Dylan Alcott's Ability Fest
Untitled Group and triple j, in conjunction with the Dylan Alcott Foundation, will bring Ability Fest, a one-of-a-kind inclusive festival to Melbourne on the 19th of October, and for the very first time to Brisbane on the 26th of October. As a not-for-profit event, 100% of proceeds from Ability Fest are donated to the Dylan Alcott Foundation, with each ticket contributing to helping young Australians living with a disability fulfil their dreams. We got to ask the legend himself, Dylan Alcott some questions about Ability Fest and what other festivals can do to be more inclusive.
For those who haven't been to Ability Fest, what makes your event different from other festival events?
Ability Fest is all about accessibility and inclusion for all. We’ve created a space where everyone – regardless of ability – can come together, have a dance and connect with each other. It’s not just about accessibility though; it’s about creating an environment where everyone feels welcome and valued. We pride ourselves on not just prioritising physical access, but a sense of belonging too. That’s what makes it special!
Was there a defining moment that led to you creating Ability Fest?
I’ve always been passionate about creating opportunities for people with disability, and after seeing how often people are excluded from mainstream events, Untitled Group and the Dylan Alcott Foundation wanted to be the catalyst for change. Music festivals are all about community, so it makes sense to offer that sense of community to everyone.
“It’s about breaking down barriers and making sure everyone feels welcome”
What is your first step tip for festivals to become more accessible?
Start by listening to people who have lived experience. Engage with the community to understand their needs and experiences. It’s about breaking down barriers and making sure everyone feels welcome. Simple changes can make a big difference, like ensuring accessible pathways and seating options, but it all begins with understanding, and willingness to listen and learn by creating an open dialogue.
What is your number one festival moment?
I’ve been lucky enough to attend festivals around the world but a few stand out for me. Rapping with Wu-Tang Clan on stage at Meredith in Victoria is a highlight. Seeing one of my best mates Dom Dolla play mainstage at Coachella is certainly up there as you’ve been witness to all the hard work that goes into a show like that by him and his team so to see it come to life is pretty special.
How do you think the festival community can help the disability community?
The festival community can lead the way by prioritising accessibility in all areas – physical access, sensory accommodations, and representation. There are some incredible artists out there with a disability who would make a killer headline act. By including diverse voices both on stage and behind the scenes, we can create more inclusive spaces that enhance the experience for everyone.
How do you think the disability community can help the festival community?
We bring a unique perspective and a different lens on creativity. By being encouraged to share our experiences, ideas and talents, we can help festivals level up and create an unreal experience for everyone. Our voices matter because we’re ticket purchasers, too and so by being heard and seeing change implemented, this enriches the entire community.
“I want Ability Fest to inspire a cultural shift in how we think about disability in the music and event space. ”
Where do you see Ability Fest going in the next 5 years? 10 years?
In the next five years, I hope to see Ability Fest expand to more cities around Australia. We’re super excited to be holding Ability Fest in Brisbane this year for the first time ever, and can’t wait to be able to share the festival with other states in the future. In ten years, I hope Ability Fest is a global movement where festivals everywhere prioritise accessibility and inclusion. I want Ability Fest to inspire a cultural shift in how we think about disability in the music and event space.
Do you have a message for everyone attending Ability Fest?
Embrace the moment, connect with each other, and just have a great time. This festival is for everyone – be loud, be proud, and enjoy everything that live music has to offer!
Interview by Laura Simmons
October 2024