Indigenous-led Dungeons & Dragons experience Dungeons & Damper set for Vivid 2026

Dungeons & Damper: Inside the D20, an Indigenous-led Dungeons & Dragons initiative, will be the highlight of Vivid 2026 in Sydney. Developed by Wonnarua writer-directors Maddison and George Coles, with assistance from Studio Gilay and creative Brooke Collard, this immersive experience challenges participants to engage with a Creation Spirit while exploring Indigenous storytelling and Country. It tackles the real-life consequences of mining and environmental issues through a fantasy lens. Free ticketed gameplay sessions will take place on May 30-31 at the University of Technology, Sydney. The Coles sisters, inspired by films like Steven Spielberg's Amazing Stories, spent years on this project, consulting with knowledge holders such as Bundjalung chef Mindy Woods and filmmaker Pauline Clague. They reimagined D&D classes to highlight Indigenous knowledge, modifying language, rules, and lore. Supported by Vivid MINDS, George Coles emphasized the importance of Vivid's backing, aiming to foster a culturally safe environment for First Nations representation in tabletop roleplaying, while remaining inclusive for non-Indigenous players.