OBSERVER: Tattoo Show


Rawcus presents Tattoo Show for the Melbourne Fringe Festival in collaboration with professional tattoo artist Xani Kennedy, from October 15-19 at the Festival Hub, Trades Hall – Solidarity Hall, Carlton.
Under the direction of Katrina Cornwall, this ‘live art, truth and dare show’ will invite a volunteer from the audience to be interviewed and then inked on stage.
Unorthodox high art and low art, the performance moments are said to sit within a guided conversation between the Rawcus Ensemble, the volunteer and the tattoo artist.
“From this conversation we design a bespoke tattoo, a carefully crafted gift, a memorial of our gift together.”
The volunteer has no input into what the design is, but can choose where it is placed. Tattoo Show will examine themes of ‘trust, taboos and memory in an accessible night out with permanent repercussions.’
Consent is key to the show and the volunteer is free to opt out at any point.
Performance Season: October 15, 16, 17, 18 at 6pm and October 19 at 5pm
Venue: Festival Hub, Trades Hall, Solidarity Hall, Carlton.
Tickets: $35/$25
Bookings: melbournefringe.com.au
Cheryl Threadgold

Pictured: Tattoo artist Xani Kennedy.
Photo: Sarah Walker