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

Fresh from his award-winning, powerhouse performance as Jesus in the critically acclaimed Australian production of Jesus Christ Superstar, and recently announced to play the legendary John Farnham in the world-premiere musical Whispering Jack, one of Australia’s finest voices is coming to the live stage.

In 2026, Michael Paynter strips back the layers and the volume for an exclusive run of intimate solo shows. The Great Australian Songbook Tour sees the singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist reimagining the nation’s most iconic anthems in a series of special, close-quarters settings across the country.