Take centre stage at the 2026 Melbourne Royal Show

The Melbourne Royal Show is Victoria’s largest and most celebrated community event and in 2026 your group could be part of the magic.

Melbourne Royal is proud to announce the launch of its 2026 Community Performance program giving local performance groups the opportunity to shine on the Town Square Stage, right in the heart of the Show.

From Thursday 24 September to Sunday 4 October, two 30-minute performances will take place daily as part of a packed entertainment program that runs all day.

We’re once again inviting performance groups their chance to step into the spotlight and make the stage their own. Whether you are a dance troupe, a cultural group, or another type of performance ensemble, performing at the Melbourne Royal Show will be a memorable experience and is a fantastic opportunity to showcase your brand to thousands of Show patrons.

If you’re interested in being part of the 2026 Community Performance, please read the Terms & Conditions and complete the application form.

Applications will close on Wednesday 10 June 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it cost to apply?

Application is absolutely free!

If we are selected, will we have to pay for entry into the Melbourne Royal Show?

No, the Melbourne Royal Show will provide all participants and up to 6 minders with entry tickets. All minders must have a valid working with children’s check.

Can we perform more than once?

Potentially – the daily performances will run for 30 minutes, made up of two 15-minute performances. A Community Group of sufficient size and with enough variety to perform for 30 minutes may be given two performance times. Alternatively, a combination of two smaller/shorter performance groups may be selected to perform within the same performance time on the same day.

You can apply to perform on as many days as suits you. When completing your application form let us know your preferred performance day/s and also indicate any other days that would suit you.

We are a performance school - can we apply on behalf of several of our classes?

Yes, we encourage school involvement. In the past, groups have successfully showcased their talents by combining classes or groups (e.g. beginner, intermediate, and advanced) into one large revue. We suggest planning the performance so transitions flow seamlessly from one group to the next.

What time will the performances be?

The performance times are yet to be confirmed but currently are scheduled for 10:45am and 2:15pm daily. Groups will need to arrive one hour before the start of their first performance and be clear of the changeroom within 30 minutes of the end of the performance (you’ll need to take all of your possessions/costumes/props etc. with you at that time) – so it’s a 2-hour commitment after which you are free to enjoy the rest of the Melbourne Royal Show. Please note, parents and guardians are not permitted backstage, unless they are a nominated minder/dresser/teacher.

What should our performance include?

Each performance is to be maximum of 15 minutes and can include multiple performance pieces with multiple groups from your community. Think about your music, choreography and costuming selections carefully. This is an opportunity to promote your group and strut your stuff!

What equipment will be supplied?

This year our community performance facilities held on a stage in Town Square, our centre of site. Full audio playback facilities will be available to play a soundtrack and basic stage lighting will be provided. We will allow you 5 minutes to set up the stage prior to your performance. Any props or oversized items will need to be pre-arranged and delivered to Gate 4 no later than two hours prior to performance times, in consultation with the Stage Manager.

Do I need to come in costume?

This is up to the performer. Each group will have access to a small change room space to prepare for your performance and leave limited belongings. Melbourne Royal will not take responsibility for the loss of personal property, so we strongly suggest that you don’t bring any valuables with you (or make sure you leave them with a family member or friend). Drinking water will also be provided.

How do we get to the Melbourne Royal Show?

It is recommended to catch a train to Melbourne Showgrounds station. Public transport is your best option and we will send you details on the best routes. Unfortunately, we cannot provide any parking at Melbourne Showgrounds.

Will we be paid to perform?

No. All community group performers and minders will receive complimentary tickets to enter the Melbourne Royal Show for each day they come to perform. A limited number of additional tickets may be available on special request. In addition, each group will receive a $100 donation for their performance. Note that your community group establishment must hold a current and valid ABN to be eligible to receive payments from Melbourne Royal.

How will we qualify for selection?

We’re looking for the best of the best! To be considered, your group must:

  1. Provide images of your costumes and videos of recent performances.
  2. Meet group and supervision requirements:
  • 10–50 performers per performance
  • At least 1 Teacher/Leader to oversee the group and liaise with event staff
  • Minimum 1 minder per 8 performers under 18 (unless otherwise approved by Melbourne Royal).  A minder/dresser is responsible for supervision, costume changes, and performer preparation.
  • All teachers, minders, and dressers must hold a valid Working with Children Card
  • Mixed-gender groups must provide both male and female minders
  1. Provide evidence of your Public Liability Insurance – minimum $10 million coverage (unless otherwise approved by Melbourne Royal).
  2. Sign the Performance Agreement

 

How many community groups will be selected?

The Melbourne Royal Show presents only the very best. We require a minimum of one and up to four community groups each day. While no limit to the total number of groups has been set, it is likely that only a small number of high-quality groups will be selected to perform this year.

What materials do I need to support my entry?
  1. A short biography, including a description of your performance.
  2. Details of any achievements or previous high-profile performances.
  3. At least one web link to a video recording of the applicant (the recording quality of any media submitted will not be taken into account).
  4. At least one photo or costume sketch of the applicant.
  5. A short statement or performance synopsis.
I have more questions – how can I get more information?

First read the Terms and Conditions attached to the Application Form. If you still have questions, email rebecca@showtimeattractions.com.au

How do we apply?

Complete the application form on the webpage and make sure to include your videos and images. The cut-off date for all applications is 11pm Wednesday 10th June 2026.

When will we know if our application has been successful?

We aim to send out ‘Offers to Perform at the 2026 Melbourne Royal Show’ by Tuesday 30th June 2026.

Is it going to be fun?

You bet – there’s nothing like the Melbourne Royal Show!