August 4 is a date to mark in your calendar, as a special event is set to take over the town of Maleny. 

Arts Alive Maleny is a vibrant event hosted in the main street of Maleny that brings the whole town and the talent of the arts community to life all in one evening. It is being billed as a circus of the senses where everyone is invited to come and immerse themselves in the world class talent in the Hinterland. 

The event is the brainchild of local artist, performer and community advocate of the arts Steve McLiesh, pictured, and has been in the dreaming for many years. 

“Arts Alive is an event like no other and the first of its kind at this scale in Maleny,” said Steve.  “The vision is to have the artists of Maleny and surrounds showcased and celebrated, and to shine a massive spotlight on the talent we have right here in the hinterland. 

“The idea of the event itself is to create something that feels like it’s alive with activity and learning. A place where you don’t know what’s going to happen next. It’s flowing and emotive.” 

There is no central focus to Arts Alive, rather an atmosphere of many facets, colours and experiences. A place with many art forms represented, all happening at the same time. 

“Maleny is an arts village and we punch above our weight when it comes to talented artists. It’s incredible how many people have started here in Maleny and have gone on to perform internationally, so having an event like this brings all of this to life and gives the whole Sunshine Coast an opportunity to come and experience this talent in a diverse and immersive way!”

Arts Alive will feature lanterns, light shows, art projections, live music, street performances and art exhibitions. There will be installations, dance, puppetry, theatre, comedy, poetry, and pop up workshops, along with a range of intimate gatherings in local cafes and restaurants, artisan stalls and more.