Koori Gras: Showcasing First Peoples Involvement in Mardi Gras

By Sam Eacott

Koori Gras is a vibrant showcase of First Peoples culture and community curated by Tim Bishop, Liza-Mare Syron, and Mish Sparks. Presented as a website and timeline originally, this unique collection of images and stories is being turned into an exhibition taking place at 107 Projects in Redfern for a short time only.

Featuring images of LGBTQIAA+ First Peoples entries in Mardi Gras, it traces the timeline of previous milestone events and marks out First Peoples continued involvement with the parade. Kicking off on Tuesday 21 February and going through til Sunday 26 February, the Koori Gas exhibition will highlight key images and artefacts from this extraordinary project.

Later in the week you can catch Black Nulla being held at 107 Projects on Friday the 24th. For a one night special only the cabaret space at 107 Projects will come alive with renowned black drag performers with DJ Black President. Tickets a limited so if you want to come along get in now! 

Serving as a meeting point during the Mardi Gras, Black Point is a large communal table that is set throughout the week of Koori Gras to encourage dialogue between strangers to supply information about services and events.

On Saturday 25 February the table becomes the backdrop for a communal “feed” and open mic night for First People and their guests. Bring a plate and share your stories of black involvement in the Mardi Gras parades.

Koori Gras is part of Near and Now is a suite of four, short-form, night-long performance events – some with associated exhibitions – curated by Sydney’s independent artists and artist-led companies. Taking over the venue through different approaches to performance, Near and Now is for local Sydney audiences who love their freshly-made, edgy performance, alive and kicking – from installation, to intersectional drag, to post-dramatic theatre…with DJs, dancing and drinks ’til late.