The Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) is a shining star in Brisbane’s cultural sky. Its story began in the late 1960s when the idea for a cultural precinct took root. Designed by architect Robin Gibson, construction kicked off in 1976. QPAC officially opened on April 20, 1985, with the Duke of Kent cutting the ribbon. Starting with the Lyric Theatre, Concert Hall, and Cremorne Theatre, the Playhouse joined in 1998, debuting with The Marriage of Figaro starring Geoffrey Rush.
QPAC has grown into a cultural cornerstone for Brisbane. It welcomes over 1.5 million visitors yearly and will host over 1,200 performances annually by 2025. Home to Queensland Ballet, Queensland Theatre, Opera Queensland, and Queensland Symphony Orchestra, it’s a hub for local talent and global acts. With programs like Clancestry celebrating First Nations arts, QPAC fosters inclusivity and community spirit.
Surrounding QPAC, South Bank is Brisbane’s vibrant cultural playground. Once Jagera and Turrbal land was known as Kurilpa, it evolved from a penal colony to a cultural hub with early theatres like Croft’s Amphitheatre. Today, it’s a mix of green spaces, dining spots like Lyrebird, and venues like the Queensland Art Gallery, buzzing with free Friday performances and festivals.
South Bank’s future is exciting. The $175 million New Performing Arts Venue, set to open by 2026 on Playhouse Green, will make QPAC Australia’s most prominent with five venues. It aims to attract 300,000 more visitors yearly. With the 2032 Olympics looming, the area plans to balance growth with its cultural charm, though some worry about overdevelopment.
QPAC’s next six months are packed with treats. From March 20, Coldplay by Candlelight performed with world-class violinists and a stunning live band. On April 13, Rodrigo y Gabriela’s Grammy-winning guitar magic hits the Concert Hall. The Out of the Box Festival delights kids from June 17-22. Art of the Score: The Music of Hans Zimmer, celebrating a career of award-winning movie scores on May 23-24. Cirque Alice, a circus-musical blend, promises acrobatic fun from April 10-22. Free events and workshops add to the fun—don’t miss out!
Note: Event scheduling may be subject to change. We recommend you verify dates with QPAC.
Visit the QPAC website for all the performances over the rest of 2025 and beyond.
