FUSE FESTIVAL

FUSE is a contemporary multi-arts festival presented by the City of Darebin, turning the whole community into a stage for local artists and performers. Streets, parks, theatres, galleries and other public spaces were transformed into surprising pockets of art, culture and creativity.

The 2026 FUSE Festival brought Darebin to life with 53 events across 10 days. Among them were 19 community-led events funded through the FUSE Community Grants program, giving local artists, creatives and community groups the chance to share their stories, talents and traditions through live performances, installations, workshops and public programs.

A major program highlight in conjunction with Darebin Arts Speakeasy  was the premiere of 7 Dances for 7 People, by award-winning choreographer Trà Mi Dinh. A mesmerising new work inspired by one of humanity's oldest and most mysterious obsessions: the number 7.

The Deadly Darebin stream, presented by Darebin Arts and FUSE Festival, celebrated the depth and diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists. A mix of free and low-cost events invited audiences to experience contemporary First Nations storytelling through live performance, music, film, workshops, gatherings and immersive experiences.

Zilla & Brook has worked with FUSE every year since 2020, helping local artists and community groups reach new audiences through media coverage and publicity. Highlights include coverage in Herald Sun, Koori Mail, National Indigenous Times, Broadsheet and a review in The Age.