The highly anticipated summer nights drone show is finally taking off in Docklands this weekend. Originally scheduled to debut on New Year’s Eve, this drone performance had to be postponed due to COVID-related logistics challenges. After the delay, it is finally ready to go, and it will be well worth the wait. Enjoy two eight-minute shows over Victoria Harbour every night, from Saturday January 15 to Sunday January 30.
Our much-anticipated drone show is ready for lift off!
The 350-strong drone swarm will take to the skies above Docklands twice a night from Saturday.
We know it will be worth the wait 🤩
More: https://t.co/f0kGjaM5vQ pic.twitter.com/qEMBfmzXst
— City of Melbourne (@cityofmelbourne) January 12, 2022
Summer Nights Drone Show
Feel a sense of wonder as you see the drones light up the night sky. The spectacular visuals will be accompanied by magical poetry soundscapes.
From January 15 to 24, hear “Melbourne, Free the Sound,” a poem by Melbourne artist Ren Alessandra, winner of the National Poetry Slam 2020. This poem is about rediscovering Melbourne, and reconnecting with each other.
Then, from January 25 to 30, see the Wurundjeri creation story of “How The Platypus (Dulai Wurrung) Was Made” come to life. This story will be told and illustrated by Wurundjeri, Dja Dja wurrung and Ngurai illum wurrung artist Mandy Nicholson.
This will be Melbourne’s first ever drone show and is completely free to attend.
“I would encourage everyone to book a local venue or sit along the harbour and enjoy the show,” said Lord Mayor Sally Capp.
“While the cancellation of the New Year’s Eve drone event was disappointing, we can’t wait to stun crowds and support local businesses with this breath taking display throughout January,” she added.
This aerial display was developed by Celestial, a drone art company that delivered the 2020 New Year display for Edinburgh
Co-founder and Celestial CEO Tony Martin said that his team has everything they need to deliver the show safely over the next few weeks.
“The end result will be like nothing seen in Australia,” he said.
The summer nights drone show will take place at approximately 9:30pm and 10:30pm each night. Tickets are not required, and the drone show will only go ahead with weather conditions are suitable.
To stay COVID-safe, spectators are encouraged to be fully vaccinated and wear a face mask. Anyone with symptoms, waiting for test results or asked to isolate must stay at home.
Read more about this spectacular drone show here.