Category: What’s On Brisbane Music and Arts

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

Brisbane City

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

Runcorn

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

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

West End

May 11, 2025
Brunswick Street Parade Live
Category: Live Music
A Sunday session featuring vibrant local sounds in a beloved venue.
Get Tickets 

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.

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.
Get Tickets

May 2, 2025

South Brisbane (Queensland Conservatorium)

Ba Da Boom
Category: Percussion
An explosive percussion ensemble showcasing bold rhythms and world influences.
Get Tickets

Bowen Hills (JMI Live)

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

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.
Get Tickets

South Brisbane (QPAC)

Shakespeare’s The Tempest
Category: Theatre
A classic tale of magic and revenge brought to life by Queensland Symphony Orchestra.
Get Tickets

Bowen Hills (JMI Live)

Jeff Usher with Brunswick Street Parade
Category: Jazz
An intimate jazz night with Brisbane legend Jeff Usher and ensemble.
Get Tickets

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.
Get Tickets

West End (The Bearded Lady)

Gypsy Jazz Sundays
Category: Jazz
Mellow gypsy swing in one of Brisbane’s coziest live music spots.
Get Tickets

The Big Jazz Party!
Category: Jazz
A late-night jazz celebration with bold solos, surprise acts, and spirited crowd energy.
Get Tickets

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.
Get Tickets

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.
Get Tickets

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.

As Brisbane marks the final weekend of April with a blend of creativity, reflection, and rhythm, the city offers a rich array of arts and cultural experiences. From jazz to classical quartets, experimental cinema to contemporary art, this is a weekend to reconnect with the artistic pulse of the River City. Whether you’re in Fortitude Valley, Kangaroo Point or the city’s outer suburbs, these events offer something special for every cultural palate.

Fortitude Valley

Institute of Modern Art
26 April 2025
Un Magazine 18.1 Publication Launch
Category: Launch
Celebrate the release of the latest issue of Un Magazine with a creative crowd.
Get tickets

Outer Space
25 April to 24 May 2025
The Rīgorabana, The Balawaia Exhibition: Dean Ansell
Category: Art Exhibit
A powerful visual journey exploring Indigenous identity and ancestral connection.
Get tickets

Kangaroo Point

Brisbane Jazz Club
26 April 2025
John Reeves presents his Ragbags Quintet
Category: Jazz
A toe-tapping night of rhythmic flair and smooth improvisation with jazz pianist John Reeves.
Get tickets

Brisbane Jazz Club
27 April 2025
Mango Jam Big Band presents The Best of Basie
Category: Jazz
A full-swing tribute to Count Basie packed with big band energy and timeless classics.
Get tickets

Newstead

The Triffid
26 April 2025
Cool Britannia featuring Brisbane Symphony Orchestra Quartet
Category: Classical
An evening of British musical gems performed in one of Brisbane’s most iconic venues.
Get tickets

South Brisbane

Queensland Symphony Orchestra Studio
26 April 2025
Young Instrumentalists i Prize Finalists’ Recital
Category: Classical
Emerging musical talents compete for top honours in this inspiring showcase.
Get tickets

GOMA
24 & 26 April 2025
Asia Pacific Triennial Cinema GIFT: A Live Score by Eiko Ishibashi x Film by Ryusuke   Hamaguchi
Category: Audio Visual Arts
An immersive cinema experience with a live musical score accompanying cutting-edge visual storytelling.
Get tickets

Playhouse, QPAC
26 April to 10 May 2025
The Dictionary of Lost Words
Category: Play
A stage adaptation of Pip Williams’ novel exploring language, memory and women’s voices.
Get tickets

West End

The Bearded Lady
27 April 2025
Melody Graves and the Hokum Redemption
Category: Jazz
A gritty, deep-south-inspired performance by one of Brisbane’s favourite alt-jazz acts.
Get tickets

Boondall

Boondall Wetlands Environment Centre
27 April 2025
Understory by Rachel Apelt
Category: Art Exhibit
Explore the intersection of nature and art in this reflective exhibition set within the wetlands.
Get tickets

This April weekend proves Brisbane is more than sunshine and river breezes, it’s a city of creativity and cultural depth. Whether you’re up for a sophisticated recital, a bold jazz session, or an art exhibit that makes you think twice, the city’s stages, studios and streets are ready to welcome you. Get out there and feel the culture.

Brisbane’s arts and culture scene is blooming this Easter weekend, with events that range from classical concerts to intimate jazz nights, contemporary art exhibitions, and ballet showcases. Whether you’re after something contemplative or creatively inspiring, here’s your curated guide to what’s on from April 18 to 20, 2025—and a little beyond.

18 April 2025

Paddington

MUSIC FOR HOLY WEEK – CANTICUM CHAMBER CHOIR
A moving choral performance for Easter at Sacred Heart Church.
Get Tickets

19 April 2025

Boondall

Understory by Rachel Apelt
Explore local art inspired by nature at Boondall Wetlands.
Get Tickets

Kangaroo Point

The Songs of Eva Cassidy – Live in Concert!
A heartfelt tribute concert at Brisbane Jazz Club.
Get Tickets

Toowong

FireWorks – Meet the Artists
Get up close with local creators at the Richard Randall Art Studio.
Get Tickets

Woolloongabba

IN THEIR OWN WORDS – EASTER VIGIL CONCERT
An immersive Easter vigil concert by Peter Roennfeldt & Friends.
Get Tickets

20 April 2025

Kangaroo Point

Brisbane Big Band with Special Guest Pete Vance
Swing into Sunday with the Brisbane Big Band at the Jazz Club.
Get Tickets

Ongoing / Extended Exhibitions

South Brisbane

Jo Lankester – Topographia: harmonies of place
A contemporary solo exhibition at Onespace exploring sense of place.
Get Tickets

Paula Payne – Shifting Sands of Land and Memory
An exploration of land and memory in Onespace’s Lounge Gallery.
Get Tickets

West End

Iconic Ballet Characters: Costumes that tell a story
Discover the magic of ballet through costumes at the Thomas Dixon Centre.
Get Tickets

Queensland Ballet Company Class Viewing
An exclusive behind-the-scenes look at Queensland Ballet company rehearsals.
Get Tickets

This Easter weekend, trade the hustle of city crowds for an experience that feeds the soul. From powerful performances to thought-provoking exhibits, Brisbane’s arts and culture spaces are offering a rich tapestry of inspiration. Whether you’re a casual observer or a devoted patron, it’s the perfect time to explore the creative heart of the city.

Brisbane’s creative scene is in full bloom this April weekend, with an inspiring lineup of art exhibitions, jazz performances, and theatrical works happening across the city. Whether you’re after an intimate concert, bold new visual art, or a reimagined ballet, you’ll find something to stir the soul and spark conversation. Here’s your guide to the best arts and culture events happening from Friday, April 11 to Sunday, April 13, 2025.

Kangaroo Point

April 11–12
Vince Jones Quintet
Venue: Brisbane Jazz Club
Category: Music – Jazz
Australia’s legendary jazz vocalist brings his smooth sound and master musicianship to the riverside stage.
Get Tickets

April 13
David Bentley Trio + 1
Venue: Brisbane Jazz Club
Category: Music – Jazz
A Sunday session of groove, improv, and rich piano-driven jazz featuring David Bentley and his quartet.
Get Tickets

Hamilton

April 12
Brisbane Illustration Fair
Venue: Superordinary
Category: Visual Arts – Illustration/Market
A celebration of Australia’s top illustrators, designers, and creatives, with live drawing, prints, and more.
Get Tickets

Boondall

April 12
Understory by Rachel Apelt
Venue: Boondall Wetlands Environment Centre
Category: Visual Art – Environmental Installation
An immersive outdoor art trail exploring our deep connections with nature.
Get Tickets

Bowen Hills

April 13
Conductor’s Cut
Venue: The Old Museum
Category: Music – Orchestral
An exciting chamber concert spotlighting powerful classical pieces and modern arrangements.
Get Tickets

South Brisbane

April 11–May 10
Jo Lankester: Topographia – Harmonies of Place
Venue: Onespace Gallery
Category: Exhibition – Mixed Media
A striking reflection on terrain and memory through layered printmaking.
Get Tickets

April 11–May 10
Paula Payne: Shifting Sands of Land and Memory
Venue: Onespace Gallery
Category: Exhibition – Painting/Installation
Exploring the fluidity of landscape and time through deeply textural works.
Get Tickets

April 8–12
A Girl’s Guide to World War
Venue: Cremorne Theatre, QPAC
Category: Theatre – Musical
An inspiring, true story of female doctors in WWI, told through music and drama.
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Woolloongabba

April 13–14
We Call It Ballet: Sleeping Beauty in a Dazzling Light Show
Venue: The Princess Theatre
Category: Dance – Ballet
A reimagined take on Sleeping Beauty, blending classical ballet with immersive digital visuals.
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With exhibitions, concerts, and powerful stage productions across Brisbane, the arts are taking centre stage this weekend. Step away from the routine, immerse yourself in creativity, and explore the bold ideas shaping our city’s culture.