully cap of your amazing Grand Caravan experience. 

Float (9:30 - 10pm)

The last moment of wonder to fill your evening can be found on the front of City Hall. The grand finale being Matt Bonner’s projection art, this work titled Float (9:30 - 10pm). Marvel in its beauty and be transfixed by the spirit of Geelong - After Dark.

Kids Guide to Geelong After Dark 2016

A night out at Geelong After Dark with the entire family can be a night to remember for a lifetime. Come with us as we guide you around after dark – be prepared to laugh, dance, gasp and experience the unusual. You ready…lets go!

Click on the pictures for more information about each act!

Love is in the Air (6-10pm)

Begin your evening at the steps of the Geelong Gallery, why? Because Love is in the Air (6-10pm) and everyone can feel it! The rainbow steps of the Gallery are for you to take a smiling selfie and post it to Instagram in support of Geelong's wondrous LGBTIQ community - #geelongafterdark.

Breathe (6:30 - 7pm)

Before you had a chance to check out everyone’s selfies on Instagram you will be at the front of City Hall in anticipation for the opening projection piece from Matt Bonner. Breathe (6:30-7pm) will transform the building into an awesome organic living musical instrument so be prepared to have you jaws dropped!

Les Meduses (7-10pm)

So if everyone is warmed up now we can head on down to Moorabool St to meet some slippery friends. Les Meduses, better known as The Jellyfish will be here at 7pm. These huge, larger than life creatures immerse themselves in the crowd, gliding along the street, changing colour as they encounter the people and the world around them.

Projected Playground (7-8pm)

Quickly pop on down to the Customs Lawn on the foreshore to have a go on the awesome Projected Playground (7-8pm). Run and jump on the moving images and projected obstacles as you interact with things such as bubbles, disappearing stairs and mazes!

Havana Pavlava (7:15 - 7:45pm)

Hop across one block to Gheringhap St for the pavement slapping Havana Pavlava (7:15-7:45pm)! Ranging from African to Ska beats, these guys are going to have a fun time and they strongly recommend you twist on down to their stomping ground tonight!

Mask Decorating Workshop (6-8pm)

Back on down to the Geelong Library and Heritage Centre to get be a part of the action with the Mask Decorating (6-8pm) Workshop taking over the first floor! Learn from the best and craft your own awesome disguise. The Geelong Gallery never stops giving this evening because nearby you will find Air At The Gallery (6-10pm), dedicated to Geelong After Dark’s theme of Air. Contemporary works from Chris Langton alongside an in-house DJ, a wide range of activities, as well as an invitation to the Land of the Golden Fleece for a special rate this evening.

The Information Membrane (6-10pm)

Time for a meeting with the four gate masters of Geelong After Dark this year, The Information Membrane (6-10pm)! These four genius (one in each zone) are the most recognizable beings on the street this fine evening. Projecting a quadrant of videos essential to your evening, their generous quality means they can be your go-to for everything Geelong After Dark tonight. Get to know them well!

Laneway Jam (6-10pm)

Nearby is the awesome active space Laneway Jam (6-10pm) also on Little Malop St, where your senses will be overloaded with everything Jam. Be amongst live art creation, while enjoying jam-donuts while having your ears jam full live music too!

Night at the Museum (6-10pm)

We’ve done it everyone, one more stop to go! So back on your bikes, and wander on down to the National Wool Museum on the corner of Broughm and Moorabool Streets for the once off – Night at the Musuem (6-10pm)! The museum will come alive tonight after dark, so come and meet Gertie the Dinosaur, the Ghost of Slumber Mountain and creatures of the Dead Zoo, all while enjoying classic silent films! 

"Love is in the air" at Geelong After Dark 2016!

We're throwing lots of love around at Geelong After Dark this year with "Love is in the Air"  - a colourful rainbow of colour to be splashed across the steps of the Geelong Gallery in a loving show of support for Geelong's LGBTIQ community. 

On 6 May (6-10pm) - come on down to the Gallery steps (Johnstone Park side) and snap as many bright smiling selfies as you like. Post your best to Instagram with the hashtags #loveisintheair and #geelongafterdark in support of Geelong's diverse community.

Artists Janne Kearney and Brett Fanning are designing the magnificent rainbow, which will stand proudly on the steps leading up to the Gallery. 

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Miasma - Janne Kearney

Janne's work is full of texture and colour, whist also being described as iconoclastic... Janne says that she likes to "challenge or overturn traditional beliefs, customs, and values" and Geelong After Dark is proud to have Janne and her stunning repertoire on board!

Love is in the Air will be available all night at Geelong After Dark so get yourselves down to Johnstone Park and be a part of all the love that will be in the air!

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Meet You After Dark. Geelong After Dark 2016 program released.

Geelong After Dark 2016’s full artist line up has now been released, with over 60 artists or groups transforming Central Geelong’s streets, laneways and venues, in a night of discovery.

On 6 May (between 6pm-10pm), the city will be full of an exciting mix of unique and surprising FREE performances, installations and arts experiences. This year, Central Geelong will be divided into four zones, where the activity will take place: Cultural Precinct, Little Malop Street, Moorabool Street, and Waterfront Precinct.

The Telematic Cafe Part.2 

Now in its third year, this free multi-award winning event will be Geelong’s biggest ‘pop up night of arts’ yet. With over 200 artists involved, thousands of people are anticipated to converge in Central Geelong after dusk to discover some of the region’s most edgy arts experiences, placed in some of the most unusual places.

Throughout the evening, people will have the choice to “Just Rock Up”, plan an evening using the program guide or choose one of five curated experiences now available on the Geelong After Dark website.

In a Geelong After Dark first, these curated experiences “Come With Us” will offer spectators the opportunity to choose an evening that specifically relates to their whims and interests. People can choose an evening of “Program Highlights”, “Music & Theatre”, “Multimedia & Visual Arts”, “Interactivity” and/or “Family Friendly” activities.

In another Geelong After Dark first, a Kids Treasure Hunt will get children and families roaming the CBD, hunting for clues and gathering stamps to win major prizes. Kids can collect their treasure maps from the Focus Five Building (Geelong After Dark info point) on Cnr Little Malop Street / Gheringhap Street.

Meet You After Dark.

#geelongafterdark

@geelongafterdark (instagram)

https://www.facebook.com/geelongafterdark

Brand Me Baby...Brand Me Good

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Credit: Matt 

Credit: Matt Lucas

Brand Me Baby are a theatrical duo that convey powerful social messages through simple interactive acts. 

They will be roaming the streets at Geelong After Dark asking you to give them a hand with something... Brand them, baby, brand them good.

Nico Reddaway and Caitlin Telford are asking YOU to cover their bodies using badges of pixelated well-known logos. They're brands we can't help see everyday, logos that appear all so natural until you really think about what that means. Call it performative intervention or reflective art-piece, Brand Me Baby explores the creeping commodification of digital intimacy.

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Credit: Matt Lucas

You will recognise these lovely ladies by their skin-tone body suits which represent the self before its blurred with a commercial identity. 

Fresh from the likes of Melbourne's Midsumma Festival, Brand Me Baby are looking to get stuck in at Geelong After Dark. They can't do it without you, so make sure you get all up in their personal space when you bump into them on May 6. Till then catch a glimpse of them storming the Art Town Festival in Prahan last year. 

Brand Me Baby was an interactive performance work, over four hours at Prahran for the Art Town Festival 2015, performed by Caitlyn Telford and Nico Redfern.

Get to know Brand Me Baby more by checking out their Facebook and by following the daring artists behind it. Come and see them after dark!

Nico Reddaway | Tumblr  

Caitlin Telford | Website

...Projections!

Projections are back this time around at Geelong After Dark with amazing pieces to be lighting up the City's most loved buildings and spaces.  Led by the enigmatic Matt Bonner (creatively known as Amoebart), the front of City Hall will be wondrously transformed for the night - all with the amazing power of projection lighting.

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Sneak peak from Matt Boner's Geelong After Dark - Breathe

Matt has been creating Projection Art for the past 16 years with large scale building projection his main focus since 2011. 

“Everywhere I go I find myself looking at buildings and wondering what it would be like to project on them”.

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Sneak peak of Matt's second show -  Float  

Matt has two cool shows to exhibit on the night. The first show Breathe to kick it all off has the "columns expanding with each breath and the façade opening to reveal the heart of the building pumping to a rhythmic beat". (Matt says that this piece has been exceptionally challenging as he has had to reconstruct the building using visual effect software) 

While Float which will conclude the night, "stems from Matt's interest in surrealism and experimental art and music" and focuses on constructing an entrancing dream-scape environment. 

And this time along with fellow artist David Fromholtz, Matt will also be constructing a fully interactive projection light playground down on Customs Lawn. We know this is meant to be for the kids but we also know how tempting it can be to join in - promise we wont judge!

We can't wait for Matt to have everyone's eyes glued to City Hall so make sure you follow Amoebart on Facebook for exciting updates! 

Images taken from a virtual trial run ahead of Geelong After Dark 2016 (composition and colours may change)

Back to Back Theatre: coming soon in Portrait Form...

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Ganesh Versus The Third Reich

If you haven't come across the work of Back to Back Theatre yet - then it's time to indulge in the work of the breathtaking stalwarts of contemporary theatre...

Back to Back Theatre is a theatre company driven by an ensemble of performers considered to have intellectual disabilities.

With a busy schedule of national and international touring productions, their work aims to challenge people’s perceptions on social issues with edgy content and contemporary ideas. 

Currently touring their show, Small Metal Objects in New Zealand, a show that has been "turn[ing] the notion of theatre and the everyday inside out" - it's no wonder that their ensemble members are the subject of much interest from Geelong's very own Steve Salo.

Steve Salo is an artist, who crafts his emotive oil portraits with an alternative edge. He has been working for months on a series of portraits of the ensemble members of Back to Back Theatre - which are set to be revealed at Geelong After Dark this year.

Check out a snapshot of some of Steve Salo's earlier work:

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Passerby Collins Street

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The Glance

"My intent as a contemporary portrait artist is to explore the human psyche through painting its complexities..." - Steve Salo

Steve Salo has been crafting his style since his school days in Geelong - developing his style with both purpose and patience. 

"Often it is the imagining of a picture that takes the most time; hours, days or weeks of pondering and unraveling as he sits capsuled in his couch in front of the easel..." 

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Sarah Mainwaring, shortlisted for the Wyndham Art Prize 2016

This collaboration between Back to Back Theatre, Metropolis Gallery and Steve Salo is going to be a sure fire hit.

Keep up with Steve Salo's Back to Back portrait progression via Instagram and experience these incredible works at Geelong After Dark 2016.

Steve Salo
Back to Back Theatre
Metropolis Gallery

Creeping Off The Canvas with Naomi Nicholls

Naomi Nicholls is a painter, but some time ago she decided to stop people just looking at her work... and made them stand within it.

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Naomi' exhibition in Westfield Knox called The Vault

Naomi likes to paint using the movement of her entire body, resorting to brooms and large calligraphy pens to craft her work. For her, it's all about the process just as much as the finished result. Her cool unique style involves painting onto removable vinyl that appears almost 3D within a space, extending out from it. Painting onto the vinyl this way gives the work its stunning vivid form.

 ...the vinyl is painted in the studio, usually taking up the whole floor with each length - Naomi Nicholls' The Making of Vault

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Preparing The Vault in Naomi's studio

HOW DOES SHE DO IT? It all starts with sketches and colour plans in her studio - and then the first paint hits the vinyl. The installation is just as much a part of the process as well, taking many hours. The paintings are only finished when they finally sprawled energetically around the floors and walls of the space. 

You will instantly notice the bright, glossy colours that spill and overflow into each other, moving and entwining to create an image that can feel alive...

"...the edges of my wall-canvas were too far away to worry about.  When I did arrive at the wall’s edges, I began crossing its line and painting around the corner."

"I have a physical interaction with my painting at a scale that works for my long limbs.  I hope others sense that movement too." - Naomi Nicholls' Breaking Up With The Arts Object

Naomi's paintings mess with the notion of where art should and shouldn't be. You are just as likely to see her work tucked away in a small window, emblazoned on a concrete wall or in a shopping centre hallway - as you are in a traditional art studio. 

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The exhibition Radius and Extension

Naomi is working on something special for Geelong After Dark 2016, which will become a part of the city streets for one night only...see it before it's gone by morning.

But of course - in the meantime, get familiar with more of Naomi's work via her awesome blog. 

Ukes D'Jour: Playing it hard, Playing it Rock and Roll

The cool street-slamming style of Ukes D’Jour will be hitting Geelong After Dark this May, showering our ears with their “bouncy old time swing...” .

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The Uke legends, Ukes D'Jour kicking it at Geelong After Dark 2015

The Geelong local Bluegrass/Jug/Jazz street band joined us before their return to Geelong After Dark for a good ol’ fashioned lightning round of Q&A.

You are named after it, some of you play it, but why the love for the Ukulele?

We love the accessibility of the ukulele. Within minutes a new player can grasp the basics and be able to join in. For people who have never mastered an instrument before - this is an absolute joy. The ukulele bug can strike the heart of even more experienced musos because of its potential for beautiful and diverse sounds. It's a social instrument that brings all levels of musicianship together.

We all still play and love our ukes but we now mix it up with other instruments that take our fancy...double bass, guitar, banjo, mandolin, and saxophone.

Tell us about the birth of Ukes D’Jour and your fondness for ‘Jug’ and ‘Old Time Swing’.

The name Ukes D'Jour is a play on the idea of 'Soup D'Jour' (soup of the day) because whoever turned up on a particular day was a part of the band. Mike and Herc (band members) set us on the path towards old time jug and swing music from the 20's and 30's and from there we all grew to love the bouncy rhythms and crazy lyrics about gamblers and tarts of old.

What’s the best part of playing with a fun mix of young and not as-young bluegrass lovers?

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Its so cool that our 'young'ns' want to hang out with the grey heads - they are now seriously starting to show us up! Hayden (band member) is a rock with the chunky beat on his banjo uke, Elliot (another band member) has the stance and style of a blues harp maestro; and Tom (another band member) knocks us out with his mandolin and guitar breaks. We're fostering the next wave. A mix of young and old allows us to be unique.

You're back again for Geelong After Dark, what was the best thing about playing in the streets last time around?

We loved Geelong After Dark in 2015, there was so much happening. We all enjoyed the fantastic vibe and the family friendly environment. Last year we had a 'join the band' theme and we got around 50 people playing along with us. Geelong After Dark is great for bringing everyone into the streets. With so many interesting pop up performances - people just love it!

Tell us about the show you have in store for Geelong After Dark 2016?

Well, as you know this year's theme is 'Air' - so we plan to blow up a bit of a storm for people who come and see us perform. We will bring out your inner muso and help you find your finger plucking forte. We'll be playing it hard and playing it rock and roll. 

But that's all I can tell you.... You'll just have to be there!

What do you love most about being musicians in and around Geelong?

We play at so many great festivals, and love getting out there on the streets or on stage. We love seeing people smiling and tapping their toes as they walk towards us. To be 'scientifically specific' playing music is all about 'endorphins, serotonin and good vibes - what's not to love?

Catch Ukes D'jour at Geelong After Dark 2016, for a dose of their infectious energy. Follow them on Facebook.

Anyone For a Spot of Night Skipping?

Ever wanted to join in a massive game of jump rope - just like in the school yard? Geelong After Dark 2016 Artist, Ainslie Macaulay is getting people excited for what will be one of the biggest games of jump rope in Australia - right in the heart of Geelong.

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Jump Light at the Old Melbourne Gaol

What's not to like about a huge nine-metre long skipping ripe, constructed with countless LED lights? 

This fun installation piece will delight all those who dare to play - with a sensual new experience to a universally loved past time. We're pretty sure you haven't thrown all care to the wind, so take a stroll into Geelong After Dark this year on 6 May and get ready to skip the night away!

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"I'm really excited to be exhibiting Jump Light at this years Geelong After Dark ... still coming down from the fun whirlwind of White Night last month" - Ainslie Macaulay

Fresh from Melbourne's White Night, Jump Light will be in Geelong this May only for Geelong After Dark, where five of these awesome skipping ropes will await you...

Oh, and before you head into the city, get to know the fabulous artist behind the skipping rope sensation: Ainslie Macaualay.