Category: What’s On Brisbane Music and Arts

Explore Brisbane’s art and culture scene this weekend! From immersive candlelight tributes and opera to thought-provoking theatre and major exhibitions, here’s what’s happening for lovers of the arts.

Friday, 4 July 2025

Candlelight: Tribute to Queen
St. John’s Cathedral, Brisbane City
Category: Tribute music, classical
Get Tickets

Candlelight: A Tribute to Ed Sheeran
St. John’s Cathedral, Brisbane City
Category: Tribute music, classical
Get Tickets

Philip Moss Trio
JMI Live, Bowen Hills
Category: Jazz
Get Tickets

Caxton Street Jazz Band
Brisbane Jazz Club, Kangaroo Point
Category: Jazz
Get Tickets

Latin Cabaret: La Vida Es Un Cabaret
Underground Theatre, Brisbane Powerhouse, New Farm
Category: Dance, music and performing arts
Get Tickets

The Boor (Opera)
Fate Space, West End
Category: Opera
Get Tickets

Zig Zag Street
Ron Hurley Theatre, Seven Hills
Category: Theatre
Get Tickets

Saturday, 5 July 2025

The Queensland Jazz Orchestra
Brisbane Jazz Club, Kangaroo Point
Category: Jazz
Get Tickets

The Boor (Opera)
Fate Space, West End
Category: Opera
Get Tickets

Zig Zag Street
Ron Hurley Theatre, Seven Hills
Category: Theatre
Get Tickets

The Fairy Queen
Powerhouse Theatre, Brisbane Powerhouse, New Farm
Category: Ballet
Get Tickets

Sunday, 6 July 2025

NAIDOC 2025: Yaggara Kakka
City Botanic Gardens, Brisbane City
Category: Cultural, community, family
Get Tickets

My Fatherland
The Old Museum, Bowen Hills
Category: Orchestra
Get Tickets

David Bentley Trio + 1
Brisbane Jazz Club, Kangaroo Point
Category: Jazz
Get Tickets

The Fairy Queen
Powerhouse Theatre, Brisbane Powerhouse, New Farm
Category: Ballet
Get Tickets

Zig Zag Street
Ron Hurley Theatre, Seven Hills
Category: Theatre
Get Tickets

Ongoing Exhibitions

Scenes From a Yellow Peril
3–12 July 2025
Cremorne Theatre, QPAC, South Brisbane
Category: Theatre
Get Tickets

Great and Small: Indigenous Australian Art
21 June – 3 May 2025
Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA), South Brisbane
Category: Art exhibit
Get Tickets

Jun Chen
24 June – 19 July 2025
Philip Bacon Galleries, Fortitude Valley
Category: Art exhibit
Get Tickets

ARTificial Intelligence
24 June – 5 July 2025
Webb Gallery, QCA Griffith University, South Brisbane
Category: Art exhibit
Get Tickets

Creative Generation 2025: Excellence Awards in Visual Art
31 May – 31 August 2025
GOMA, South Brisbane
Category: Art exhibit
Get Tickets

ingkwia tjaiya, lyaartinya tjaiya (Old Way, New Way)
31 May – 26 October 2025
GOMA, South Brisbane
Category: Art exhibit
Get Tickets

Whether you’re in the mood for jazz by the river, candlelight tributes in a cathedral, avant-garde theatre or world-class exhibitions, Brisbane is brimming with creative energy this weekend. Make the most of the 4–6 July 2025 lineup and feed your artistic soul with inspiration, rhythm, and community.

From jazz and cinema to powerful theatre and whimsical ballet, Brisbane’s arts scene this weekend is vibrant, expressive, and rich with variety. Whether you’re up for Shakespeare with a twist, a classic musical, or gallery-hopping with the kids, here’s your curated guide to the cultural goings-on.

Friday, 27 June 2025

DragSpeare: Drag Kings Do Shakespeare
New Benner Theatre, Metro Arts, West End
Shakespeare like you’ve never seen—drag, wit and powerful performances.
Get Tickets

A Trip to the Moon + Moulin Rouge! (1902–2001)
Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA), South Brisbane
A magical film double feature blending fantasy and bohemian flair.
Get Tickets

Ashleigh Denning
Brisbane Jazz Club, Kangaroo Point
Elegant vocals and classic jazz stylings from a local gem.
Get Tickets

Amy Lehpamer Sings Cole Porter
Opera Queensland Studio, South Brisbane
A sparkling tribute to one of the greats of American song.
Get Tickets

Peter and the Wolf – My First Ballet
Thomas Dixon Centre, West End
A gentle ballet experience perfect for little art lovers.
Get Tickets

Triple Bill: Weir / Lister / Horsman
Playhouse, QPAC, South Brisbane
Three bold new ballet works in one electrifying evening.
Get Tickets

Spectacles of Wonder
GOMA, South Brisbane
Cinema that celebrates illusion, curiosity and invention.
See Program

Saturday, 28 June 2025

The Wishmas Tree (2019)
GOMA, South Brisbane
A heartwarming animated Aussie tale for families.
Get Tickets

Slowhand Sultans
Brisbane Jazz Club, Kangaroo Point
Bluesy vibes and electric guitar mastery.
Get Tickets

Dear Son
Bille Brown Theatre, South Brisbane
A moving new theatre work exploring identity and legacy.
Get Tickets

Wonderstruck Festival – Opening Weekend
GOMA, South Brisbane
An imaginative, hands-on art celebration for all ages.
Event Info

Sunday, 29 June 2025

Sweet Thunder: 100 Years of the Big Band
Brisbane Jazz Club, Kangaroo Point
Swing into Sunday with big band classics and bold brass.
Get Tickets

Cello Dreams – Queensland Symphony Orchestra
Concert Hall, QPAC, South Brisbane
A lush program of works featuring the expressive cello.
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Jesus Christ Superstar
Lyric Theatre, QPAC, South Brisbane
Timeless rock opera returns with powerful vocals and visual drama.
Get Tickets

All Shades Photographic Exhibition
Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, South Brisbane
Celebrating cultural identity and shared stories through lens and light.
See Exhibit

Whether you’re drawn to the theatrical, stirred by song, or chasing visual wonder, Brisbane’s arts venues are brimming with experiences this weekend. Plan your route, grab your tickets early, and enjoy a full palette of creativity and culture.

This weekend, Brisbane’s creative pulse is stronger than ever. From classical tributes to local jazz, children’s theatre to choral music, the city is alive with artistic expression. Here’s your curated list of the best arts and culture events from June 20 to 22.

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Brisbane City

Candlelight: The World of Joe Hisaishi

Date: 20-Jun-25
Venue: St. John’s Cathedral
Category: Classical
Experience the music of Studio Ghibli legend Joe Hisaishi in a breathtaking candlelit setting. This tribute concert pairs stunning acoustics with beloved soundtracks.
Get Tickets

Candlelight: Rings & Dragons

Date: 21-Jun-25
Venue: St. John’s Cathedral
Category: Classical
Transport yourself to fantasy realms through candlelit renditions of scores from The Lord of the Rings and Game of Thrones. A magical evening for fans of epic soundtracks.
Get Tickets

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Kangaroo Point

The Mojo Webb Quartet

Date: 20-Jun-25
Venue: Brisbane Jazz Club
Category: Jazz
Mojo Webb brings his signature blues-and-soul sound to the Brisbane Jazz Club stage. Expect a powerful night of groove, grit and great musicianship.
Get Tickets

Smooth ‘N’ Grooves – The Mark Pradella Band feat. Peter Vance

Date: 21-Jun-25
Venue: Brisbane Jazz Club
Category: Jazz
Smooth vocals meet jazzy rhythms in this stylish performance featuring Brisbane jazz stalwarts. A night of mellow magic on the riverside.
Get Tickets

Valtozash

Date: 22-Jun-25
Venue: Brisbane Jazz Club
Category: Jazz
This 10-piece jazz fusion collective brings bold brass, funk, and energy to the stage. Perfect for those who like their jazz experimental and electrifying.
Get Tickets

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Bowen Hills

Rogers Sings Hart: Jeff Usher and Lynn Rogers

Date: 21-Jun-25
Venue: JMI Live
Category: Jazz
A heartfelt tribute to the timeless songs of Rodgers & Hart. Enjoy piano and vocals wrapped in classic melodies and rich storytelling.
Get Tickets

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Enoggera

Wattle Sky – A Suite of Australian Choral Music

Date: 22-Jun-25
Venue: The Tree of Life Chapel
Category: Choir/Chorale
Hillbrook Chorale presents a beautifully crafted suite of Australian compositions. A stirring afternoon of voices, heritage, and harmony.
Get Tickets

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New Farm

Music Of The Night

Date: 22-Jun-25
Venue: Brisbane Powerhouse
Category: Classical
A night of soaring theatrical ballads and beloved stage classics. Celebrate the music of Broadway, opera, and the West End under one roof.
Get Tickets

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South Brisbane

The Gruffalo

Date: June 17–22, 2025
Venue: Lyric Theatre, QPAC
Category: Musical
The award-winning adaptation of Julia Donaldson’s classic book is back! A magical stage experience for kids filled with laughs, adventure and rhyme.
Get Tickets

Gurril Storm Bird

Date: June 18–21, 2025
Venue: Cremorne Theatre, QPAC
Category: Theatre
A lyrical performance combining Indigenous storytelling and movement. A captivating and thought-provoking piece from the Out of the Box festival.
Get Tickets

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Whether you’re chasing candlelight concerts, choral suites, jazz sessions or award-winning theatre, Brisbane’s arts scene is overflowing this weekend. Tune in, take your seat, and enjoy the creativity on offer.

From candlelight concerts and jazz to underground cinema and classic ballet, Brisbane’s art scene is alive with colour, sound, and imagination this weekend. Whether you’re into experimental film, orchestral masterpieces or immersive installations, there’s something to inspire your artistic side from June 13 to 15.

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BRISBANE CITY

Candlelight: A Tribute to ABBA

Date: June 13
Venue: Albert Street Uniting Church
Category: Tribute Music
Soak in the glow of candlelight while enjoying iconic hits from ABBA performed live in an intimate heritage setting. A beautiful fusion of pop nostalgia and classical flair.
Get Tickets

Candlelight Ballet: Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake & More

Date: June 14
Venue: St. John’s Cathedral
Category: Ballet
Tchaikovsky’s greatest ballet works, reimagined under a canopy of candlelight. A stirring experience that merges music, dance, and ambiance.
Get Tickets

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KANGAROO POINT

Darren Percival & Dave Spicer Live in Concert

Date: June 13
Venue: Brisbane Jazz Club
Category: Jazz
Two jazz masters join forces for an unforgettable night of soulful improvisation, harmony, and swing. This riverside venue sets the perfect mood.
Get Tickets

The Parrott: Baartz Project

Date: June 14
Venue: Brisbane Jazz Club
Category: Jazz
A bold blend of old-school jazz and new-wave fusion from two legends of Australian music. Expect a set full of colour, rhythm, and surprises.
Get Tickets

Brisbane Big Band

Date: June 15
Venue: Brisbane Jazz Club
Category: Jazz
Swinging brass, classic tunes, and timeless energy — the Big Band returns for a rousing Sunday session. Suitable for lovers of jazz both old and new.
Get Tickets

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SOUTH BRISBANE

Boxcar Bertha (1972, R18+)

Date: June 13
Venue: Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA), Cinema B
Category: Film
Martin Scorsese’s cult classic about outlaws and love during the Great Depression. Raw, gritty, and a milestone in American independent cinema.
Get Info

Caged Heat (1974, R18+)

Date: June 13
Venue: Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA), Cinema B
Category: Film
This women-in-prison exploitation film packs a satirical punch with rebellion and absurdity. Directed by Jonathan Demme in his offbeat early days.
Get Info

The Haunted Palace (1963, M)

Date: June 14
Venue: Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA), Cinema B
Category: Film
Vincent Price stars in this chilling Lovecraftian horror with Gothic atmosphere. A moody and eerie entry into Roger Corman’s filmography.
Get Info

The Premature Burial (1962, M)

Date: June 14
Venue: Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA), Cinema B
Category: Film
A man obsessed with being buried alive descends into paranoia in this psychological horror. A cult classic that’s both stylish and unsettling.
Get Info

The Raven (1963, PG)

Date: June 15
Venue: Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA), Cinema B
Category: Film
Boris Karloff and Vincent Price face off in this comedic horror based loosely on Poe’s poem. A delightfully bizarre 1960s romp through magic and mayhem.
Get Info

Targets (1968, M)

Date: June 15
Venue: Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA), Cinema B
Category: Film
Peter Bogdanovich’s debut — part horror, part thriller — reflects on violence in modern America through two chilling plotlines. Intense and thought-provoking.
Get Info

Beethoven & Brahms

Dates: June 13 & 14
Venue: Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC)
Category: Classical
Experience orchestral masterpieces as the Queensland Symphony Orchestra performs works by Beethoven and Brahms. A refined night out for classical music lovers.
Get Tickets

Art Box for Kids: Mandy Quadrio

Dates: May 31 – October 26
Venue: Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA)
Category: Art Exhibit
A playful, hands-on installation by Mandy Quadrio designed to spark creativity and sensory exploration. Perfect for young minds visiting GOMA.
Get Info

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ONLINE

Ballet Preljocaj – Swan Lake (Digital Stage)

Dates: June 13 & 15
Venue: Digital Stage (Online via QPAC)
Category: Ballet
This bold retelling of Swan Lake blends contemporary choreography with Tchaikovsky’s iconic score. Stream this world-class performance from home.
Watch Online

Brisbane’s art and culture scene never slows down — and this weekend proves it. Whether you’re basking in candlelight concerts, soaking in avant-garde film, or exploring visual arts, June 13 to 15 is a perfect time to dive into Brisbane’s creative heart.

Brisbane’s creative heartbeat pulses loud this weekend with a blend of jazz, classical performance, intimate recitals, and vibrant workshops. Whether you’re drawn to smoky bars or sacred spaces, samba beats or poetic memoirs, the city’s stages and studios are alive with talent. Here’s your curated guide for a culturally rich and artful weekend.

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South Brisbane

June 6–8, 2025
Dusty The Musical – In Concert
Musical
Venue: QPAC
Step into the life and legacy of Dusty Springfield in this theatrical concert event featuring her greatest hits. A dazzling, soulful tribute at QPAC.
Get Tickets

June 6, 2025
Roda de Samba at Casa Da Mae Joana
Venue: The Fourth Monkey Cocktail Bar & Grill
Dance
An electric, cultural evening of Brazilian samba, rhythm, and food at The Fourth Monkey. High energy and even higher vibes.
Get Tickets

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Bowen Hills

June 6, 2025
Nishla Smith (UK)
Venue: JMI Live
Jazz
Haunting vocals and lyrical storytelling meet classic jazz stylings in this evocative set from acclaimed UK vocalist Nishla Smith.
Get Tickets

June 7, 2025
Jazz Vocal Masterclass with Nishla Smith
Venue: JMI Live
Workshop
A rare opportunity to workshop vocal technique, interpretation, and improvisation with an international jazz talent.
Get Tickets

Jeff Usher Trio Plays Ray Charles and More
Venue: JMI Live
Jazz
A celebration of soul and swing as Brisbane jazz veteran Jeff Usher pays tribute to Ray Charles in this timeless trio performance.
Get Tickets

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West End

June 6, 2025
Cut Time Jazz Sessions
Venue: The Burrow
Jazz
Kick back with expertly curated jazz at The Burrow—perfectly paired with craft brews, warm lighting, and a laid-back Friday crowd.
Get Info

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Brisbane City

June 7, 2025
A Woman’s Love and Life
Venue: St. Andrew’s Uniting Church
Classical
This intimate vocal recital weaves a poignant narrative through Romantic song cycles. A moving concert in the beautiful Saint Andrew’s Church.
Get Tickets

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Kangaroo Point

June 7, 2025
Cappella Chorale: The Oscars Songbook
Venue: Queensland Multicultural Centre (BEMAC)
Classical
A cinematic choral evening featuring iconic songs from Oscar-winning films. Performed live at the Queensland Multicultural Centre.
Get Tickets

June 8, 2025
Hamish Strathdee – Solo Recital
Venue: St Mary’s Anglican Church Kangaroo Point
Classical
A gifted pianist offers a stirring solo performance of Romantic-era and modern works in this elegant recital.
Get Tickets

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Clayfield

June 8, 2025
Generations In Song
Venue: St Rita’s College, Trinity Centre
Choir, Classical
An uplifting intergenerational choral concert celebrating shared stories and music across ages and stages.
Get Tickets

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Brisbane/Online

June 8, 2025
The Art of the Short Memoir with Sarah Klenbort
Venue: Queensland Writers Centre & online via Zoom
Workshop
Writers of all levels are invited to explore the art of personal storytelling in this inspiring workshop hosted both in-person and via Zoom.
Get Tickets

Brisbane’s creative calendar this weekend is rich with stories told through music, words, and movement. Whether you’re leaning into live jazz, soaking up choral harmonies, or taking notes in a writing class, the arts are alive across the city. Fill your weekend with expression, elegance, and inspiration.

Brisbane is bursting with creativity this weekend, offering a vibrant mix of events for art enthusiasts, music lovers, theatregoers, and curious minds alike. From workshops to exhibitions and live performances, the city welcomes everyone to explore its cultural heart. Whether you’re looking to refine your artistic skills, get inspired by storytelling, or simply enjoy a powerful show, you’ll find something to immerse yourself in.

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Boondall

Date: 28 May – 1 June 2025
Event Name: Les Misérables The Arena Spectacular
Category: Musical
An epic arena performance of the classic tale of revolution and redemption. A must-see musical for the ages.
Get Tickets

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Corinda

Date: 31 May 2025
Event Name: Portrait painting with Eliza Bertwistle
Category: Workshop
Learn portrait techniques from acclaimed artist Eliza Bertwistle in a hands-on class for painters of all levels. Discover how to bring faces to life with form, light, and emotion.
Get Tickets

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Fortitude Valley

Date: 31 May 2025
Event Name: Screening | Difficult Love
Category: Film
A raw, emotional documentary exploring identity and artistry through intimate visual storytelling. Hosted at the Institute of Modern Art.
Get Tickets

Date: 1 June 2025
Event Name: Theatresports: Round 4
Category: Theatre
High-stakes improv and fast-paced laughter light up the stage in this crowd-favorite competitive theatre event.
Get Tickets

Date: 13–31 May 2025
Event Name: From the Inside, Looking Out | Bernard Ollis OAM
Category: Art Exhibit
Renowned artist Bernard Ollis unveils a visually arresting collection reflecting internal worlds and vivid perspectives.
Get Tickets

Date: 13–31 May 2025
Event Name: Tjungai | Barney Ellaga
Category: Art Exhibit
Experience the rich cultural legacy of Aboriginal artist Barney Ellaga through this immersive exhibition of colour and spirit.
Get Tickets

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Graceville

Date: 31 May 2025
Event Name: Emma Di Marco ‘Shimmer’ Album Launch
Category: Classical
Celebrate the debut of Emma Di Marco’s enchanting album Shimmer. A magical evening of classical sounds and lyrical storytelling awaits.
Get Tickets

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South Brisbane

Date: 31 May 2025
Event Name: Using Author Branding to Sell Books with C T Mitchell
Category: Workshop
Unlock the power of branding in the publishing world with bestselling author C T Mitchell. Perfect for aspiring writers and self-publishers ready to elevate their visibility.
Get Tickets

Date: 1 June 2025
Event Name: Writing Historical Fiction with Pamela Rushby
Category: Workshop
Award-winning author Pamela Rushby offers expert guidance on crafting compelling historical fiction. A must-attend for passionate storytellers.
Get Tickets

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Teneriffe

Date: 31 May – 1 June 2025
Event Name: Art Exhibit – Down the Rabbit Hole
Category: Art Exhibit
Step into a whimsical world of imagination at Jan Manton Gallery’s latest exhibit. Perfect for lovers of the surreal and playful.
Get Tickets

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West End

Date: 31 May 2025
Event Name: Voice & Presence + Speaking Shakespeare: Two Workshops over Two Days
Category: Workshop
Explore performance fundamentals and Shakespearean drama in a two-part workshop series. Ideal for actors, educators, and voice artists.
Get Tickets

From intimate workshops and thought-provoking exhibits to arena-scale productions, this weekend in Brisbane is brimming with artistic possibility. Don’t miss your chance to connect with creativity and community—whether you’re picking up a brush, watching the stage come alive, or simply wandering through a gallery.

From stirring jazz sets and timeless classical recitals to literary workshops and theatre premieres, Brisbane’s arts and culture scene offers an elegant and eclectic weekend lineup. Here’s what’s on across the city.

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South Brisbane

23-May-25
Breathe, Buzz and Slide
Classical
An inspiring recital showcasing brass ensemble works performed by talented musicians at the Ian Hanger Recital Hall. A night of refined sound and artistic precision.
Get Tickets

24-May-25
Crafting Human Stories in Speculative Fiction with Trent Jamieson
Workshop
A practical writing workshop at Queensland Writers Centre focused on character and emotion in speculative fiction. Hosted by acclaimed author Trent Jamieson.
Get Tickets

20–24 May 2025
Il ritorno d’Ulisse in patria (The Return of Ulysses)
Opera
A baroque masterpiece staged by Queensland Conservatorium, reimagining Monteverdi’s tale of loss and return. Final performances this weekend.
Get Tickets

23–24 May 2025
Art of the Score: The Music of Hans Zimmer
Orchestra
The Queensland Symphony Orchestra brings Zimmer’s film scores to life with epic orchestration and immersive visuals at QPAC.
Get Tickets

24-May to 8-Jun 2025
Frankenstein
Theatre
Shake & Stir Theatre Co presents a gothic and gripping adaptation of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein at QPAC. A darkly thrilling stage experience.
Get Tickets

25-May-25
Young Voices Festival 2025
Choir, Festival
A vibrant showcase of youth choirs from across the region, held at Valmai Pidgeon Performing Arts Centre. Expect harmonies, energy, and heart.
Get Tickets

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Kangaroo Point

23-May-25
BLUE TURTLES – The Music of STING
Jazz
A soulful tribute to Sting’s jazz-influenced solo work by a stellar ensemble at Brisbane Jazz Club. Smooth, nostalgic, and richly arranged.
Get Tickets

24-May-25
Swing Central featuring Brad Leaver
Jazz
Swing standards and smooth vocals take over the Brisbane Jazz Club with Brad Leaver’s seasoned stage presence. A night made for jazz lovers.
Get Tickets

25-May-25
The Kate Street Big Band presents JAZZ: AN EVOLUTION
Jazz
Travel through time with this big band celebration of jazz history, from swing to modern soul. A high-energy, horn-filled performance.
Get Tickets

25-May-25
BEMAC Supports The Voices of Africa: DiBruin Gospel Project
Choir
A powerful choral performance celebrating African heritage, music, and spirit. Presented by BEMAC at the Queensland Multicultural Centre.
Get Tickets

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West End

24-May-25
The Mojo Webb Band
Blues
Blues roots and raw energy fill The Bearded Lady with Mojo Webb’s signature gritty vocals and guitar riffs. An electric Saturday night session.
Get Tickets

25-May-25
Jazz Music With Stephanie Larman
Jazz
Stephanie Larman brings warm vocals and elegant melodies to the stage for an afternoon of jazz at The Bearded Lady.
Get Tickets

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Woolloongabba

25-May-25
Courtenay Cleary, Oliver Scott & Alex Raineri (Sunday Matinee Show)
Classical
An afternoon of classical brilliance at FourthWall Arts. This trio delivers chamber works with refinement and emotional depth.
Get Tickets

Brisbane’s creative core shines bright this weekend, offering everything from intimate jazz gigs to sweeping orchestral scores and thought-provoking workshops. Whether you’re here to be moved, inspired, or simply entertained, the city’s arts calendar is fully stocked.

Whether you’re a fan of cinema classics, Baroque music, theatre, contemporary art, or cultural community fun, Brisbane’s creative scene is thriving this weekend. Explore immersive exhibits, atmospheric films, musical retrospectives, and interactive events across the city and beyond.

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Brighton

May 18, 2025
Swedish Kubb & Picnic Fun
Cultural
Bring your picnic blanket and enjoy a Swedish lawn game in the park. Great for all ages, this community event is a relaxed way to explore another culture.
Get Tickets: Instagram

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Brisbane City

May 6 – June 2025
Opera Queensland Costume Display
Fashion
A behind-the-scenes look at the stunning craftsmanship of Opera Queensland’s costume department. Free and on display at Brisbane Quarter.
Get Tickets: Facebook

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Fort Lytton

May 11–18, 2025
A Narrow Strip Along A Steep Edge
Art, Art Exhibit
Set in a historic military fort, this contemporary exhibition examines the boundaries between nature, place, and human experience.
Get Tickets: ArtsHub

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Fortitude Valley

May 16, 2025
The Tony’s In Concert: A Retrospective
Musical
Celebrate Broadway’s greatest moments in one powerhouse revue. Presented live at Big Fork Theatre by a cast of Brisbane’s rising stars.
Get Tickets: Big Fork Theatre

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Kangaroo Point

May 17, 2025
One Equal Music: Baroque Masters
Classical
A stunning program of Baroque compositions performed live at the beautiful St. Mary’s Church. Perfect for lovers of classical music and choral harmony.
Get Tickets: One Equal Music

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South Brisbane

May 16, 2025
House of Usher (1960)
Film
Vincent Price stars in this gothic horror masterpiece from Roger Corman, screening at GOMA’s Cinematheque.
Get Tickets: QAGOMA

May 16, 2025
The Masque of the Red Death (1964)
Film
A visually rich adaptation of Poe’s haunting tale, screening as part of the Roger Corman program at GOMA.
Get Tickets: QAGOMA

May 17, 2025
A Bucket of Blood (1959)
Film
Satirical and macabre, this cult favorite adds a touch of absurdity to the art world. Showing at GOMA.
Get Tickets: QAGOMA

May 17, 2025
The Little Shop of Horrors (1960)
Film
Feed the plant and enjoy the original black-and-white horror-comedy that inspired a Broadway hit.
Get Tickets: QAGOMA

May 16 – June 22, 2025
Roger Corman B-Movie Maestro
Film
A curated program celebrating the wild world of B-movie legend Roger Corman. Multiple cult classics screening across several weeks.
Get Tickets: QAGOMA

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South Bank

May 18, 2025
Creative Arts Open Day
Art, Community
Explore Griffith University’s arts campus and meet emerging creatives in visual arts, music, film, and performance. Interactive, insightful, and open to all.
Get Tickets: Griffith

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From stage to screen, gallery to park, Brisbane’s cultural calendar this weekend celebrates the creative spirit in all its forms. Dive into artistic retrospectives, discover emerging talent, and enjoy timeless cinematic gems in settings that elevate the entire experience.

As the crisp autumn air settles over Brisbane, the city is buzzing with a dynamic lineup of cultural happenings. From visual arts and classical music to jazz, literary workshops, and live performances, here’s your guide to the must-see events for the weekend of May 9 to 11, 2025.

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South Brisbane

May 9, 2025
Chat 10 Looks 3 Live
Category: Musical
Leigh Sales and Annabel Crabb bring their popular podcast to life with sharp wit and spontaneous charm.
Get Tickets

May 9, 2025
Continuum
Category: Jazz
A captivating recital featuring top jazz talent from Queensland Conservatorium.
Get Tickets

May 10, 2025
Writing Life Naturally with Mary-Rose MacColl
Category: Workshop
Explore personal storytelling in a reflective session led by a celebrated author.
Get Tickets

May 10 & 11, 2025
The Strauss Gala
Category: Orchestra
Enjoy the elegance and grandeur of Strauss in this orchestral celebration.
Get Tickets

May 11, 2025
Words and Pictures with Shannon Horsfall
Category: Workshop
A creative session blending illustration and storytelling for all ages.
Get Tickets

May 11, 2025
An Extended Sound Performance by Dean Ansell
Category: Art Exhibit
A thought-provoking fusion of sound, story, and urban space.
Get Tickets

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Kangaroo Point

May 9, 2025
Galapagos Duck
Category: Jazz
Legendary jazz ensemble returns for a night of vibrant, soulful music.
Get Tickets

May 10, 2025
Dezzie D & the Stingrayz
Category: Jazz
Get your groove on with retro jazz and swing classics.
Get Tickets

May 11, 2025
The Trombone Kellie Gang – Mother’s Day Special
Category: Jazz
A festive Mother’s Day celebration with lively jazz by the river.
Get Tickets

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Bowen Hills

May 8 to 11, 2025
Affordable Art Fair
Category: Fair
Dive into a world of creativity with works from emerging and established artists at this vibrant art marketplace.
Get Tickets

May 10, 2025
Refracted – Voxalis
Category: Classical
An innovative performance blending light, music, and emotion.
Get Tickets

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Brisbane City

May 9, 2025
HRBRT
Category: Jazz
Live grooves and chilled brews at this riverside performance space.
Get Tickets

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Runcorn

May 10, 2025
Artist Talk with Melissa Stannard
Category: Art Exhibit
A meaningful discussion on art, memory, and culture.
Get Tickets

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Lytton (Port of Brisbane)

May 10 to 18, 2025
A Narrow Strip Along A Steep Edge
Category: Art Exhibit
An immersive outdoor exhibition set against Brisbane’s industrial history.
Get Tickets

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West End

May 11, 2025
Brunswick Street Parade Live
Category: Live Music
A Sunday session featuring vibrant local sounds in a beloved venue.
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Whether you’re in the mood for music, visual storytelling, or community connection, Brisbane is brimming with unforgettable moments this May weekend.

Brisbane’s cultural calendar is in full bloom this weekend. Whether you’re after powerful theatre, mellow jazz, or thought-provoking art, the city has a little something for every curious and creative mind. Here’s a curated list of what’s on.

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April 29 to May 4, 2025

New Farm (Brisbane Powerhouse)

Sh!t-faced Shakespeare
Category: Theatre Comedy
A raucous, unfiltered take on the Bard with one actor drunk and the rest trying to keep it together.
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May 2, 2025

South Brisbane (Queensland Conservatorium)

Ba Da Boom
Category: Percussion
An explosive percussion ensemble showcasing bold rhythms and world influences.
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Bowen Hills (JMI Live)

Mt Gravatt SHS Jazz Night with JMI
Category: Jazz
A swinging night of student talent, improvisation, and big band energy.
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May 3, 2025

Indooroopilly (Indooroopilly Library)

Meet Laura Elvery
Category: Meet and Greet
Join author Laura Elvery for a personal discussion on writing, inspiration, and creativity.
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South Brisbane (QPAC)

Shakespeare’s The Tempest
Category: Theatre
A classic tale of magic and revenge brought to life by Queensland Symphony Orchestra.
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Bowen Hills (JMI Live)

Jeff Usher with Brunswick Street Parade
Category: Jazz
An intimate jazz night with Brisbane legend Jeff Usher and ensemble.
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May 4, 2025

New Farm (New Farm Park)

Bands in Parks: A Touch of Tango with Asian Spice
Category: Music
A unique fusion of Latin rhythm and Eastern flair in this open-air concert series.
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West End (The Bearded Lady)

Gypsy Jazz Sundays
Category: Jazz
Mellow gypsy swing in one of Brisbane’s coziest live music spots.
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The Big Jazz Party!
Category: Jazz
A late-night jazz celebration with bold solos, surprise acts, and spirited crowd energy.
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May 2 to 10, 2025

South Brisbane (QPAC)

Carrie: The Musical
Category: Musical
A dark, dynamic retelling of Stephen King’s classic story—with songs that slay.
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May 1 to 6, 2025

Toowong (Richard Randall Art Studio)

Orangutan in Art
Category: Art Exhibit
A compelling exploration of conservation and creativity featuring works inspired by great apes.
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Step Into Brisbane’s Creative Side

This weekend, Brisbane’s arts scene offers everything from Shakespearean storms to jazz improvisation and immersive art. Whether you’re settling into a seat at QPAC or strolling through a riverside gallery, the city is your stage.