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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
