The much-anticipated program for the 2025 Adelaide Festival has been revealed by artistic director Brett Sheehy, promising a rich lineup of 65 events, including 11 world premieres, nine Australian premieres, and 15 exclusive performances. Running from February 28 to March 16, this year’s festival promises to be an unmissable cultural highlight.
The festival opens with the grand opera Innocence, directed by Simon Stone, featuring international stars and a compelling exploration of morality. Beyond opera, audiences can expect vibrant dance performances, gripping theatre, and unique music experiences.
The Festival’s Show-Stopping Highlights
Opera lovers will be captivated by Innocence, a modern masterpiece by Finnish composer Kaija Saariaho. Following a stellar run at London’s Royal Opera Covent Garden, this production stars acclaimed Australian Teddy Tahu Rhodes and a talented international cast.
Dance enthusiasts are in for a treat with:
- Club Amour: A performance by Germany’s Tanztheater Wuppertal, celebrating the legacy of Pina Bausch.
- A Quiet Language: Australian Dance Theatre’s 60th-anniversary production.
One of the most ambitious events is the world premiere of Mass Movement by Stephanie Lake Company. This large-scale outdoor performance will feature over 1,000 dancers ranging from ages 12 to 88 in Elder Park on March 1. It’s a free event and a celebration of unity through dance.
Theatre and Literary Delights
Theatre aficionados will have much to look forward to, with iconic names and intriguing narratives:
- Stephen Rea in Beckett’s Krapp’s Last Tape: A thought-provoking one-man play that delves into self-reflection and memory.
- Hedwig and the Angry Inch: Seann Miley Moore leads a new Australian production of the cult rock musical, premiering at the festival.
For book lovers, Adelaide Writers’ Week (March 1–6) promises an engaging lineup. Literary giants such as Geraldine Brooks, Helen Garner, and Marcus Zusak will take center stage. Zusak’s session will mark 20 years since the release of The Book Thief, a global bestseller.
Breaking Attendance Records and Cultural Reach
The 2024 Adelaide Festival shattered attendance records, with around 500,000 visitors attending ticketed and free events. Remarkably, 30% of attendees hailed from interstate, underscoring Adelaide’s cultural draw.
Sheehy, who returned to the helm following Ruth Mackenzie’s resignation, expressed his excitement about the 2025 program:
“I’ve relished the opportunity to curate a lineup of extraordinary works you simply won’t find anywhere else in the country.”
WOMADelaide: A Global Music Feast
Running from March 8 to 11 in Botanic Park, WOMADelaide will showcase artists from over 25 countries. Known for its eclectic lineup and celebratory atmosphere, it remains a standout feature of the festival calendar. The full WOMADelaide program is set to be announced in January.
Hospitality Meets Culture: Hotel Indigo’s Creative Charm
Visitors to the festival can enjoy a stay at Hotel Indigo Adelaide Markets, one of the festival’s preferred accommodations. Located near key venues and Adelaide Central Market, the hotel offers an artistic and modern vibe. Its rooftop bar, fitness center, and pool provide comfort with a creative twist. General Manager Thomas Zinn shared:
“Immerse yourself in the energy of Adelaide and make our hotel your home base for an unforgettable festival experience.”
Related Insights: Sydney’s Hotel Morris Blends History with Style
Sydney travelers seeking charm and convenience should look no further than Hotel Morris, a boutique establishment in the heart of Chinatown. This 82-room hotel combines art deco aesthetics with modern comforts, offering a unique check-in experience through its stylish Bar Morris.
From its Italian-inspired menu to its eco-conscious amenities, Hotel Morris promises a memorable stay. The hotel, part of Accor’s Handwritten Collection, celebrates its historic roots while embracing contemporary luxury.
A Journey to Antarctica’s Ross Sea: A Rare Exploration Opportunity
Heritage Expeditions is offering an exclusive 28-day journey to the Ross Sea, Antarctica. Departing from New Zealand, this trip provides a rare glimpse into the untouched landscapes and historic sites of early polar explorers like Shackleton and Scott. Travelers will step into expedition huts that have remained frozen in time and explore breathtaking islands such as Macquarie Island.
The Ross Sea’s inaccessibility, limited by pack ice to just two months a year, makes this adventure truly one-of-a-kind. For those seeking history, nature, and solitude, it’s an expedition worth considering.
