Forest Collective’s latest concert series is a bit of a mixed bag, intentionally, says Artistic Director Evan J Lawson. That is to say, it’s “very Forest”.

In October, the Melbourne-based new music group presents It’s A Matter Of Time, a three-concert program that combines classical and contemporary music with dance and poetry. 

Examining art’s role in healing and intimacy, it should feel right at home in The Eleventh Hour, “a fabulous little [performance] space” in Fitzroy. In fact, the theme of time, which runs throughout the concerts, is a response to the venue’s name.

“We thought it’d be a great space to do some concerts in. The comfort of a venue also informs our aesthetic. Yes, we want to do really difficult music or dance works, but let’s make sure there’s a good bar. We want to make the experience as pleasurable as possible,” says Lawson

Evan J Lawson Photo © Dan Rabin

The Forest Collection has had the first of the concerts, Folding, “up its sleeve for a while”. Curated by flautist Kim Tan, it melds improvisation and movement (from Tan herself and dancer/choreographer Ashley Dougan) with Baroque and contemporary music. 

It...