Spectrum of summer fun at Customs House

A multi-storey art installation, a theatrical magic show showcasing everyday Sydney life and a charismatic panel talk by LGBTI artists are among a range of events taking place at historic Customs House this summer.

Other activities on the Customs House 2017 program include artist panels, workshops, performances and film screenings.

Lord Mayor Clover Moore said the heritage building offered fantastic free events for locals and visitors to the city alike.

“Custom House’s diverse program and prime location overlooking Circular Quay make it a firm favourite,” the Lord Mayor said.

“From tech skills for over-55s through to magic tricks, this season’s free events are going to make it into plenty of diaries over the summer. Or just walk in to see Megan Geckler’s brilliant art installation ascending from the atrium.”

Events at Customs House during summer include:

A Million Things That Make Your Head Spin Now until 30 April

American-artist Megan Geckler has created a technicolour dream coating the atrium of Customs House, weaving together over 10 kilometres of ribbon to create a multi-storey kaleidoscope.

The installation titled ‘A Million Things That Make Your Head Spin’ is the first work she has exhibited in Australia, and is her second largest ever work covering almost 2,200 cubic meters.

The site-specific installation involved stapling 720 colour-popping strips of c ribbon, more commonly used as flagging tape on construction sites, from the ceiling to the floor filling the entire atrium of the heritage building Viewers are encouraged to explore the work from multiple floors and perspectives, where a greater spectrum of colours are unlocked as the sunlight pouring in from the windows strikes the translucent plastic. 

Unlocking Suitcases 8 February

Marvellous magic tricks and illusions intertwine with storytelling and physical theatre. Tales of migrating to Australia are told by 14 people from different cultures, who seek to discover a shared culture.  Produced by Fusion Magic Club.

Tech Savvy Seniors - Mandarin Classes @ Customs House Wednesdays, 1 March to 5 April

Want to gain confidence in basic computer and digital skills? The Ethnic Community Council is facilitating a free six-part series taught in Mandarin to help older people familiarize themselves with new technologies. Attend the whole series or join us for individual sessions covering computer basics, internet usage, online safety, email, social media, and iPads.

Funded by the Telstra Foundation and FACS, hop on our library PCs and jump into the digital world. 

Stories of art and identity 1 March

As a part of the Mardi Gras festival, join host Joyce Maynge as she facilitates a lively and entertaining discussion with a panel of GLBTIQ artists. The diverse group of creators explain their work, share their stories, and explore the 2017 Mardi Gras theme of Creating Equality. 

CODE: Debugging the Gender Gap film screening 8 March

Celebrate International Women’s Day at Customs House with some popcorn and a screening of this important documentary.

CODE: Debugging the Gender Gap explores why science, technology, engineering and mathematics became gendered, and how encouraging women and minorities to code will reward the entire industry. 

Breaking Barriers 17 March

An exploration of cultural identity comes alive in this mass devised performance running over four hours. Members of the community will collaborate with experienced performance, musical and movement artists to create play which challenges cultural stereotypes in a dynamic and fun environment.

For full details on the all events and programs search Customs House at whatson.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

For media inquiries contact City of Sydney Senior Publicist Elaine Kelly on mobile 0477 362 550 or [email protected]

For interviews with Lord Mayor Clover Moore: Matt Levinson on 0499 319 385 or email [email protected]