Arts Centre Melbourne is inviting Victorians of all ages to take part in Soundtrack to Our Lives, a free community concert that will bring hundreds of local performers together on the stage of the newly reopened Ian Potter State Theatre on April 18, 2027.
Created by artist Joseph O’Farrell (JOF), the concert will trace the chronological journey of a life through music, with each song representing a different stage, from childhood discoveries and teenage experiences to love, live music and the nostalgia of later years. Participants will have the opportunity to sing, dance or play an instrument alongside special guest performers, with rehearsals taking place across Melbourne’s northern, southern, eastern and western suburbs in the lead-up to the event.
For dancers aged 35 and older, the Westside Movers group is seeking 40 participants to join the production. The group will meet for six Thursday evening rehearsals at Footscray Community Arts Centre on February 25, March 4, 11 and 18, and April 1 and 8, from 7 to 8 p.m. Participants must also be available for a dress rehearsal on April 17 and the concert performance on April 18 at the Ian Potter State Theatre. Participation is voluntary and unpaid.
Other opportunities include a Parents & Bubs Choir for parents and babies up to 18 months, as well as guitar, bass and drum groups for young musicians and adults.
Members of the public can also contribute to the concert by answering the question, “What is the soundtrack to your life?” Responses will help inform the songs selected for the performance.
The concert is part of the Betty Project, Arts Centre Melbourne’s community event series, which encourages people to explore their creativity and connect through shared artistic experiences. Previous projects have included pop-up pianos, decorated miniature wooden homes and large-scale domino installations. Since 2014, more than one million people have participated in Betty Projects.
O’Farrell says the concert will celebrate Victoria’s local music scene while creating opportunities for people of different generations to connect through music and performance.
“I love this city and I’ve been lucky enough to be a musician and artist here since I was 14. A lot of my work is about creating events where people can connect with community, find ‘their people’ and celebrate the power and inclusive nature of art and live music,” he says.
Expressions of interest to participate close November 20, 2026, although individual groups may close earlier if they reach capacity. For more information about Soundtrack to Our Lives and how to get involved, visit artscentremelbourne.com.au.
