The Tasmanian celebration of all things vocal returns with a host of performers from Australia and overseas. Traditional and contemporary works rub shoulders with cabaret and educational workshops, while headline acts include Hobart-based vocal ensemble JESSA performing contemporary classical repertoire at the Port Arthur Asylum, and vocal works setting words by Australian writers performed by AVÉ alongside polyphony by Bach and Victoria. This year’s Classical Choral Workshop concentrates on Handel, culminating in a concert featuring his Dixit Dominus, performed by the 120 singers of the Festival’s Classical Choral Workshop, and Zadok the Priest, performed by the Come Sing Handel Choir.

Limelight Editor’s Choice

In this special curated performance, Meg Washington weaves her songs with stories and works that resonate with the women’s histories of the World Heritage‑listed Cascades Female Factory.

Set within the evocative surrounds of this historic site, Meg offers a rare and contemplative concert honouring women’s experiences of resilience, labour, separation and community.

Drawing from her catalogue, she curates a luminous set interlaced with songs and reflections chosen for their connection to the stories held in this place, once a site of confinement for convict women and girls, and now a space dedicated to amplifying their voices.