Queensland Performing Arts Centre Archives

Get Ready to Defy Gravity: ‘Wicked’ Soars into Brisbane’s Lyric Theatre

Nine years after its last visit, the magical land of Oz will once again descend upon the Queensland Performing Arts Centre in West End as Broadway sensation “Wicked” returns in September to captivate Brisbane audiences.

After an eagerly awaited hiatus, the return of “Wicked” to QPAC is a big deal for both the performing arts community and eager fans. The show will reveal the hidden stories behind the characters that people have loved for generations. The music will be unforgettable; the choreography will be breathtaking; and the experience will be completely immersive.

Taking place in Oz, the musical is about how Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, and Glinda, the famous Good Witch of the North, become friends in a strange way. As their lives become linked, the story of friendship, love, and the power of acceptance becomes spellbinding.

“We are thrilled to welcome back ‘Wicked,’ giving audiences the chance to experience the magic of live theatre once again,” QPAC Managing Director Jane Smith said. “People all over the world have continued to enjoy this show, and we’re excited to bring its charming story back to Brisbane,” she added.

The return of “Wicked” is a testament to the popularity of Broadway standards. There is a palpable sense of excitement and anticipation for this limited engagement run.

Tickets are now available, promising an unforgettable theatrical experience for theatregoers of all ages.

BOOK HERE

For more information and ticket bookings, visit QPAC’s official website or contact the box office directly.

Published 25-March-2024

Homeless Man Shares His Passion for Piano Outside QPAC

An amazing musical talent can be seen performing every day right outside the Queensland Performing Arts Centre. Meet Shane, a familiar sight at the Cultural Precinct, homeless but not friend-less, as he shares his talent on the piano with a growing list of admirers.

It all started when a young Shane walked by a ballet school in the inner Brisbane suburb of West End and heard his first piano music. He didn’t know what it was. He just knew it touched a chord inside him and he wanted to make music like that.

Since then, Shane has been playing a public piano outside QPAC because he says he does not get shunned away or hassled when he is there. He says when he sees a piano, he gets an urge to play it.

Completely self-taught, Shane’s fingers glide effortlessly across the keys, bringing the instrument to life. The lack of formal music education doesn’t seem to hamper him as he plays whatever popular music comes to mind, showing admiring onlookers how music can break through the barriers of poverty and homelessness.

Shane outside QPAC — Photo Credit: 7NEWS

To those who watch him play, Shane’s story is about more than just his musical talent. His performance is a remarkable display of how music can heal and transform.

When he plays, Shane says he finds solace and a way to express himself. His music brings people together, offering a sense of unity that goes beyond societal barriers.

On most days, Shane can be found outside QPAC, ready to share his talent with anyone and everyone who will stop and listen.

Published 22-May-2023

Rocky Horror Show Comes Back to Brisbane

Hot Patootie, bless my soul! Frank N Furter and the gang are back to bring the world’s favourite rock n’ roll musical to Brisbane.

The global hit Rocky Horror Show is on the road again, this time touring Adelaide, Brisbane, Perth and Melbourne. It will be playing at South Brisbane’s Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) from 17 January 2018. The show will run for three weeks before it moves to Perth.

Event Details

What:

Rocky Horror Show

When:

17 January 2018 – 11 February 2018

Where:

Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC)
Corner Melbourne Street and Grey Street, South Brisbane

Book Now

Cult Following

Craig Mclachlan is back to reprise the role of Sweet Transvestite Frank N Furter., while Cameron Daddo will play the role of the Narrator in the classic musical known for its cult following since it first played in 1973. Expect those who have seen it before to see it again for the nth time just to delight in the Rocky experience.

Photo credit: Rocky Horror Show Australia/Facebook

Rocky Horror Show is one big party where it’s normal for the audience to come dressed up like the characters in the show, talk back lines and sing along to the catchy music.

First time to see the show? Rocky Horror Show has written up a thorough guide for virgins. It should be a good guide to… lessen the shock.

Read the Virgin’s Guide to Rocky Horror Show.

About the Musical

The musical comedy follows the adventure of newly engaged Brad and Janet. The prim-and-proper sweethearts run into tyre trouble on their way to visit their old college professor. They seek help at the castle of mad transvestite scientist Dr Frank N Furter, creator of a Frankenstein-like hunk named Rocky, “with blonde hair and a tan.”

Frank N Furter takes the wholesome couple on a naughty, sexy journey they will never forget.

The show mixes science fiction, horror B movie with a lot of sexiness to boot. The best part, of course, is the music that has enamoured audiences for decades. Sing along to classics such as Dammit Janet, Hot Patootie – Bless My Soul and Sweet Transvestite. Then, it’s time to do the pelvic thrust when they start doing The Time Warp again.