Category: What’s On Brisbane Music and Arts

It is a massive weekend for theatre lovers in Brisbane, with three major productions running simultaneously at QPAC. You have the choice between the opening of the glamorous The Great Gatsby, the final performances of the cult classic Little Shop of Horrors, or the enduring spectacle of CATS. For a romantic twist, check out the Blussh Romance Festival or a twilight jazz session by the river.

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The Great Gatsby

12 February – 8 March 2026 | Playhouse, QPAC, South Brisbane Opening Weekend:
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Step into the roaring twenties. Queensland Theatre brings F. Scott Fitzgerald’s literary masterpiece to the stage in a lavish production. Expect glitz, glamour, and tragedy as the mysterious Jay Gatsby tries to win back his lost love in a world of excess.

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Little Shop of Horrors

Until 15 February 2026 | Cremorne Theatre, QPAC, South Brisbane Last Chance:
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Don’t feed the plants! This is the final weekend to catch the sci-fi horror musical comedy before it closes. It’s a fun, campy, and musically infectious show perfect for those who like their theatre with a bite.

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CATS

6 – 22 February 2026 | Lyric Theatre, QPAC, South Brisbane
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The Jellicle Ball continues at the Lyric Theatre. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s feline phenomenon remains one of the most spectacular dance musicals of all time. It’s a must-see for families and musical theatre traditionalists.

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Blussh Romance Festival

13 – 15 February 2026 | Dendy Coorparoo
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Just in time for Valentine’s Day, the Blussh Romance Festival takes over Dendy Coorparoo. Celebrating the romance genre in all its forms—from rom-coms to period dramas—this festival features screenings, panels, and a celebration of love stories on screen.

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Bands in Parks: Twilight Jazz by the River

13 February 2026 | Queensland Maritime Museum, South Brisbane
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Enjoy a romantic and relaxed start to the weekend for free. Set against the backdrop of the city skyline and the river at the Maritime Museum, this twilight concert features smooth jazz perfect for a picnic date.

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The Bombshell’s Ball: Valentine’s Follies

14 February 2026 | Arcana, Moorooka
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For a Valentine’s date with a difference, head to Arcana. The Bombshell’s Ball is a night of cabaret, burlesque, and variety performance that promises to be cheeky, glamorous, and entertaining.

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QSO Portraits Series

13 & 14 February 2026 | Conservatorium Theatre, South Brisbane 

The Queensland Symphony Orchestra presents intimate recitals showcasing individual virtuosity.

• Alison Mitchell (Fri 13): Principal Flautist performs a program highlighting the flute’s expressive range. Tickets
• Emily Granger (Sat 14): Principal Harpist takes centre stage for a mesmerizing solo performance. Tickets

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Blue Turtles: The Music of Sting ‘Songs About Love’

14 February 2026 | Brisbane Jazz Club, Kangaroo Point
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A special Valentine’s event at the Jazz Club. Blue Turtles performs the sophisticated pop and jazz-influenced hits of Sting and The Police, curated specifically to fit the romantic theme of the evening.

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The Jazz Room: Tribute Shows

13 & 14 February 2026 | Grand on Ann, Brisbane City

• Tribute to Soul (Fri 13): Groove to the classics of Motown and R&B. Tickets
• Heart of New Orleans (Sat 14): A spirited journey through the jazz and blues of the Big Easy. Tickets

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Fiona Omeenyo: Night & Day

10 February – 14 March 2026 | FireWorks Gallery, Bowen Hills New Exhibition:
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Explore the striking works of Fiona Omeenyo, a prominent Indigenous artist from Lockhart River. Her paintings are known for their bold figures and exploration of ancestral spirits and family connection.

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Open Encounters: BrisAsia Intercultural Arts Hub

13 February 2026 | Queensland Multicultural Centre, Kangaroo Point
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Part of the BrisAsia Festival, this event is a dynamic meeting place for artists and audiences. Expect improvisational jams, cross-cultural collaborations, and a celebration of Brisbane’s diverse artistic identity.

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Free Exhibition of German Painter Christine Groh

12 – 15 February 2026 | Richard Randall Art Studio, Toowong
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Visit the beautiful heritage-listed Richard Randall Studio at the Mt Coot-tha Botanic Gardens to see a pop-up exhibition by German painter Christine Groh. It’s a lovely addition to a weekend walk in the gardens.

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In Conversation + Film: Pasa Faho

15 February 2026 | GOMA Cinema A, South Brisbane
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Join a thought-provoking session at GOMA featuring a screening of Pasa Faho followed by a discussion. This event offers deep engagement with the film’s themes and the filmmakers’ vision.

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Brisbane’s cultural calendar is absolutely stacked this weekend. The convergence of Valentine’s Day with major theatre openings means you are spoiled for choice. If you can’t get tickets to the big QPAC shows, the Blussh Romance Festival or the Twilight Jazz by the river offer excellent, atmospheric alternatives.

This weekend sees the return of one of the world’s most controversial and beloved musicals, CATS, to the Lyric Theatre. Classical music lovers are spoiled for choice with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra performing their greatest hits, while the Brisbane Jazz Club offers a packed weekend of swing and big band sounds.

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CATS

6 – 22 February 2026 | Lyric Theatre, QPAC, South Brisbane Opening Weekend:
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The Jellicle Ball has returned to Brisbane. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s record-breaking musical opens this Friday, bringing T.S. Eliot’s poetry to life with its iconic score, spectacular choreography, and “Memory,” one of the most famous songs in musical theatre history.

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QSO Favourites

7 – 8 February 2026 | Concert Hall, QPAC, South Brisbane
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Whether you are a classical connoisseur or a newcomer, this concert is the perfect entry point. The Queensland Symphony Orchestra performs a selection of the most beloved orchestral masterpieces—the music that has defined history and cinema—in two special performances this weekend.

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The Vicar of Dibley

6 – 15 February 2026 | Ron Hurley Theatre, Seven Hills
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No, no, no, no… yes! The sleepy village of Dibley comes to Seven Hills in this stage adaptation of the hit British sitcom. Expect all your favourite eccentric characters and belly laughs as the community reacts to the arrival of their new female vicar.

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Sculptures & Sips

6 February 2026 | Dead Puppet Society, Woolloongabba
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Unleash your inner artist with a glass of wine in hand. Held at the headquarters of the world-renowned Dead Puppet Society, this workshop invites you to sculpt your own creation while enjoying a relaxed, social atmosphere.

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Workshop: Relief Printmaking with Tamika Grant-Iramu

7 February 2026 | Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA), South Brisbane
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Learn from a master printmaker in this exclusive workshop. Tamika Grant-Iramu guides participants through the intricate process of relief printmaking, drawing inspiration from the natural world to create unique, textured works of art.

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The Boor

6 February 2026 | Sandgate Town Hall, Sandgate
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Head to the historic Sandgate Town Hall for a one-night-only performance of Chekhov’s “The Boor.” This classic one-act comedy explores the thin line between love and hate, promising a witty and engaging evening of theatre by the bay.

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Brisbane Jazz Club Weekend

6 – 8 February 2026 | Kangaroo Point 

A massive weekend of music at the city’s home of jazz:

• Friday: Caxton Street Jazz Band – Brisbane icons delivering hot jazz and swing. Tickets
• Saturday: Karen Anderson & the Fortunate Sinners – Soulful vocals and smooth grooves. Tickets
• Sunday: The Queensland Jazz Orchestra – A powerful big band performance to wrap up the week. Tickets

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Tyrone & Lesley’s 10th Album Launch: Keepers

7 February 2026 | Alchemix, South Brisbane
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Quirky, charming, and distinctly Brisbane, the ukulele-bass duo Tyrone & Lesley launch their tenth album. Expect an evening of witty songwriting, gentle humour, and “human” music in an intimate studio setting.

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In Conversation: Un/tethered

7 February 2026 | Queensland Museum Kurilpa, South Brisbane
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Delve into the themes of memory and cultural connection. This conversation event brings together artists and thinkers to discuss the role of matriarchs and the threads that bind generations, complementing the museum’s cultural exhibitions.

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Artist in Residence: Sara Nejad

31 January – 22 February 2026 | Museum of Brisbane, Brisbane City
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Visit the Museum of Brisbane to see artist-in-residence Sara Nejad at work. Her residency explores themes of displacement and identity through intricate illustration and animation, offering visitors a glimpse into her creative process.

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The Jazz Room: Tribute to The Blues

7 February 2026 | Grand on Ann, Brisbane City
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Immerse yourself in the gritty, soulful sounds of the blues. The Jazz Room presents a tribute night featuring a live band performing classics that defined the genre, all set within a speakeasy-style atmosphere.

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Lunar New Year Calligraphy Scrolls

7 February 2026 | Garden City Library, Upper Mount Gravatt
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Celebrate the Lunar New Year with creativity. This free workshop teaches the traditional art of calligraphy, allowing participants to create their own festive scrolls to welcome the new year with good fortune.

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Splash

21 January – 15 February 2026 | Royal Queensland Art Society, Brisbane City
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Dive into this water-themed exhibition at the Petrie Terrace gallery. Splash showcases a variety of local works celebrating the ocean, rivers, and rain, perfect for a quiet cultural stop in the city.

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This weekend offers a fantastic balance of high-end spectacle and community creativity. You can experience the grandeur of CATS or the QSO at South Bank, or opt for a more hands-on approach with a printmaking workshop at GOMA or a sculpture class in Woolloongabba. It’s a perfect time to re-engage with Brisbane’s cultural scene as the year gets into full swing.

This weekend marks the final curtain call for two of QPAC’s biggest summer shows, Annie and Cluedo, making it the last chance to catch these major productions. Meanwhile, the visual arts scene kicks off the year with a triple exhibition opening at the Institute of Modern Art, and the historic St John’s Cathedral lights up for a series of atmospheric concerts.

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Annie

27 December 2025 – 31 January 2026 | Lyric Theatre, QPAC, South Brisbane Last Chance:
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The sun is about to come out for the very last time. This is the final weekend to see the joyous, optimistic, and classic musical Annie before it bumps out of the Lyric Theatre. Don’t miss the chance to hear “Tomorrow” live on stage one last time.

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Cluedo

7 January – 1 February 2026 | Playhouse, QPAC, South Brisbane Closing Weekend:
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It’s game over for the residents of Boddy Manor. This hilarious murder-mystery play, based on the classic board game and the cult movie, wraps up its Brisbane season on Sunday. Grab a ticket to solve the puzzle before the killer escapes.

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Candlelight: The World of Joe Hisaishi

30 January 2026 | St John’s Cathedral, Brisbane City
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 Immerse yourself in the magical soundscapes of Studio Ghibli. The grandeur of St John’s Cathedral provides the perfect acoustic backdrop for a string quartet performing the emotive and whimsical scores of Joe Hisaishi, featuring music from Spirited Away, My Neighbor Totoro, and more.

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Exhibition Opening: Platform, John Stezaker, Superstudio & Archigram

30 January 2026 | Institute of Modern Art, Fortitude Valley
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Celebrate the launch of the IMA’s 2026 program with a massive opening night event. Be among the first to see three new exhibitions: John Stezaker: Kisses and Trains, Archigram and Superstudio, and the Platform series. Expect a buzzing crowd, drinks, and cutting-edge contemporary art.

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Candlelight: Tributes to ABBA & Ed Sheeran

31 January 2026 | St John’s Cathedral, Brisbane City

The candlelight series continues on Saturday with two distinct tributes.

• Tribute to ABBA: Dance in your seat to classical renditions of “Dancing Queen” and “Mamma Mia”. Get Tickets
• Tribute to Ed Sheeran: Enjoy intimate string versions of “Perfect”, “Shape of You”, and “Bad Habits”. Get Tickets

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Blanc de Blanc Encore

Extended until 15 March 2026 | The West End Electric, West End
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The champagne is still flowing at West End. Due to popular demand, this hedonistic blend of circus, cabaret, and comedy has extended its season. It’s the perfect choice for a rowdy, glamorous, adult-only night out.

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The Godfather

30 January 2026 | GOMA Cinema A, South Brisbane
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See one of the greatest films ever made on the big screen. The Gallery of Modern Art presents a special screening of Francis Ford Coppola’s crime masterpiece, The Godfather. It is a rare opportunity to experience the Corleone family saga in a proper cinematic setting.

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Ballet of Lights: Cinderella in a Sparkling Show

31 January 2026 | QUT Gardens Theatre, Brisbane City
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Experience the fairy tale like never before. This production combines the grace of ballet with advanced LED technology, creating a visually stunning performance where the costumes and sets glow and shift in time with the dance.

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Billy Missi’n Wakain Thamai

Until 22 February 2026 | State Library of Queensland, South Brisbane
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Explore the work of Billy Missi, a significant artist from the Western Torres Strait. This exhibition showcases his intricate linocuts that document the cultural practices, vegetation, and stories of his home, Zenadh Kes.

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The Jazz Room: A Journey to the Heart of New Orleans

31 January 2026 | Grand on Ann, Brisbane City
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Transport yourself to the French Quarter without leaving the city. The Jazz Room presents a spirited night of New Orleans jazz, promising foot-tapping rhythms, soulful brass, and a vibrant atmosphere at the Grand on Ann.

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Splash

21 January – 15 February 2026 | Royal Queensland Art Society, Brisbane City
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Dive into the world of aquatic art at the Petrie Terrace gallery. Splash is a themed exhibition featuring works that celebrate water in all its forms, from the ocean to the rain, created by talented local artists.

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Don’t miss the final performances of Annie and Cluedo at QPAC! Plus, explore new exhibitions at the IMA and enjoy candlelight concerts. Brisbane arts guide for 30 Jan – 1 Feb.

As the curtain falls on 2025, Brisbane’s cultural sector is delivering a stellar lineup of entertainment. New Year’s Eve offers everything from champagne-soaked cabaret and jazz galas to exclusive film previews. Moving into the first week of January, the city’s stages light up with major musical theatre productions, while the galleries continue to host blockbuster international and local exhibitions.

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Annie

27 December 2025 – 31 January 2026 | Lyric Theatre, QPAC, South Brisbane
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One of the world’s best-loved musicals lights up the Lyric Theatre for a summer season. With its optimistic spirit and a score full of timeless hits like “Tomorrow,” this production is a perfect feel-good theatrical experience for families and musical theatre fans alike.

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BLANC DE BLANC ENCORE

31 December 2025 – 8 February 2026 | The West End Electric, West End
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The hedonistic world of Blanc de Blanc returns just in time for the ultimate New Year’s Eve party. Expect a blend of vintage glamour, high-end circus, and risqué cabaret, all served with a side of champagne in the intimate surrounds of The West End Electric.

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Little Shop of Horrors

3 January 2026 | Cremorne Theatre, QPAC, South Brisbane
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Feed the plant! The sci-fi horror musical with a 1960s pop/rock score comes to the Cremorne Theatre. Follow the story of Seymour and his bloodthirsty plant, Audrey II, in this cult classic that blends dark comedy with catchy tunes.

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Olafur Eliasson: Presence

6 December 2025 – 12 July 2026 | Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA), South Brisbane
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This major exhibition by Icelandic-Danish artist Olafur Eliasson is a must-see at GOMA. Known for his large-scale installation art employing elemental materials such as light, water, and air, Eliasson creates immersive environments that challenge the viewer’s perception of space.

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New Year’s Eve 2025 with The Mark Pradella Band & Peter Vance

31 December 2025 | Brisbane Jazz Club, Kangaroo Point
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Swing into 2026 by the river with the sounds of The Mark Pradella Band. Featuring vocalist Peter Vance, this event promises a sophisticated night of classic jazz, dining, and spectacular views of the city skyline as the year comes to a close.

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New Year’s Eve Event Previews: The Choral OR Song Song Blue!

31 December 2025 | Palace Cinemas (James St, Barracks)
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Film buffs can celebrate the New Year with exclusive preview screenings at Palace Cinemas. Choose between highly anticipated titles and enjoy a glass of sparkling wine upon arrival, making for a relaxed and cultural start to the evening.

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Rhydian Lewis presents his Tribute to Michael Bublé

4 January 2026 | Brisbane Jazz Club, Kangaroo Point
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End the week with the smooth crooning of Rhydian Lewis. His tribute to Michael Bublé captures the charisma and vocal style of the modern-day swing king, featuring all the hits that have made Bublé a household name.

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Cribb Island: Brisbane’s Lost Suburb

Until 26 July 2026 | Museum of Brisbane, Brisbane City
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Explore the fascinating history of “Cribby,” the seaside suburb that was demolished to make way for the Brisbane Airport. This exhibition uncovers the stories, memories, and community spirit of a unique part of Brisbane’s past.

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Under a Modern Sun: Art in Queensland 1930s–1950s

16 August 2025 – 26 January 2026 | Queensland Art Gallery (QAG), South Brisbane
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Discover the evolution of modernism in the Sunshine State. This exhibition showcases how Queensland artists responded to the light, landscape, and lifestyle of the region during the mid-20th century, capturing a pivotal era in local art history.

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Something Borrowed: Appropriation in Australian Art

7 June 2025 – 26 January 2026 | Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA), South Brisbane
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Closing soon, this exhibition examines the practice of appropriation in Australian art. It features works where artists have borrowed, remixed, and recontextualised existing images and styles to comment on culture, identity, and history.

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Caxton Street Jazz Band

2 January 2026 | Brisbane Jazz Club, Kangaroo Point
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One of Brisbane’s most enduring jazz ensembles takes the stage to kickstart the musical year. The Caxton Street Jazz Band delivers a hot mix of traditional jazz and swing that is guaranteed to get toes tapping.

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To Sergio with Love

3 January 2026 | Brisbane Jazz Club, Kangaroo Point
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A special tribute concert celebrating the musical legacy of Sergio Mendes. Expect a night of infectious bossa nova rhythms and Brazilian jazz classics performed by a talented local ensemble.

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The variety of entertainment available over the New Year period ensures that every taste is catered for. From the glitz of cabaret and the grandeur of musical theatre to the quiet contemplation of art galleries and the nostalgia of local history, Brisbane is starting 2026 with a flourish. Be sure to catch the exhibitions at QAG and GOMA that are closing in January before they are gone.

As the year comes to a close, Brisbane’s cultural institutions remain vibrant with a diverse offering of major exhibitions and stage productions. From the uplifting return of a Broadway classic at QPAC to cutting-edge installations at GOMA and thought-provoking local history displays in Moreton Bay, there is plenty to explore during the summer break. These exhibitions provide a perfect air-conditioned escape for art lovers and families alike.

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Annie

27 December 2025 – 3 January 2026 | Lyric Theatre, QPAC, South Brisbane
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The sun will come out tomorrow! The world’s favourite family musical returns to the QPAC stage for a special summer run. Featuring the iconic red-headed heroine and a score of beloved hits, this production promises to be an uplifting theatrical treat for the holiday season.

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Olafur Eliasson: Presence

6 December 2025 – 12 July 2026 | Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA), South Brisbane
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One of the most anticipated exhibitions of the year, this major solo presentation by Olafur Eliasson invites visitors to explore light, colour, and perception. Through large-scale installations and sculptures, Eliasson challenges the way we interact with space and nature in a truly immersive experience.

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Make a Scene: Fashioning Queer Identity and Club Culture in the 90s

Until 19 July 2026 | Queensland Museum Kurilpa, South Brisbane
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Step back into the 1990s with this vibrant exhibition celebrating the fashion, music, and community of Brisbane’s queer club scene. It highlights the creativity and resilience of the era, featuring costumes, archival footage, and personal stories from a pivotal decade.

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Vipoo Srivilasa: Express Yourself

11 October 2025 – 13 September 2026 | Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA), South Brisbane
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Acclaimed Thai-born, Australian-based artist Vipoo Srivilasa presents a participatory project centred on creativity and healing. Visitors are invited to engage with his whimsical ceramic figures and contribute to an evolving installation that celebrates joy and community connection.

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Teho Ropeyarn – Middle World: Every change a continuation, every season a story

12 – 20 December 2025, 12 – 24 January 2026 | Onespace, South Brisbane
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Teho Ropeyarn, a significant First Nations artist from Injinoo, presents his latest body of work. Middle World explores the cultural narratives, seasonal changes, and deep connection to Country that define his practice, offered in the intimate setting of Onespace gallery.

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Contemporaries

12 December 2025 – 10 January 2026 | Parker Contemporary, South Brisbane
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Parker Contemporary hosts a dynamic group exhibition featuring a selection of modern artists. This show provides a snapshot of current artistic practices, offering collectors and enthusiasts a chance to view diverse works in a commercial gallery setting.

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Whether you are in the mood for a blockbuster musical or a quiet afternoon wandering through a gallery, the end-of-year schedule caters to all tastes. With many of these exhibitions running well into 2026, there is ample time to plan a visit, but the limited season of Annie at QPAC makes it a priority for theatregoers this week.

This weekend offers a sophisticated blend of high culture and festive nostalgia. Art enthusiasts are spoilt for choice with major international exhibitions from Banksy and Olafur Eliasson running concurrently. On stage, the Christmas spirit is in full swing with classic tales like A Christmas Carol and The Nutcracker, alongside a live orchestral screening of Tim Burton’s holiday cult classic.

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The Art of Banksy “Without Limits” Chapter Two – Celebrating 10 years of Defiance

Starting November 2025 | Uptown, Brisbane City
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This massive exhibition features over 150 artworks, photos, sculptures, and immersive installations by the world’s most elusive street artist. It serves as a comprehensive overview of Banksy’s career, exploring themes of politics, war, and capitalism with his signature satirical edge.

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Olafur Eliasson: Presence

6 December 2025 – 12 July 2026 | Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA), South Brisbane
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A major highlight of the cultural calendar, this exhibition by Icelandic-Danish artist Olafur Eliasson transforms GOMA into a playground of light, colour, and geometry. Visitors can interact with large-scale installations that challenge perception and explore the relationship between humans and nature.

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A Christmas Carol

12 – 24 December 2025 | Playhouse, QPAC, South Brisbane
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The award-winning shake & stir theatre co. returns with their acclaimed adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic. Featuring stunning design and live music, this production is a visual feast that captures the redemption of Scrooge in heartwarming detail.

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The Nightmare Before Christmas in Concert

18 – 19 December 2025 | Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, South Brisbane
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Experience Tim Burton’s holiday masterpiece like never before. The film will be screened live while a full symphony orchestra performs Danny Elfman’s iconic score, blending the magic of cinema with the power of live music.

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Brisbane City Youth Ballet: The Nutcracker

20 – 21 December 2025 | Powerhouse Theatre, Brisbane Powerhouse, New Farm
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The Brisbane City Youth Ballet presents a delightful rendition of the traditional Christmas favourite. Perfect for families, this production showcases the talent of young local dancers in a magical journey to the Land of Sweets.

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Love, Actually? The Musical Parody

11 – 21 December 2025 | Royal International Convention Centre, Bowen Hills
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Whether you love it or love to hate it, this musical parody hilariously dissects the classic rom-com. Expect quick wit, catchy songs, and a good-natured roast of the film’s most famous (and questionable) plotlines.

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Candlelight: Christmas Movie Soundtracks

20 December 2025 | St John’s Cathedral, Brisbane City
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Immerse yourself in the music of holiday cinema within the stunning gothic architecture of St John’s Cathedral. A string quartet performs beloved tracks from films like Home Alone and Love Actually surrounded by the glow of thousands of candles.

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Candlelight: A Night of Christmas Classics

19 December 2025 | St John’s Cathedral, Brisbane City
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Another enchanting evening at the Cathedral, this concert focuses on traditional carols and classical festive pieces. The combination of the string quartet and the candlelight creates a serene and spiritual atmosphere perfect for the season.

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Echoes of Christmas 2025 — Festive Classical Concert

20 December 2025 | Saint Andrew’s Uniting Church, Brisbane City
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Enjoy a refined evening of classical music in the heart of the city. This concert features a repertoire of sacred and secular Christmas works, celebrating the joy and beauty of the season in a historic setting.

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Yuriyal Eric Bridgeman: ‘Six2Six’

5 – 20 December 2025 | Milani Gallery, West End
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It is the final weekend to view this exhibition by Yuriyal Eric Bridgeman. Known for his work exploring identity and sport, this show at Milani Gallery offers a compelling contemporary perspective before it closes.

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The Cliffnotes of Insanity

17 – 19 December 2025 | Arcana Empress Theatre, Moorooka
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Head to Moorooka for a dose of independent theatre. The Cliffnotes of Insanity promises an engaging and perhaps unconventional performance at the Arcana Empress Theatre, a hub for Brisbane’s grassroots creative community.

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Magdalena Wozniak

15 – 21 December 2025 | Jan Manton Gallery, Teneriffe
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Explore the works of Magdalena Wozniak in this solo exhibition at Teneriffe’s Jan Manton Gallery. This is a great opportunity to engage with local contemporary art in one of the city’s most vibrant precincts.

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The Mojo Webb Band

19 December 2025 | Brisbane Jazz Club, Kangaroo Point
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Kick off the weekend with one of Brisbane’s finest blues acts. Mojo Webb and his band bring authentic grit, powerful vocals, and masterful guitar work to the riverside stage for a night of high-energy entertainment.

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The Slowhand Sultans featuring Tim Gaze & Mick Melit

20 December 2025 | Brisbane Jazz Club, Kangaroo Point
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Guitar fans are in for a treat as veterans Tim Gaze and Mick Melit pay tribute to the greats. Expect a night of polished blues and rock guitar work in the relaxed atmosphere of the Jazz Club.

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Brisbane Big Band with Special Guest Melissa

21 December 2025 | Brisbane Jazz Club, Kangaroo Point
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Wrap up the weekend with the full, brassy sound of the Brisbane Big Band. Joined by guest vocalist Melissa, this Sunday session will feature swinging jazz standards and perhaps a few festive tunes.

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Lunchtime Christmas Carols

19 December 2025 | Queen Street Mall, Brisbane City
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Take a break from holiday shopping and enjoy the festive sounds of carols in the Mall. This free event brings live entertainment to the city centre, adding a cheerful soundtrack to the lunchtime rush.

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Brisbane is truly alive with creativity this weekend, balancing blockbuster art exhibitions with the warmth of traditional Christmas performances. With several shows having limited runs or closing this week, such as the exhibition at Milani Gallery, it is the perfect time to soak up the city’s cultural offerings before the holiday break begins in earnest.

Brisbane’s cultural calendar hits its peak this week with the arrival of the city’s most cherished Christmas traditions. From the Queensland Ballet’s iconic production of The Nutcracker to the massive literary treasure hunt that is Lifeline Bookfest, the schedule is packed with major events. Art lovers also have a reason to celebrate with the opening of a blockbuster exhibition at GOMA, ensuring a vibrant mix of performance and visual arts across the river city.

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The Nutcracker

5 – 13 December 2025 | Lyric Theatre, QPAC, South Brisbane
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A quintessential part of a Brisbane Christmas, the Queensland Ballet returns with Ben Stevenson’s enchanting production of The Nutcracker. Journey to the Land of Sweets with Clara and her Nutcracker Prince in a performance filled with snowflake flurries, waltzing flowers, and Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable score.

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Olafur Eliasson: Presence

6 December 2025 – 12 July 2026 | Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA), South Brisbane
Get Tickets

This major solo exhibition by internationally acclaimed Icelandic-Danish artist Olafur Eliasson explores the intersection of nature, geometry, and human perception. Visitors can expect immersive installations that play with light, water, and space, offering a transformative gallery experience.

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A Christmas Carol

12 – 24 December 2025 | Playhouse, QPAC, South Brisbane
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The award-winning shake & stir theatre co. brings Charles Dickens’ timeless tale of redemption back to the stage. Featuring lavish costumes, live music, and impressive stagecraft, this production has become a must-see annual tradition for theatre lovers.

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Lifeline Bookfest Brisbane

13 – 17 December 2025 | Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, South Brisbane
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Queensland’s biggest second-hand book event returns for its summer edition. With millions of books on sale starting from as little as $2.50, it is a paradise for readers and collectors, with all proceeds supporting Lifeline’s 24-hour crisis support services.

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Sweet Charity

11 – 14 December 2025 | Concert Hall, QPAC, South Brisbane
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Experience the rhythm and energy of Broadway in the QPAC Concert Hall. This limited run of the classic musical follows the romantic trials of dance hall hostess Charity Hope Valentine, featuring iconic songs like “Big Spender” and “If My Friends Could See Me Now.”

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Love, Actually? The Musical Parody

11 – 21 December 2025 | Royal International Convention Centre, Bowen Hills
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For those who love (or love to hate) the holiday film classic, this musical parody delivers a hilarious send-up. Expect a witty, fast-paced show that pokes fun at the rom-com tropes and tangled storylines of the original movie.

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The Christmas Spectacular

13 – 14 December 2025 | The Fortitude Music Hall, Fortitude Valley
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The Fortitude Music Hall transforms into a festive wonderland for this variety showcase. Featuring a lineup of talented performers, dancers, and vocalists, this spectacular promises a high-energy celebration of Christmas cheer in the heart of the Valley.

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An Evening with the James Morrison Quartet

12 – 13 December 2025 | Brisbane Jazz Club, Kangaroo Point
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Australian jazz legend James Morrison brings his world-class quartet to the intimate setting of the Brisbane Jazz Club. Over two nights, audiences will be treated to virtuosic trumpet playing and smooth swing by the river.

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Australian Pole Championships

12 December 2025 | La Boite Theatre, Kelvin Grove
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Witness incredible feats of strength and artistry as the nation’s best pole athletes compete for the title. This championship showcases the athleticism and creativity of the sport in a theatrical setting at La Boite.

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Handel’s Messiah (arranged by Mozart)

13 December 2025 | The Old Museum, Bowen Hills
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Enjoy a unique performance of Handel’s masterpiece, as arranged by Mozart. Set in the historic Old Museum, this choral and orchestral event offers a fresh perspective on the “Hallelujah” chorus and other sacred classics.

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Candlelight Ballet: Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake & More

12 December 2025 | St John’s Cathedral, Brisbane City
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The gothic architecture of St John’s Cathedral provides a stunning backdrop for this multi-sensory experience. A string quartet plays classical ballet favourites while surrounded by thousands of flickering candles.

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The Queensland Choir – Sounds of the Season

12 December 2025 | The Old Museum, Bowen Hills
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Immerse yourself in the spirit of Christmas with one of the state’s premier choirs. This concert features a repertoire of traditional carols and festive anthems, perfect for ringing in the holidays.

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Candlelight: Tribute to Queen

13 December 2025 | St John’s Cathedral, Brisbane City
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Rock anthems meet classical strings in this unique tribute event. Hear stripped-back, instrumental versions of Queen’s greatest hits, performed under the soaring arches of the cathedral by candlelight.

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Duelling Pianos: Mitchell Dormer & Bodhi Acton

13 December 2025 | The Tivoli, Fortitude Valley
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Prepare for a raucous night of request-driven music and comedy. Two pianos and two performers go head-to-head, delivering crowd favourites and singalongs in an energetic, interactive show.

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Candlelight: 90’s Unplugged on Strings

13 December 2025 | St John’s Cathedral, Brisbane City
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Relive the grunge and pop hits of the 1990s in a completely new way. A string ensemble performs unplugged arrangements of the decade’s defining tracks in a serene, candlelit atmosphere.

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Queensland Wind Orchestra – Fast Forward

14 December 2025 | The Old Museum, Bowen Hills
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The Queensland Wind Orchestra concludes their year with “Fast Forward,” a dynamic concert showcasing contemporary wind band repertoire. Expect powerful brass, intricate woodwinds, and driving percussion.

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Awards Season Preview: Sentimental Value

14 December 2025 | Palace James St Cinema, Fortitude Valley
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Cinema buffs can catch an early screening of the highly anticipated Sentimental Value. As part of the Awards Season Previews, this is a chance to see a potential Oscar contender before its general release.

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L’opéra Mouffe and Saute ma ville

13 December 2025 | Institute of Modern Art, Fortitude Valley
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The Institute of Modern Art presents a screening of two seminal experimental films. This event offers a deep dive into avant-garde cinema, perfect for art students and film historians looking for something off the beaten track.

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With such a diverse lineup, Brisbane residents are spoilt for choice this December. Whether you prefer the elegance of the ballet, the history of the Old Museum, or the bargain-hunting thrill of Bookfest, there is an event to suit every taste. Given the popularity of the seasonal productions like The Nutcracker and A Christmas Carol, securing tickets early is highly recommended.