Sophie Ellis-Bextor headlines Perth SVNS as 2027 tournament marks 100-day countdown

The Perth SVNS has confirmed its headline entertainment acts for the 2027 tournament, with British pop icon Sophie Ellis-Bextor and Australian dance-pop duo Sneaky Sound System topping the bill as the event marks 100 days until kick-off.

Ellis-Bextor, best known for her 2001 disco-pop hit ‘Murder on the Dancefloor’ — which experienced a notable chart resurgence in 2024 — will perform an Australian-exclusive set on Saturday, 6 September. Sneaky Sound System, celebrated for tracks including ‘UFO’ and ‘Pictures’, will close out the weekend on Sunday, 7 February.

“We can’t wait to get back to Perth and party with you all at HSBC SVNS next year,” Sneaky Sound System said following their announcement. “Perth knows how to throw a good party, and we’re ready to let loose with you.”

Organisers have adopted a ‘Go Tropical’ theme for the 2027 edition, leaning into the event’s reputation for hot conditions and a festival atmosphere. Plans include party zones, a dedicated stage area for headline performances, brass bands, Brazilian drummers and Pacific Island dancers. A street food truck market, dessert carts and a shaded cooling area called Palm Paradise — which will also host acoustic sets and live music — round out the off-field offering.

The 2026 edition sold out, and Rugby Australia CEO Phil Waugh indicated the 2027 event is being positioned as a major fixture on the summer calendar.

“Perth will be partying with our champion Aussie sevens stars when the world comes to town,” Waugh said. “With an international pop star and an Aussie dance icon on the bill, as well as world-class athletes building towards the Los Angeles Olympics, there’s something for everyone. Grab your loudest shirt, round up your crew and come for the rugby, the music and the atmosphere.”

Western Australia Premier Roger Cook also welcomed the announcement, highlighting Ellis-Bextor’s Australian-exclusive appearance as an additional draw for interstate visitors. “We’re encouraging everyone to make a holiday of it: arrive early or stay on, and explore our beaches, Rottnest Island, the Swan Valley and everything else that makes WA the dream state,” he said.

The Perth SVNS sits within the HSBC SVNS Series, with the 2027 tournament forming part of the build-up to the Los Angeles Olympics.