Subversive art-pop group TISM has announced its first national headline tour in 30 years, after causing nearly $19,000 in damage to the Sydney Opera House during performances in April. The band, known for anarchic live shows, played two concerts celebrating the 30th anniversary of their breakout album, Machiavelli and the Four Seasons.
A Sydney Opera House spokesperson confirmed that damage occurred to seats and timber flooring in the Concert Hall during the April 10 performance. A report issued to TISM noted that members of the group and audience walked and stood on seats and armrests, with crowd surfing and uncontrolled audience interaction observed. Liquids, including wine, were spilled across seating areas, resulting in stains, breakages, and misalignment to multiple rows.
An itemised bill for repairs and cleaning costs amounted to $18,488.80. The spokesperson said there was no broader impact to the venue and subsequent performances proceeded as planned.
TISM, formed in 1982, is known for satirical lyrics, balaclava-clad members using pseudonyms, and a history of controversial stunts. The band reunited in 2022 after an 18-year hiatus and released their seventh album, Death To Art, in 2024.
The upcoming tour, billed as 'TSIM, the No Mistakes tour,' will hit Adelaide, Darwin, Brisbane, Canberra, Perth, Melbourne, and Sydney from July to October. A tongue-in-cheek statement from the band declared they would play a radically different selection of fan favorites each night.
