Perth’s Canning Highway will become the world’s longest stage next year when it’s transformed into Highway to Hell, a free finale to to Perth Festival on Sunday, 1st March 2020.
A slew of local and international bands will be cranking out AC/DC hits from the back of semi-trailers in the evening, including Japanese alt-rockers Shonen Knife, pub rock legends Amyl and the Sniffers and even Perth Symphony Orchestra.
The event pays tribute in particular to late frontman Bon Scott, marking 40 years since the death of the rock legend who grew up in Fremantle, Western Australia. Released in 1979, Highway to Hell was the final AC/DC album to include vocals from Scott.
“For years, Bon walked this iconic southern stretch of Canning Highway from the Leopold Hotel in Palmyra to Fremantle, and AC/DC lit up the Raffles Hotel with legendary gigs,” says Perth Festival Artistic Director Iain Grandage.
“Now we’re closing the highway, all 10km of it, for one special day designed for families and fans alike.
“The idea of closing down the highway to celebrate a favourite son is an exciting way to celebrate our city and bring the curtain down on the 2020 Festival. Everyone is invited.”
Residents are encouraged to find a picnic spot with friends and family on the day. In addition to performances, the highway will include a mass singalong of ‘Highway to Hell’ at Tompkins Park, patch-making sessions with the Embroiderers Guild of WA, public talks and other activities.
Key intersections will remain open throughout the day, and Canning Highway will reopen to traffic in stages from 9pm that evening.
Perth Festival 2020 will run from 7th February to 1st March, with the full program set to be released at the end of this month. Head to the Perth Festival website for more info.
Highway to Hell
Sunday, 1st March 2020
Canning Highway, Perth
