The On The Steps concert series returns to Sydney Opera House Forecourt this December, with a fortnight of curated performances.
This year’s line-up will present 13 unforgettable evenings of world-class performances, from a diverse array of homegrown and international talent, across music and comedy. It’s delivered in partnership with Support Act, with several initiatives designed to raise funds for the charity’s crisis relief services for music industry professionals unable to work.
The series launches with Chet Faker, celebrating the tenth anniversary of his album ‘Built On Glass’, by playing it in full, with special guest Mallrat.
Following on from them are Scottish indie-rockers Franz Ferdinand, before a performance from English rapper, writer, producer Loyle Carner.
Next up is the orchestral-electronic spectacular ‘Synthony’, lighting up the stage and followed by Australian indie-pop sensations Parcels across two nights.
“There’s something pretty surreal about playing on the steps of the Opera House,” Parcels keyboardist Louie Swain says. “In year 12 we actually played in the concert hall for HSC Encore, around the moment we were starting Parcels, so it’s always held a deep and symbolic place for us. We’re honoured to be a part of this series. There’s so many friends and family planning to be there, it will no doubt be very special.“
Homegrown chart-topper Ruel will take the reins next, followed by rock royalty Jimmy Barnes and his powerhouse vocals for a ‘Working Class Man’ 40th anniversary show. Then, New Zealand big guns SIX60 conquer the stage, before The Living End shake the foundations.
Later in the programme there’s a gear shift, as comedy legend Urzila Carlson performs the final show of her sold-out nationwide tour. . . And the lush harmonies of Boy & Bear, followed by the GRAMMY Award-winning gospel brilliance of Kirk Franklin to close the series.
“We are delighted to be partnering with Live Nation for this truly epic series of concerts on the steps of the much-loved Sydney Opera House,” Support Act CEO Clive Miller says. “It’s a wonderful celebration of Australian and international music and a great opportunity to raise funds to support music workers who are doing it tough, especially in the lead up to Christmas. We look forward to being part of this wonderful concert series.”
Tickets on sale now.
On The Steps 2025 Dates/Line-Up
2 December – Chet Faker (Support from Mallrat)3 December – Franz Ferdinand (Support from Teenage Dads & Delivery)
4 December – Loyle Carner (Support from Navy Blue)
5 December – Synthony (Support from Shapeshifter DJ Set and Dick Johnson)
6-7 December – Parcels (Support from King Stingray)
9 December – Ruel
10 December – Jimmy Barnes (Support from Kate Ceberano)
11 December – SIX60 (Support from Pania)
12 December – The Living End
13 December – Urzila Carlson
14 December – Boy & Bear (Support from Hollow Cove & Darcie Haven)
15 December – Kirk Franklin
