ACON’s 40th anniversary celebrations will shine even brighter as it continues during September and October, with an impressive line-up of artists, community leaders and trailblazers taking part in a series of headline events. From thought-provoking conversations to dazzling performances, highlights of the ACON 40 festival – ACON 40 Hub, Through the Lens, Love Social Celebration and Ruby Gala Dinner – will bring together some of the most inspiring, influential and through-provoking voices in our communities.
ACON 40 HUB AT THE WHARF
Saturday 29 September 2025 | From 10am | Wharf 2, Sydney Theatre Company | Details here
A full day of panel discussions and performances that explore LGBTQ+ history, theatre, activism and care. Panels include:
- 40 Years of Coming Out and Inviting In: Hosted by ABC journalist Mon Schafter, this panel will explore the notion of ‘coming out’ and how it takes multiples forms through diverse stories and experiences. Featuring Dr Atari Metcalf, former Olympian Ji Wallace, actor Zoe Terakes and comedian Nina Oyama.
- FIRSTS: Hosted by ABC’s Jeremy Fernandez, FIRSTS will feature pioneers and changemakers that have led the way in their respective fields. Featuring former High Court Judge Michael Kirby, actor Brenna Harding, former footballer Ian Roberts and actor Georgie Stone.
- 40 Years of Queer Theatre: STC Artistic Director Mitchell Butel will guide this discussion featuring leading arts and theatrical figures on how queer themes and stories on stage have helped shape our culture. Featuring actor Paul Capsis, musical theatre legend Tony Sheldon, artist William Yang, director Tait de Lorenzo and director/producer Liza-Mare Syron.
- 40 Years of Community Care: A panel session exploring the role of carers and the culture of care, and how they have shaped our communities. Hosted by ACON CEO Michael Woodhouse.
- Sideshow: Hosts Maeve Marsden and Ali McGregor reflect on the legacy of Michael Matou and boundary-pushing 70s and 80s queer Sydney collective Sideshow Theatre Company With Martin Raphael and performances from Imogen Kelly and Kanen Breen.
RUBY GALA DINNER
Saturday 18 October | 6pm | Hyatt Regency Sydney | Details here
A night celebrating 40 years of ACON, rainbow pride and community action. Hosted by broadcaster Jeremy Fernandez and drag superstar Courtney Act, the gala will feature a show-stopping set from First Nations dynamic duo and Eurovision stars, Electric Fields. The evening will also see the presentation of the ACON Honour Awards, recognising outstanding contributions to the health, wellbeing and visibility of NSW’s LGBTQ+ communities.
LOVE SOCIAL CELEBRATION
Saturday 27 September 2025 | 12.30pm | The Imperial, Erskineville | Details here
A joyful afternoon of connection and creativity celebrating our fabulous trailblazing older LGBTQ community. Hosted by beloved entertainer Verushka Darling, the event will showcase theatre great Nancye Hayes alongside musical talent Ryan Gonzalez, with acclaimed musical director Michael Tyack. Together, they will deliver a vibrant performance celebrating music, community and pride.
THROUGH THE LENS
Wednesday 24 September 2025 | 6pm | Universal Sydney, Darlinghurst | Details here
A special community event held at Universal (formerly Midnight Shift) – the building where ACON was first envisaged. Leading community photographers William Yang, CMoore Hardy, Ann-Marie Calilhanna and Mark Dickson will share stories behind the images they have captured at events which have shaped four decades of ACON’s work in the communities.
Quote from ACON CEO Michael Woodhouse:
“From powerhouse performers to trailblazing advocates, our festival guests represent the very best of who we are and what we have achieved. These events are not only about celebration, they are about honouring our history and looking towards a future built on inclusion, resilience and care.
“Our communities have such powerful stories to tell – of which ACON is an important part – and we’re honoured to be able to provide a platform for people to share them. We’re grateful to the many artists, leaders and storytellers joining us for ACON 40 to share their stories. I encourage everyone to take part in these incredible events and be part of this celebration.”
The ACON 40 festival continues across Sydney and regional NSW until October. Find out more about ACON 40 here.
ENDS
For more information please contact: David Alexander, ACON Media and Communications
E: dalexander@acon.org.au T: +61 (02) 9206 2044 M: +61 (0)428 477 042