What's On? August 2019

Rain RoomOpens 9 August, Jackalope Pavilion

Random International’s monumental artwork, Rain Room, has captivated more than 500,000 people, worldwide and will make now make its southern hemisphere debut at the Jackalope Pavilion in St Kilda.

A 100 square metre field of continuous rainfall, Rain Room is a responsive environment engaging all the senses, allowing you to be fully immersed in the rain while simultaneously protected from it. A globally significant work, Rain Room seeks to explore how human relationships to each other, and nature are increasingly mediated through technology.

Balenciaga: Shaping FashionOpens 17 August, Bendigo Art Gallery

Cristóbal Balenciaga was one of the most innovative and influential fashion designers of the 20th century. His exquisite craftsmanship and pioneering use of fabrics revolutionised the female silhouette, setting the scene for modern design. Revered by his contemporaries, including Christian Dior and Coco Chanel, Balenciaga was referred to as ‘The Master’.

This exhibition explores the work and legacy of this renowned couturier, showcasing more than 100 garments and hats crafted by Balenciaga from the 1950s and 1960s – arguably the most creative period of his career – through to the work of his protégés and contemporary designers.

Alongside iconic garments are archive sketches, patterns, photographs, fabric samples and catwalk footage, providing a unique insight into Balenciaga's salons and workrooms. The results of new, forensic investigations into the garments – including a collaboration with X-ray artist Nick Veasey and a digital pattern making project with the London College of Fashion – reveal the hidden details and processes which made Balenciaga's work so exceptional.

Charlie and the Chocolate FactoryOpens 9 August, Her Majesty’s Theatre

Melbourne's Golden Ticket has arrived. Roald Dahl’s delicious tale, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, is a delectable treat featuring songs from the original film, including Pure Imagination, The Candy Man and I’ve Got a Golden Ticket, alongside a brand new, toe-tapping Broadway score.

Willy Wonka is opening his marvellous and mysterious chocolate factory to a lucky few. That includes Charlie Bucket, whose bland life is about to sweeten with colour and confection beyond his wildest dreams. He and four other golden ticket winners will embark on a mesmerising joyride through a world of pure imagination.

Now is your chance to experience the wonders of Wonka. Get ready for the Oompa-Loompas, incredible inventions, costumes and sets and more, more, more at this everlasting showstopper.

Melbourne Writers Festival30 August – 8 September, Federation Square

Melbourne Writers Festival is a bookish arts party that will bring this City of Literature to life.For more than three decades, MWF has been bringing together the best writers, thinkers and performers from Australia and around the world to revel in the power of words to unite and inspire.

As well as bringing together the authors you adore, the Festival is pushing the boundaries of a traditional writer’s festival and creating more space for self-expression as they invite visitors to step outside their creative comfort zone.

Melbourne Fashion Week28 August – 5 September, Various Locations

The hallmark consumer fashion event of the season, M/FW presents spring and summer ready-to-wear collections and creatively showcases Melbourne as an iconic destination for fashion, retail, design and hospitality.

The diverse program features everything from runways and exclusive experiences, to pop-up fashion moments and talks with industry leaders.

NGV Friday Night2, 9, 16, 30 August, NGV International

Join the masses at NGV Friday Nights and discover China’s ancient terracotta warriors alongside new works by one of the world’s most exciting contemporary artists, Cai Guo-Qiang.

Indulge at the Hutong Dumpling Bar, enjoy after-hours access to Terracotta Warriors x Cai Guo-Qiang and boogie the night away Australia’s best bands and performers play live in the Great Hall. Taking to the stage this month are Kira Puru, Hobsons Bay Coast Guard, CLYPSO and Slum Sociable.