Trailblazing Rapper Lil' Kim Headlines Melbourne's 2026 Rising Festival
Legendary rapper Lil' Kim returns to Australia after 15 years, headlining the diverse 2026 Rising festival lineup in Melbourne.
Trailblazing rapper Lil' Kim is set to headline the 2026 Rising festival in Melbourne, marking her first appearance in Australia in over 15 years. The pioneering female MC will be joined by a lineup of genre-defying artists, including the vomit-inducing performance artist Florentina Holzinger and the inaugural Australian Dance Biennale.
Lil' Kim's performance at Melbourne's Festival Hall will celebrate the 30th anniversary of her landmark multiplatinum album Hard Core, as well as her acclaimed sophomore release The Notorious KIM. The rapper, who last played in Australia in 2011, is widely regarded as a trailblazer for female rappers, paving the way for countless artists who have followed in her footsteps.
Joining Lil' Kim on the diverse 2026 Rising lineup is the boundary-pushing performer Florentina Holzinger, known for her visceral, body horror-inspired shows that push the limits of what audiences expect from live art. Holzinger's work has been described as "an assault on the senses" and is certain to leave a lasting impression on attendees.
Rounding out the festival's marquee attractions is the first-ever Australian Dance Biennale, a landmark event celebrating the country's vibrant and innovative dance scene. The biennale will feature performances, workshops, and discussions, showcasing the breadth and depth of Australian choreography and movement art.
The 2026 Rising festival is set to take Melbourne by storm, offering a diverse array of musical, performance, and dance experiences that will captivate audiences from around the world. With Lil' Kim's highly anticipated return, Florentina Holzinger's boundary-pushing artistry, and the inaugural Australian Dance Biennale, the festival is poised to be a highlight of the cultural calendar.
