Broadway queens to colourful river parades – five must-see events at Melt Festival
Melt Festival returns from October 22 to November 9, transforming Brisbane into a kaleidoscope of queer art and culture. Across 18 days and more than 60 venues, the city will come alive with pageants, parades and protest, alongside a spectacular program of musical theatre, comedy, burlesque, visual arts, theatre and a monumental choral installation. A true celebration of inclusivity, identity and pride, Melt brings together LGBTQIA+ communities and allies to revel in creativity, expression and joy. With hundreds of events and performances to choose from, we’ve rounded up five that absolutely demand a spot on your calendar.
An Evening with Bernadette Peters
Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, Friday October 24
A true Broadway goddess is gracing Brisbane for one night only. Bernadette Peters, the dazzling icon of stage and screen, will perform her only Australian show exclusively at Melt Festival. Making her first Australian appearance in more than a decade, this cultural milestone will see Bernadette Peters perform with Camerata and her own touring musicians in a night of unforgettable showstoppers. With a career spanning five decades, starring in musicals like Annie and Sunday in the Park with George and collecting Tony Awards, a Golden Globe and Emmy nominations along the way, Bernadette Peters remains among the last great stars of Broadway’s golden era. This rare concert promises soaring vocals, magnetic stage presence and a night of pure theatrical magic.
River Pride Parade and River Pride Picnic
Brisbane River and New Farm Park, Saturday November 8
The Brisbane River/Maiwar will shimmer with colour as the River Pride Parade returns for its second year. A flotilla of fabulous vessels – from private floats to dazzling party boats – will sail through the heart of the city in a vibrant celebration of pride on water. Want to be part of the action? Registrations are now open – bring your own boat, hop on a friend’s or book a spot on one of the spectacular party boats cruising through a sea of glitter and good times. If you’d rather stay shoreside, the River Pride Picnic will keep the festivities flowing with live performances and a buzzing community atmosphere. Expect entertainment on the water too, from water skiers to a special appearance by tugboats, before the grand finale of rainbow pyrotechnics lights up the sky above.
Melt In-Conversation series
Brisbane Powerhouse, various dates in October and November
Step inside the stories that shaped some of Australia’s most recognised queer voices with Melt’s In-Conversation series. Across three intimate events, actor Tim Pocock, trailblazing performer Zoe Terakes, and journalist Jonathan Moran with comedian Christian Hull share raw and revealing insights into their personal journeys. From navigating gay conversion therapy to tackling mental health, these talks go beyond the spotlight, offering inspiration and connection through lived experience.
Miss First Nation Contest
Brisbane Powerhouse, October 23–25
Australia’s fiercest First Nations drag queens will command the stage in the electrifying Miss First Nation Contest. Over three days, eight queens will compete across heats before the grand finale on Saturday October 25 crowns the 2025 winner in front of a packed Powerhouse Theatre. With sequins, spirit and serious star power, this is more than a competition – it’s a powerful celebration of identity, artistry and community.
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1000 Voices
South Bank Piazza, Sunday November 9
Brisbane’s biggest choir is set to bring Melt Festival to a triumphant close. 1000 Voices unites LGBTQIA+ and Pride Choirs from across Australia and Aotearoa, alongside solo singers of every level, for a powerful celebration of pride and song. Led by Adam Majsay (Sydney Gay & Lesbian Choir, Sydney WorldPride 2023) and hosted by Reuben Kaye with special guests, the event promises a spine-tingling wall of harmonies and pure joy. Catch a surprise flash mob during the River Pride Parade on Saturday November 8, then feel the full force at South Bank Piazza on Sunday November 9. Whether you’re a choir veteran or a shower singer, this is your time to shine – so lend your voice and be part of the finale.
Head to the Melt Festival website for the full program.
This article was written in partnership with our friends at Melt Festival.