The Perth Festival 2026 program has officially commenced, unfolding across various venues throughout the city under the creative guidance of artistic director Anna Reece. The festival opened on February 6, marking the start of a 23-day celebration of arts and culture.
A Celebrity Endorsement Sets the Tone
Securing a notable programming approval from global superstar Ed Sheeran during his recent concert at Optus Stadium provided a significant boost for the festival. Sheeran gave a shoutout to Irish band Beoga, who joined him onstage and are scheduled to perform at the festival's Casa Musica venue.
Beoga, known internationally for their own music and collaborations on Sheeran's songs Galway Girl and Nancy Mulligan from his 2017 album ÷ (Divide), will be part of a series of free concerts at the East Perth Power Station hub. This endorsement highlights the festival's growing prestige and reach.
An Expansive and Accessible Program
Artistic director Anna Reece expressed particular excitement about the festival's commitment to accessibility, noting that over a third of the program is free to the public. This includes the Casa Musica concerts and other initiatives designed to engage the community.
The festival kicks off with trailblazing Gold Coast alt-rock band Selve, led by Jabirr Jabirr frontman Loki Liddle, performing at Casa Musica on opening night. Across Perth, venues will host a diverse array of performances ranging from theatre and dance to cabaret, classical music, and film.
Reece emphasised the festival's dynamic nature, stating, "Perth Festival isn't about staying in one lane or in one scene. It can move from a mosh pit to a meditative experience, from really brutal beauty to late night mischief."
Highlights and New Additions
This year's event boasts an impressive lineup, including:
- 13 Perth Festival commissions
- 28 world premieres
- 7 Australian premieres
- Art from 413 West Australian artists
- Contributions from 144 international artists
Since the program's initial launch in October, several notable acts have been added. King Stingray is now set to perform on the East Perth Power Station Main Stage, while The Tiger Lillies will take the stage at Perth Town Hall's The Embassy.
First Nations Art and Citywide Activation
A key feature of the festival is the Boorloo Contemporary program, which includes First Nations artwork illuminating the façade of the East Perth Power Station. Additionally, a new art installation on the Boorloo Bridge showcases animations about the river, Heirisson Island, and the cultural significance of the site.
STRUT Dance will activate Forrest Place in the city centre with Perth Moves, presenting incredible dance performances. Reece shared her vision for the festival, saying, "I'm really ready for Perth to light up in yellow, and for us all to just enjoy. It's absolutely the best time of year in Perth."
A Cultural Antidote to Modern Times
In reflecting on the festival's role, Reece highlighted its potential as a positive counterpoint to the often overwhelming nature of contemporary life. "These days, we all kind of lie in bed at night doom scrolling and see pretty heavy things that are going on in the world. I would just love to lie in bed during February, after getting back from a late night at the festival, and see Instagram flooded with our city, and see it flooded with art," she remarked.
The Perth Festival 2026 runs from February 6 to March 1, offering residents and visitors a rich tapestry of artistic experiences designed to celebrate creativity, community, and the unique cultural landscape of Western Australia.
