New Annual: First Night Art Party

In partnership with the Newcastle Art Gallery, New Annual is taking over Laman Street for First Night Art Party, featuring three powerhouse female performers - Aleksiah, Djanaba, and Ngaiire. In collaboration with the launch of Angela Tiatia's MUSE, step inside the gallery for hands-on immersive experiences, plus checkout roving performers, drop-in workshops, food trucks, pop-up bar and family friendly fun.

Three formidable female artists take over Laman Street's main stage for a night of fearless sound and electric energy. Fresh from sell-out shows, South Australian singer-songwriter Aleksiah brings soulful pop and captivating stage presence. She's joined by Djanaba, a proud Bundjalung woman delivering bold, euphoric electronic pop, while Ngaiire rounds out the lineup with her powerful fusion of electronic, neo-soul, gospel, and big pop.

Inside Newcastle Art Gallery, the launch of Muse marks the first major survey of Newcastle-based, internationally acclaimed artist Angela Tiatia. Spanning 20 years of video, photography, and installation, this immersive multi-sensory exhibition explores beauty, resistance, and global power structures. Speaking in Colour will present First Nations-led workshops celebrating connection, culture, and creativity through weaving, art-making with natural materials, and collaborative hands-on activities.

Dance, create, and join the celebration. Full festival program via the website.