Dhandha / Campfire
Date
Tue, 29 Sept 2026
Location
Melbourne, VIC
About this event
Wiradjuri choreographer Joel Bray builds a public meeting place on the Western Terrace at Federation Square, drawing on the ancient practice of gathering in a circle. Dhandha means campfire in Wiradjuri language. For as long as there has been fire, Mob have gathered around it — to dance, to connect, to hold ceremony, to be alive together. In an age of digital isolation, Dhandha is a radical act of invitation. Come as you are, move if you want, laugh with strangers, learn a daggy disco move, and watch the Joel Bray Dancers coil and spark to the beat of Blackfella DJs. Arrive at sunset and you are greeted and led through a quiet ritual to usher in dusk. Or come to one of the party nights, when the benches become makeshift stages. Presented by Melbourne Fringe and Fed Square as part of Deadly Fringe.
Good to know
Dhandha / Campfire is open at all times of the day and into the night across the season — sit and reflect, listen to the soundscape, spend time with a friend or soak up the atmosphere. A sunset ritual is held daily; its time shifts with the sunset, so check the Melbourne Fringe schedule for the day you visit. Seating is limited, so arrive early. Party nights are listed separately as Dhandha / Campfire: The Party. This is an outdoor event and the Western Terrace is a cobblestoned outside space with a slight slant. The event is wheelchair accessible and language is no barrier.
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