Revive Live in the Quad
Photo credit: Ben Harrison
The Lismore Quadrangle is set to come alive with the sounds of an exciting new live music program, proudly funded by the Australian Government and spanning four dynamic programs from March 2025 to March 2026. This initiative will transform Lismore into a hub of cultural activity, delivering vibrant, diverse, and inclusive live music experiences in the heart of the community.
This program features a range of events designed to showcase the incredible talent of regional and First Nations artists, support emerging creatives, and foster a strong sense of community.
The programs include:
Echo Locator
Presented by Holiday Maker Records, these larger-scale evening events will feature top-tier acts in an energetic atmosphere, bringing the best of live music to the Quad.
Our Backyard
Seasonal Thursday evening sessions spotlighting local talent. Aimed at fostering community connections, this series provides a platform for regional musicians to shine.
BLAKyard Music
Curated by Mitch King, this series of Friday evening shows celebrates the rich cultural heritage of First Nations artists, offering a showcase of exceptional talent and storytelling through live music.
Sound Lab
Led by Lismore Regional Gallery, this unique program pairs experimental music with Lismore Regional Gallery exhibitions, creating immersive and boundary-pushing experiences for audiences.
Upcoming - 18 September 6pm
Bella Frankie performs original, unhinged Aussie folk yarns of love, flood, country and community. Michael Turner is (Wild Pumpkins at Midnight) on guitar, with the sweet vocals, Autoharp and uke of Ajita Cannings, Tash Kraemer (Australian Haydn Ensemble) on cello and Steve Gilbert (Shane Howard Band) on harmonica. They cut folk music with pop, blues, country, rock and sing in three part harmony, under the namesake of their two black dogs Bella and Frankie.
Jesa says: "Balancing sweet, soulful and gritty, JESA is an acoustic indie folk-ish pop singer/songwriter on Bundjalung Country. With influence from Lizzy McAlpine and Nai Palm (Hiatus Kaiyote) she combines punchy guitar, dynamic vocals and activist-esc lyricism for deep feelers, critical thinkers and nature lovers. JESA burst onto the scene performing at Bluesfest Byron Bay at age 15. Now she’s proudly opened for Kim Churchill and Caravana Sun, completed two East Coast Tours and become a two time semi-finalist in international and national songwriting contests. JESA performed on the stages of Melt Festival and Happy Days Festival and in 2022 completed two East Coast tours celebrating the release of five track EP “Fire In The Sky”. This was the soundtrack for her empowerment through mental health, body image and heartbreak. JESA received Triple J and Double J radio play for her EP with reviews of single “You Before Me” as “gorgeous, catchy and fun” as well as “brings joyful energy that is needed in life”.
The Lismore Quadrangle Music Program is about more than just entertainment. It’s a vision for resilience and growth, aiming to attract diverse audiences, bolster tourism, and provide vital opportunities for local musicians. By prioritising inclusivity, the program seeks to empower underrepresented voices, including First Nations artists, women, LGBTQIA+ creatives, and people with disabilities or from culturally and linguistically diverse communities.
For Mitch King, “Curating the BLACKyard Music Night is a magnificent opportunity to showcase a talented and eclectic range of First Nations music artists within Bundjalung and neighbouring nations. Mitch says that he is “Exhilarated for these artists to share their passion for music and storytelling, through a platform that will support First Nations Music artists in being more recognised within the Northern Rivers music scene."
Holiday Maker Records, curators of Echo Locator, share a similar excitement. "We're honoured for this opportunity to dream up an eclectic music program for the Quad, guided by the creative and eccentric spirit of Lismore. We look forward to showcasing regional artists alongside hosting some fantastic interstate artists, strengthening our community, and creating regional touring opportunities."
The Lismore Quadrangle Music Program addresses a critical need for accessible, all-ages venues in regional Australia. The Quad’s outdoor setting ensures that these events are inclusive and welcoming to all, from families to seasoned music lovers.
Please go to What's On for upcoming dates, with each event promising to deliver unforgettable experiences for audiences and invaluable opportunities for the creative community.
