SYNC | Up - devised by AYO Momentum Leaders

SYNC | UP

Devised by AYO, NIDA & Flying Fruit Fly Circus | Momentum Leaders

Friday 27 November 5pm and 8pm

Duration: 60 minutes

What does connection look, feel, and sound like? 

AYO Momentum Leaders’ performance piece SYNC | UP is what happens when a unique cross-disciplinary cohort of creatives meets to investigate how connection is experienced in 2026. 

Conceived over six months by Australia’s best talents across orchestral performance, circus art and dramaturgy, this is a one-of-a-kind performance to be experienced. The 2026 Momentum Leaders are set to soar to new heights, both literally and figuratively. Created under the thematic premise of ‘light’, this collaboration explores the relevant social issue of connection in a digital era to shape stories of the next generation of artists in Australia.

Held at Circus Centre Melbourne, on 27 November, Arabella Renwick and Peter Giasoumi, graduates from Flying Fruit Fly Circus, will showcase their skills on aerial silks, rope and other apparatus, alongside AYO musicians – bassoonist Bailey Ireland; violinist and composer, Abigail Lui; trumpetist, Arkie Moore; cellist Cindy Masterman and percussionist Matthew Arnold – directed by NIDA graduate director, Madeleine Diggins in this exciting, new collaboration. As well as demonstrating expertise in their own craft, the performers will cross over into each other’s. Expect a few surprises.

Backed by some of Australia’s best creative voices in collaboration, the performance is a culmination of deep artistic practice which will leave audiences viewing society from a new lense.

Acknowledging the diversity of skills required to navigate a 21st century artistic career, AYO CEO, Kimbali Harding reflects: “Momentum Leaders is a bold step forward in how we prepare young artists for their careers. By bringing together musicians, composers, and theatre-makers, we are fostering a generation of creative leaders equipped to shape Australia’s cultural future with confidence and originality.”

AYO Momentum Leaders is generously supported by The Ian Potter Foundation.