Queensland Performing Arts Centre

1984

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Thu, 16 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

By George Orwell
Adapted & created by shake & stir theatre co

Big Brother is back.

Oceania; a Nation perpetually at war, where cameras watch every move and Thought Police roam the streets. A place Winston Smith calls home.

By day, Winston is an editor at the Ministry of Truth, rewriting history to align the past with the radical political agenda of the ruling party and its illusive leader, Big Brother.

By night, Winston pursues a forbidden love affair with the mysterious Julia in an attempt to rebel against the oppressive regime set down by the party and maintain some control over his otherwise totally controlled life.

When Winston and Julia are discovered, they are violently separated, detained and prepared for conversion. Locked in the Ministry of Love and interrogated by the quietly terrifying O'Brien, Winston is beaten, manipulated and subjected to sickening torture in an attempt to make him reject dreams of liberation and understand that free thought and logic is the only true enemy.

From the team that brought you the sold out season of Animal Farm, this new stage adaptation brings George Orwell's final novel screaming into the present. Strap yourself in for this terrifically frightening theatrical event featuring a cast of some of Queensland's most acclaimed artists, set against a dynamic digital backdrop. This production is sure to stun as it contemplates the ultimate crime against humanity - the total destruction of truth, freedom and individuality in favor of surveillance, obedience and conformity.

Director: Michael Futcher

Featuring:
Ross Balbuziente
Nelle Lee
Hugh Parker
Bryan Probets
Nick Skubij

ACO Beethoven 9

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Mon, 06 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The ACO's internationally-acclaimed Beethoven symphony series reaches its climax with Symphony No.9, Ode to Joy, featuring one of the finest British choirs and an exceptional line-up of soloists.

Critics called the ACO's recent Beethoven concert in London "the finest concert of the summer" and spoke of "thrilling playing", "vibrant drive" and "total involvement", concluding, "this compact chamber orchestra matches anything Europe can offer in energy, precision and interpretative rigour."

Building to the symphony, a trio of serene yet intense works, swelling to Beethoven's depiction of a sea voyage.

MESSIAEN Prayer of Christ ascending towards his Father, from L'Ascension
BRAHMS Geistliches Lied
BEETHOVEN Calm Sea and Prosperous Voyage
BEETHOVEN Symphony No.9

Richard Tognetti Artistic Director and Lead Violin
Choir of Clare College, Cambridge (Graham Ross Director)
Lucy Crowe Soprano
Fiona Campbell Mezzo Soprano
Allan Clayton Tenor
Matthew Brook Bass

ACO Chopin and Mendelssohn's Octet

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Combining sparkling virtuosity with tender lyricism, Chopin's First Piano Concerto is an ideal vehicle for the unique talents of Polina Leschenko. Although Górecki is best known for his haunting and heartfelt Symphony of Sorrowful Songs, his Piano Concerto bristles with driving rhythms and energy.

Mendelssohn's Octet is a staple of the ACO's repertoire, its carefree exuberance belying its fiendish technical intricacies.

The ACO's three legendary violins - Stradivari, Guarneri and Guadagnini - are revealed in Richard Tognetti's specially created arrangement of Paganini's dazzling Caprices.

"The enthusiasm and tightness of the ACO was nowhere better shown than in the Mendelssohn with its joyful, sweeping opening movement, quicksilver scherzo and romping closing figure." Cumberland Newspapers.

"Eight players from the orchestra revelled in the musical high jinks of Mendelssohn's Octet." Adelaide Advertiser

PAGANINI (arr. Tognetti) Caprice on Caprices
MORRICONE Exercises I: Adagio
CHOPIN (arr. Tognetti) Piano Concerto No.1
GÓRECKI Piano Concerto
MENDELSSOHN Octet

Richard Tognetti Artistic Director and Lead Violin
Polina Leschenko Piano

ACO Danielle de Niese

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Mon, 25 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Danielle de Niese was born in Melbourne and won Young Talent Time aged 9, then moved to Los Angeles, won an Emmy and made her debut with the LA Opera aged 15. She has blossomed into one of the hottest properties in opera, enrapturing audiences in roles like Cleopatra, Euridice and Susanna at Glyndebourne, the Metropolitan Opera and on screen.

To celebrate her professional debut in her home country, De Niese sings a specially commissioned Australian work, which also marks the centenary of Australia's Nobel laureate Patrick White. She also shines in Mozart's joyous Exsultate jubilate, matched with a flourish by a symphony from one of Mozart's early operas.

Schubert's haunting song, Death and the Maiden, is at the heart of Schubert's famous and dramatic quartet.

MOZART Symphony K196/121, "La finta giardiniera"
VINE New work (text by Patrick White)
MEALE Cantilena Pacifica
MOZART Exsultate jubilate
SCHUBERT (arr. Tognetti) Death and the Maiden

Richard Tognetti Artistic Director and Lead Violin
Danielle de Niese Soprano

ACO Russian Visions

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Mon, 19 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

As soon as he played with the ACO, Steven Osborne wanted to return with Shostakovich's Piano Concerto No.1, for it requires an immensely virtuosic string orchestra, flexibility and humour veering on craziness. The time has now come with this all-Russian concert.

Brimming with carefree energy, Tchaikovsky's Souvenir is an exuberant postcard from an Italian summer holiday. "The ACO...set the audience in a spin with its heady version of Tchaikovsky's Souvenir de Florence. Richard Tognetti was intent on making the most of the Russian nostalgia, romancing his violins, sending the audience into a clapping frenzy." Herald Sun

PROKOFIEV (arr. Barshai/Tognetti) Visions fugitives
SHOSTAKOVICH Piano Concerto No.1
SHOSTAKOVICH Octet
TCHAIKOVSKY Souvenir de Florence

Richard Tognetti Artistic Director and Lead Violin
Steven Osborne Piano
David Elton Trumpet

ACO The Hilliard Ensemble

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Mon, 12 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Hilliard Ensemble is famous for mesmerising performances and chart topping recordings of early and contemporary vocal music. In this concert, Gregorian chant and French medieval hymn hypnotically intertwine with Edwards’ orchestral setting of Veni Creator Spiritus (Come Holy Spirit). A cappella prayers from 15th century England and Arvo Pärt join Raskatov’s Russian Orthodox chant setting, written for The Hilliard Ensemble and string orchestra. This concert also celebrates the luscious ACO string sound with two opulent works, Elgar’s Serenade for Strings and Arensky’s Variations on a theme by Tchaikovsky.

ELGAR Serenade for strings
SHERYNGHAM Ah, gentle Jesu
RASKATOV Obikhod (Australian Premiere)
PÄRT Most Holy Mother of God
GREGORIAN CHANT Veni Creator Spiritus
ANON. (FRENCH MEDIEVAL) Veni Creator Spiritus
EDWARDS Veni Creator Spiritus
ARENSKY Variations on a theme by Tchaikovsky

Helena Rathbone Lead Violin
The Hilliard Ensemble

ACO Trout Quintet & Quartet for the End of Time

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Wed, 11 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

This concert pairs two great works inspired by very different experiences away from home, both written for the musicians available and, as a result, for unusual combinations of instruments.

Aged 22, Schubert had his first holiday in the country. In the Trout, he captures the mood of those carefree summer days and his ecstatic delight in the countryside, in warm, beguiling melodies and harmonies.

A prisoner of war, Messiaen wrote the Quartet for the End of Time for the musicians he found in the camp, premiering it to an audience of inmates and guards. "Never" he said, "was I listened to with such rapt attention and comprehension." Critic Alex Ross calls it "the most ethereally beautiful music of the 20th century...as overpowering now as it was on that frigid night in 1941."

ACO Principals are joined by clarinettist Paul Dean and dynamic young pianist Saleem Abboud Ashkar, making his Australian debut.

SCHUBERT Piano Quintet, Trout
MESSIAEN Quartet for the End of Time

Helena Rathbone Violin
Christopher Moore Viola
Timo-Veikko Valve Cello
Maxime Bibeau Double Bass
Paul Dean Clarinet
Saleem Abboud Ashkar Piano

Alice in Wonderland

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sat, 31 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Come with Alice on her adventures when she tumbles into Wonderland! Guided by the White Rabbit, Alice meets some astonishing characters, including the Mad Hatter, the Queen of Hearts, Humpty Dumpty and those mischievous twins, Tweedledum and Tweedledee.

Basing his ballet on Lewis Carroll's much-loved children's books, Alice in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass, François Klaus has created a captivating piece, brimful of wit, humour and charm. With its whimsical flights of the imagination, eclectic music and joyful dance, Alice in Wonderland is delightful entertainment for all ages.

Alice's High Tea
Have your own tea party! Join us in the Playhouse Lounge before the Alice in Wonderland matinee performance on 3, 4, 5 or 14 April for a delicious high tea, and enjoy short readings from Lewis Carroll's wonderful Alice stories. Read more.

Alice's High Tea

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Tue, 03 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Have your own tea party! Join us in the Playhouse Lounge before the Alice in Wonderland matinee performance on 3, 4, 5 or 14 April for a delicious high tea, and enjoy short readings from Lewis Carroll's wonderful Alice stories.

Alice's High Tea includes delectable ribbon sandwiches, a selection of yummy cup cakes, sweets and slices, and fresh orange juice, tea or coffee.

Numbers are limited, so don't be late like the White Rabbit!

If you are purchasing tickets to Alice in Wonderland, you can add Alice's High Tea to your booking after you've selected your seats.

MENU
$19.50 for Two | $39 for Four

High tea style presented on tiered platters for individual (2 or 4) orders.

Ribbon sandwiches

Cucumber, crème fraiche & dill
Leg ham, grain mustard & brie
Egg & Lettuce

Selection of cup cakes, sweets & slices
Fresh Orange Juice
Tea & coffee

An Evening with John Cleese

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Legendary UK comic John Cleese - star of Monty Python and Fawlty Towers - is bringing his one man show An Evening With John Cleese to the QPAC Concert Hall.

Cleese is loved the world over for his comedic antics in cult films such as Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Monty Python's The Meaning of Life, The Life of Brian and the ever memorable television series Fawlty Towers. In 1998 he won a British Academy Award for Best Actor in A Fish Called Wanda which also starred Jamie Lee Curtis and Kevin Kline. He also appeared in the James Bond films The World is Not Enough and Die Another Day.

Few comedy troupes have reached the same fame of Monty Python, and a large part of that success was due to John Cleese and his impeccable timing and sense of humour.

Cleese describes his one man show as "an evening of well honed anecdotes, psychoanalytical tit-bits, and unprovoked attacks on former colleagues, especially Michael Palin."

Cleese has mastered everything from dry wit to slapstick humour, making his type of humour one that everyone can enjoy. He is the master comedian and admired and respected by everyone. Don't miss this legendary comedian.

Annie

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sat, 07 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The timeless tale of Little Orphan Annie is back giving a whole new generation the chance to experience this classic musical about never giving up hope. Boasting one of Broadway's most memorable scores, including It's the Hard-Knock Life, Easy Street, N.Y.C. and the ever-optimistic Tomorrow, Annie is one of the most awarded and loved musicals of all time.

Reprising one of his all-time favourite roles as the charismatic and sophisticated New York 'zillionaire' Daddy Warbucks, is Anthony Warlow. He will be joined by the ever-popular Nancye Hayes playing everyone's favourite villain Miss Hannigan. Todd McKenney, Chloë Dallimore and Julie Goodwin also bring their talents to this delightful musical. And in a special treat, radio star Alan Jones will join the cast in the role of Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Gift vouchers for Annie performances are available for purchase in person at the box office or by calling qtix on 136 246.

Bangarra - Terrain

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Wed, 03 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Bangarra Dance Theatre presents Terrain, a new work of contemporary dance and theatre fused with storytelling by acclaimed choreographer Frances Rings.

Inspired by the landscape of one of our greatest natural wonders this work explores the metamorphosis and timeless beauty that is Lake Eyre. Tracing through the erosions of time we face the challenges of man and environment as they struggle for survival amongst the delicate ecology in search of the rare phenomenon that is Australia's inland sea. Beyond the ancient vastness we travel through drought and deluge to witness this ephemeral transformation of place.

Described by choreographer Frances Rings as a "Hymn to Country", this powerfully evocative new work transports us to the scorching arid desert plains where nature delivers in abundance and promises all but guarantees nothing.

"A beautiful dance theatre exploration of spirituality, culture and the body". The Age

Bloodland

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Outsider Cherish will be our guide through a community torn in two, divided by bloodline. This is Cherish's place, this is where she hides away from the real world, speaks to imagined friends and is visited by ghosts of relatives long dead. At the centre of the story is a young couple; two lovers united in their devotion but separated by clan. Theirs is a tale of social dysfunction, black on black conflict and the difficulties of observing traditional lore in a community permeated by western values.

Stephen Page, Artistic Director of Bangarra Dance Theatre and award-winning choreographer, collaborates with writer and actor Wayne Blair on this landmark work. Stephen and Wayne developed this original work for over a year, collaborating with local storytellers in Arnhem Land. Featuring an Indigenous cast of twelve including established urban actors as well as traditional Yolngu storytellers, Bloodland fuses traditional languages and Pidgin English, plus dance and song to tell the story. Bloodland promises to be unique in scale and significance.

Please note that Bloodland contains mild violence

CONCEPT BY Stephen Page
STORY BY Kathy Balngayngu Marika, Stephen Page AND Wayne Blair
WRITTEN BY WAYNE BLAIR.

WITH Kathy Balngayngu Marika, Elaine Crombie, Rarriwuy Hicks, Banula Marika, Noelene Marika, David Page, Hunter Page Lochard, Kelton Pell, Tessa Rose, Meyne Wyatt and Ursula Yovich

DIRECTOR Stephen Page
SET DESIGNER Peter England
COSTUME DESIGNER Jennifer Irwin
LIGHTING DESIGNER Damien Cooper
COMPOSER/SOUND DESIGNER Steve Francis

Bombshells

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sat, 17 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

From the writer of Female of the Species, Rockabye and Ninety comes Bombshells, a cheeky, insightful and salaciously entertaining look at the inner thoughts of the modern Australian woman.

Christen O'Leary is a singing, dancing and acting dynamo who plays a housewife running on empty, a cactus-loving divorcee, an anxious bride, a Glee Club wannabe, a yearning sexagenarian, and a cabaret diva singing her last hurrah.

Bombshells is a witty, funny and intimate theatre romp, jam-packed with vitality and vivacious storytelling.

Please note that Bombshells contains coarse language and sexual references.

Carmen

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Fri, 26 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Bizet's Carmen is one of the world's most celebrated and irresistibly powerful operas.

Set in the sultry background of Seville, Spain, this avant-garde and inspiring production follows the life of the beautiful and free-spirited Carmen, a gypsy rose who melts men's hearts with her unbridled passion and fiery temper.

Innovative and provocative, the soul- stirring music of Carmen, which includes the sultry Habañera and the famous March of the Toreadors, is a perfect foil to the alternating comic and romantic drama in this spectacular production by renowned director Francesca Zambello, who presents a fresh and evocative perspective of this iconic tale of passion.

Carmen's hedonistic and fatalistic free love are as shocking today as they were when the French masterpiece first made its debut in Paris over a century ago. A work of everlasting genius, Carmen is a vibrant feast for all the senses, and guaranteed to get your blood hot and your mind spinning.

Queensland Symphony Orchestra
Opera Queensland Chorus
Sung in French with projected English translations.

This production is presented by arrangement with Opera Australia.

Cliff Joins the Beatles

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Fri, 11 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Celebrating 50 years of The Beatles

The music and the magic that defined a generation. A tribute to the greatest band the world has ever known and the most timeless artist of the rock n' roll era as they come together to create a music fantasy that is more fact than fiction. Over two hours of unforgettable hits that shaped an era and left all who lived it on a high. If you remember the 60's, you weren't there - but when you join Australian music legend Marty Rhone and the remarkable Beatle Boys you will experience an evening you will never forget.

Visit the Cliff Joins the Beatles website for more information.

David Campbell - Let's Go

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sat, 10 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

David Campbell is one of the country's most popular entertainers. Known for his energetic live shows, and selling out tours from coast to coast, David's latest show - Let's Go - promises to be no different.

Featuring David's signature fresh twist on some of the most exciting tracks to come from the early eighties, including Let's Go, Shout To The Top, Come on Eileen, I'm Your Man and Tainted Love, this dynamic show celebrates David Campbell's new album of the same name.

Initially inspired by the revolutionary 'second British invasion' of the early '80s, Let's Go is sure to be the biggest summer party album of 2011. Don't miss your chance to see David Campbell live at the QPAC Concert Hall.

Dickens' Women

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Thu, 22 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Following sellout performances in 2007, BAFTA®-award winning actress Miriam Margolyes returns to Australia for an encore national tour of her one-woman tour-de-force, Dickens' Women.

Bringing to life twenty-three of Charles Dickens' most affecting and colourful female (and male!) characters, Margolyes presents her powerful, comprehensive, and at times hilarious exposé of Dickens, his writing, and the real-life women who found themselves immortalised in his books.

This strictly limited season is part of the worldwide celebrations of 200 years of Charles Dickens in 2012. Don't miss your chance to see this acclaimed actor in the roles she was born to play.

"... a genuine chameleon." Sunday Herald Sun

"When she appears as herself, Margolyes sparkles with intelligence and enthusiasm... when she inhabits a character, you'd swear they lived and breathed in front of you." The Age

"Immense fun..." The Australian

Visit www.dickenswomen.com

Divine Divas

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sat, 28 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Divine Divas is a spectacular and fast-paced superstar female impersonation show featuring breathtaking transformations from our hottest male impersonators to 'leading ladies' and a $150,000 wardrobe of authentically reproduced costumes.

Be dazzled by the glitz, mime and glamour of this Las Vegas-inspired two hour extravaganza, which brings the likes of Cher, Pink, Beyoncé, Tina, Barbra, Dolly, Liza, Kylie, Madonna, Celine, Lady GaGa and much more to the stage.

Divine Divas is a captivating, high-class, fun-filled show with a stellar troupe of gender illusionists including showgirls/boys and dancers wearing enough sequins and bling to light up the galaxy.

Shake a tail feather and book to salute these Diva Superstars with the delicious Divine Divas NOW!

Divine Divas....are Simply The Best.

Fairy Tales - Stories of Hans Christian Andersen

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sat, 01 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT

With the Queensland Symphony Orchestra

Hans Christian Andersen published his first fairy tales in 1835, and his imaginative, magical stories have been loved by generations of children ever since. Far more than simple flights of fancy, tales such as The Red Shoes, The Princess and the Pea, The Little Match Girl, The Snow Queen and The Ugly Duckling, to name just a few, are sophisticated and multi-faceted stories which grew from the author's sharp observance of human nature. Skilfully written with warmth and wisdom, many recount surprisingly sad events, but each is honest and endearing.

In this new ballet, choreographer François Klaus explores some of the best-known stories, and also the life of the storyteller. Despite his humble beginnings, Andersen's exceptional literary skills were to bring him fame and fortune. Let Queensland Ballet take you on a remarkable journey into his fairy tale world.

Guy Sebastian

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Fri, 29 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Tickets go on sale on Friday 17 February at 10am.

For the first time in two years, Guy Sebastian will be headlining his own tour across Australia. The tour coincides with the release of his highly anticipated seventh album Armageddon and will undoubtedly be his biggest and best to date. Tickets will be available from 10am Friday 17 February.

Guy will be at the QPAC Concert Hall for an exclusive 'one night only' performance where he will play all the old favourites, as well as songs from his forthcoming album Armageddon, including the brand new, double platinum single Don't Worry Be Happy.

Guy is one of Australia's greatest singer-songwriters and has proved his place as an Australian idol. After winning the first series in 2003, Guy captured the hearts of Australians with his unique and incredible vocal talent. Since then his success has carried over into six multi-platinum albums and countless sell-out tours. Add to this his string of awards and the fact he is the only Australian male artist in Australian music history to achieve five chart-topping singles - including Angels Brought Me Here, All I Need Is You, Out With My Baby, Like It Like That and Who's That Girl? - and you can see why Guy truly is a world-class talent.

Head Full of Love

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sat, 07 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Annual Alice Springs Beanie Festival is fast approaching and Tilly Napuljari is out of time to finish her new creation in time to enter it for judging. Nessa Tavistock, a Sydneysider, has run away to the red centre to escape her own problems back in the big smoke. Head Full of Love is the story of these two remarkable women and the unlikely but inspiring friendship which forms between them. It invites you to look differently at the possibilities of the humble beanie: a much-loved everyday item, and an extension of ourselves and the everyday lives we wear.

This intricate, warm and wisely told tale by Australian playwright Alana Valentine (Run Rabbit Run, Parramatta Girls) is directed by Wesley Enoch and stars Colette Mann (Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Strange Bedfellows) and Roxanne McDonald (Skin of our Teeth, Parramatta Girls, The Story of the Miracles at Cookie's Table).

Please note: Head Full of Love contains some coarse language and adult themes

Heston Blumenthal Live

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Fri, 04 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Heston Blumenthal Live on Stage!

This enthralling evening will focus on Heston's unique philosophy and approach to cooking, exploring taste and flavour, and his passion for the multi-sensory experience of eating and drinking. The chef of the three Michelin starred Fat Duck Restaurant in the UK and star of Heston's Feasts and the Mission Impossible TV series will demonstrate his philosophies through live scientific experiments on stage.

Heston will take us on a journey from humble beginnings to the creation of iconic dishes such as 'The Sound of the Sea' with edible sand, logic defying Hot and Iced Tea, his famous Snail Porridge and the epic Mock Turtle Soup that takes three days to make. Get the inside story on Heston's incredibly moist Christmas puddings with a candied Valencia orange inside which were so popular they sold out in the UK's Waitrose supermarkets in moments with bidding wars on ebay. As it cooks, the essential oils from the orange peel infuse the pudding from the inside out. Now Heston has created a minced pie that promises to make the house smell like a Christmas tree.

Join Heston on a journey searching the archives at Hampton Court for historic British recipes which inspired the creation of new dishes for 'Dinner by Heston Blumenthal' in Knightsbridge, which has just been be awarded its first Michelin star after only nine months in operation.

There is only one Heston and there is only one night - book now!

Visit www.hestonlive.com.au for more information

I Musici - Viva Italia 60th Anniversary Tour

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

I Musici is the oldest continuously active chamber group in Italy and one of the most respected chamber ensembles in existence today. At their first performance in Rome in 1952, I Musici broke all the rules, playing baroque concerti with a tight knit ensemble of just twelve players and no conductor. A year later, their historic first recording of Vivaldi's Four Seasons introduced Italian 18th Century music to the world, selling over 25 million copies to become one of the most famous compositions of the entire musical repertoire.

QPAC is thrilled to welcome to the Concert Hall Italy's legendary baroque string ensemble as they celebrate sixty years of vibrant and virtuosic music-making. Paying homage to their musical heritage with works by Italian masters Rossini, Donizetti and Paganini, this will be an unforgettable concert, culminating with their historic and superlative interpretation of Vivaldi's magnificent Four Seasons - unmatched for its vigour, dynamism, sensitivity and sheer muscular energy.

Rossini
Sonata a quattro no.1 in G major

Paganini
Il Mosè, theme and variations for violin and strings
Soloist: Ettore Pellegrino, violin

Donizetti
Allegro in C for strings

Rossini
Une Larme - Theme and variations for cello and strings
Soloist: Pietro Bosna, cello

Vivaldi
The Four Seasons
Soloist: Antonio Anselmi, violin

Jessye Norman in Recital

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Wed, 02 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Jessye Norman is an iconic soprano who has created her own niche as a result of exceptional performances in opera and classical music.

Miss Norman's style explores jazz, spirituals and songs from American musical theatre to great acclaim. Jessye Norman's joy of singing and spontaneous passion is evident when she performs her extensive repertoire.

Miss Norman's American Master's recital features renowned NY pianist Mark Markham and includes songs by Duke Ellington and George Gershwin, and pays homage to Ella Fitzgerald, Lena Horne and Josephine Baker.

Don't miss this rare opportunity to experience the magnificence of a musical legend live on stage.

Read more about Jessye Norman

Johnny Clegg

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Fri, 09 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Johnny Clegg returns to Brisbane on his third Australian tour, this time to launch his latest album HUMAN.

As an icon of South Africa, Johnny Clegg continues to draw on various styles and genres of music. His creativity lies in his in-depth understanding of traditional Zulu rhythm and the dance routines which are a feature of the show.

The opening track of HUMAN, Love in the time of Gaza, meshes the aforementioned Zulu rhythm template with an arrangement that could have easily have worked in a Mercury-era of "Tears for Fears", released to chronicle his quest for optimism in the ongoing unrest that has plagued the nations of Israel and Palestine since the Biblical days.

The show at QPAC's Concert Hall will include his greatest hits, such as Impi, Scatterlings of Africa, African Sky Blue, I Call your Name and many other well-known favourites that pack his ninety minute performance.

Johnny Clegg: The Human Tour
www.johnnyclegg.com

Warning: This performance contains strobe lighting, smoke and fog.

Join the Family Events waitlist

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Tue, 17 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Do you want to know when any family events are on sale at QPAC? Whether it be family musicals, ballet, circus or concerts, join the Family Events Waitlist and we will let you know when tickets go on sale.

Join the waitlist now.

Join the Musicals Waitlist

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Tue, 01 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Are you a fan of musical theatre? Join the Musicals Waitlist and we will alert you to special priority booking offers so you can be amongst the first to secure your seats for the hottest show in town.

Join the waitlist today.

Join the QPAC Dining Waitlist

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Join QPAC's Dining Waitlist

Entertain your taste buds at QPAC. Join the Dining Waitlist and be amongst the first to receive invitations to upcoming dining events and exclusive special offers.

Join the Waitlist now!

Join the Waitlist for Hamburg

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Performing in Australia for the first time and exclusively in Brisbane, are the three great companies of Hamburg – Hamburg Ballet, Hamburg Philharmonic Orchestra and Hamburg State Opera. Join the waitlist for Hamburg and we will alert you to special priority booking offers so you can be amongst the first to secure your seats.

Join the waitlist today.

Kelly

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sat, 15 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Ned Kelly sits in a grimy cell at Old Melbourne Gaol on the night before his execution. His brother and fellow gang member Dan, who Ned believes died at the siege of Glenrowan, visits disguised as a priest. He's seeking Ned's blessing and
forgiveness before heading north to start a new life in Queensland. But after everything they've been through together over the years, and how all of this has affected them, a blessing is not an easy ask. Brothers of the same blood and name, but with very different perspectives of their past. Cowards, murderers or heroes? Life or death?

Now, at the end, they confront each other, striving to understand their past. Dramatically entwining fact, theory and myth, Kelly is the latest achievement of Brisbane-based playwright Matthew Ryan (boy girl wall, Sacré Bleu). It is masterfully balanced with light and shade, and the quick-fire banter between the characters resonates with a crass but irresistible brand of Australian humour. Kelly is a fast-moving, action-packed story which portrays the infamous cult heroes in a totally new light.

Please note: Kelly contains coarse language and adult themes

Les Ballets Eloelle - Men in Pink Tights

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Fri, 01 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Making their World Premiere season in Australia, Les Ballets Eloelle are bringing their new production Men In Pink Tights - the most spectacular, talented and hilarious all-male comedy ballet ever - to the QPAC Concert Hall.

The greatest troupe of it is kind in the world, Les Ballets Eloelle features an array of the best international professional male ballet dancers who have danced with companies such as the New York Ballet, The American Ballet Theatre, Royal Ballet, Paris Opera Ballet, Joffrey Ballet and Hong Kong Ballet.

From the thrilling pirouettes of the male dancers (in male and female costumes), to the brilliant choreography and outrageous hissy fits, Men in Pink Tights is a show designed for the young and old.

"Artistically brilliant, absolutely hilarious." New York Post

"It is not a drag show, but a brilliant artistic and comical send up of the world of dance." USA Today

Macbeth in Concert

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Fri, 13 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

By Giuseppe Verdi

Witchcraft, insanity, manipulation and medieval justice...

This is the classic tale of Macbeth, the story of a Scottish nobleman whose gallant code of honour is soon awash in the spilt blood of his friends and family. Treachery and deceit descend like a dark fog upon a once self-sacrificing man, whose corrupt fate drives him, his love and his nation into violence and disaster.

The dramatic simplicity of this special concert production of Macbeth delivers a powerful and contemporary edge to Giuseppe Verdi's potent operatic rendition of the age-old Scottish tale.

Shakespeare's horrific and erotic narrative of blind ambition in 11th century Scotland has captured the hearts and imaginations of audiences for centuries. Everyone from operatic master Verdi to hip hoppers like the Wu-Tang Clan has had their own take on Macbeth. Discover the intoxicating brew of sex, song and power in this unique concert production.

Macbeth in Concert is sung in Italian with projected English subtitles.

Managing Carmen

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sat, 13 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Brent Lyall has it all. At 23 years old he has a beautiful girlfriend, two Brownlow medals, and he's already the captain of one of the most powerful football clubs in the land. There's just one small hitch. Occasionally he enjoys dressing up in women's clothes. Uncovering his client's penchant for cross dressing, Brent's wily agent Rohan Swift swings into damage control to prevent the devastating truth from coming out. The media already has a whiff of the story and the humiliation of a public outing would spell the end of the athlete's career, not to mention the mountains of cash they're both making through endorsements.

Inevitably, the AFL player's addiction is irrepressible and his alter ego must be set free.

With more than 40 years in the business and a string of box office successes, David Williamson (The Club, Don's Party, Let the Sunshine) has earned a reputation as our country's most popular and successful playwright. Managing Carmen is Williamson's latest laugh-out-loud instalment, holding a mirror up to the personalities we've all come to love and hate - the whatever-it-takes businessman, the bimbo trophy wife, and of course, the flawed footy hero.

Mary & Me

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Mary & Me
Mary Poppins and her creator P.L. Travers

Few literary characters inhabit a life of their own the way Mary Poppins has.

When the sometimes stern and often magical nanny first appeared in print in 1934, she already seemed oddly familiar. Queensland-born author P.L. Travers insisted that she didn't invent the character, but merely wrote her down. Wherever she came from, Mary Poppins has delighted children and adults alike for decades.

She has appeared in a series of books written by Travers, a much-loved Disney film featuring Julie Andrews and now in a spectacular stage musical.

Mary & Me looks at this remarkable journey from page to stage and features original papers from the P.L. Travers collections from the Mitchell Library at the State Library of New South Wales, archival video and costumes from the current musical version of Mary Poppins.

Mary Poppins

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

MARY POPPINS
THE SUPERCALIFRAGILISTIC MUSICAL

Disney and Cameron Mackintosh invite you to let your imagination take flight as you step into the magical world of MARY POPPINS.

Brilliantly adapted from the beloved books by Australia's own P.L.Travers and the classic 1964 Walt Disney film, MARY POPPINS arrives at the Lyric Theatre QPAC, Brisbane in December 2011 for a strictly limited season.

MARY POPPINS has captured the hearts of millions since premiering on the West End and Broadway, and now you can experience the unforgettable songs, stunning choreography and unsurpassed stagecraft of this extraordinary theatrical event.

PRODUCER PACKAGE:
$175 per ticket in exclusive allocation
Includes program and souvenir "Making of" DVD per transaction.

This package is available from Wednesday 25 January until the end of the season. Excludes Wednesday Matinee performances.

Greats seats still available for performances this Wednesday and Thursday evenings. Tickets from just $45* (C-Reserve), book now! *Please note, transaction fees from $5.95 apply to bookings.

Melissa Etheridge

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Tue, 10 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Frontier Touring Company is proud to announce that Oscar® and Grammy award-winning singer-songwriter Melissa Etheridge is returning to New Zealand and Australia for a very special July 2012 live tour.

Fans will experience an intimate evening of over two hours of powerful performances from Melissa’s extensive catalogue of hits when she returns for her first Australian appearances since 1996.

On September 27, 2011 the Grammy Award-winning singer officially reached global star status after she received the honour of having her own star placed on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. This comes on top of her remarkable 2007 Academy Award for her song “I Need To Wake Up,” written for the Al Gore documentary on global warming, An Inconvenient Truth.

The singer’s honest and confessional song writing style paired with her bluesy rock-infused vocals has seen her rise to the top of the musical spectrum since the her 1988 debut album Melissa Etheridge, which is certified triple platinum in Australia and double platinum in New Zealand.

Etheridge’s 1993 album Yes I Am contained the massive hits ‘I’m the Only One’ and ‘Come to My Window’, a scorching song of desire that delivered her second Best Female Rock Grammy. Since then, Melissa has continued to tour constantly and has released a total of ten studio albums, and has recently launched the daily Melissa Etheridge Radio Show for broadcast throughout the world.

Don't miss your chance to see the legendary performer live at the Concert Hall, QPAC.

Mr Righteousman - Reggae Music Concert

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sat, 23 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The African-based musician Righteousman has been described as one of the finest Reggae musicians the world has ever produced. As with many of his contemporaries, the church breathed musical life into his lungs and he has remained in the industry for two decades gathering accolades, fame and respect. With 14 albums, a string of hits containing themes of social responsibility and universal love and the highest number of videos on African television, Righteousman is arguably one of Nigeria's most thoroughbred Reggae ambassadors.

His most recent album, Who Dat Man, features collaborations with worldwide recognised musicians Lester Lewis, Buchi and Ruffman. Since its release, Righteousman has been ministering to thousands of believers and fans all around the world. See the 2011 winner of Nigeria's Best Gospel Reggae Artist Award live at QPAC's Concert Hall!

Musica Viva - Tafelmusik

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

If you've ever wondered what the universe sounds like, here is your chance. Canadian ensemble Tafelmusik will take you on an epic space odyssey, performing exquisite period music from memory before stunning images from the Hubble deep space telescope. Combining music, photography and story-telling, The Galileo Project brings to life the brilliant minds of the early astronomers and the music that inspired them, as a large-scale, ever-changing backdrop of stars and planets unfolds. Using the best of Bach, Handel, Monteverdi and Vivaldi, come and hear the tunes that were probably stuck in Galileo's head when he discovered the moons of Jupiter.

Naturally 7 - All Natural Tour

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Tue, 22 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Naturally 7 return to QPAC with a collection of new songs and vocal tricks to excite audiences.

Naturally 7 infuse hip-hop, beatboxing, jazz, gospel, Motown and R&B in an astounding style called Vocal Play. Lending their phenomenal musical talents to some of pops greatest hits and originals, they pump out not just the melodies and harmonies, but the drums, guitars, horns and beats - with nothing but the human voice.

From singing as an A Cappella gospel group in New York's Bronx in the late 90's, Naturally 7 cover a huge variety of music including the iconic hits of the Beatles and Simon & Garfunkel, and the Phil Collins' classic Feel It (In the Air Tonight). Recent releases include Soul Bossa Nostra (recorded with star rapper Ludacris for Quincy Jones) and the singles Keep the Customer Satisfied and Life Goes On, based on the George Michael WHAM! hit Everything She Wants.

Following their sell-out Vocal Play - Australia Tour in March 2011, electrifying performances at the Hollywood Bowl, and earning standing ovations as special guests on Michael Bublé's Crazy Love World Tour, Naturally 7 are back with their new show.

The All Natural Tour performs in Perth, Brisbane, Adelaide, Sydney and Melbourne and will include material from their new album, hits from their seven studio albums and new arrangements of iconic pop songs.

"Formidable... energising ... magnificent." THE GUARDIAN

"One of the most original and captivating groups of entertainers I've ever seen." MICHAEL BUBLÉ

(Naturally 7 will perform the entire concert joined by guest beatboxing sensation, Tom Thumb.)

Opera Australia - A Midsummer Night's Dream

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Fri, 01 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Deep in the forest the fairies are stirring. As Benjamin Britten's spellbindingly beautiful score slips seductively over the audience, discover a place where Indian gods, British colonials and rustic clowns collide, collude and sometimes fall in love. A Midsummer Night's Dream is here. Before there was ROMEO + JULIET, this was the production that showed the world the boundless imaginations of director Baz Luhrmann and designer Catherine Martin. Inspired by the words of Shakespeare and Britten's magical score, they dreamt up a colour-drenched realm of midsummer magic, and in doing so, created one of Opera Australia's most celebrated productions, ever.

Paul Kildea will conduct a collection of outstanding singers who will guide you through the enchanted forest. Tobias Cole and Lorina Gore play the King and Queen of the Fairies, while Tyler Coppin and Conal Coad reprise their unforgettable performances of Puck and Bottom.

Performed in English with surtitles.

Conductor Paul Kildea, Director Baz Lurhmann, Set Designer Bill Marron, Costume Designer Catherine Martin, Lighting Designer Nigel Levings

Save up to $37 per ticket with our Opera Package.

Save up to $52 per ticket with our Youth Opera Package.

Opera Australia - The Magic Flute

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sat, 26 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Welcome to a world where animals dance and children fly, where princes battle dragons and hope battles despair. To a world where ideas matter, and music saves the day. Welcome to a magical experience for the whole family in an enchanting new production of Mozart's The Magic Flute. Julie Taymor, director of Disney's The Lion King, has taken Mozart's fairy tale and turned it into a show that, in the spirit of the original, speaks to the child in all of us. A feisty young cast brings this landmark production to Brisbane.

Andrew Brunsdon is Tamino, with Andrew Jones as Papageno, and Taryn Fiebig as Pamina. The towering role of Queen of the Night is taken on by Brisbane based soprano, Milica Ilic, and David Parkin is Sarastro. Tamino is a noble prince on a quest. He discovers strange lands, inhabited by wondrous creatures - scary women, wise children and even a bird man - but that is not what he is looking for. Will Tamino finally discover the truth? And will he find true love?

Performed in English with surtitles.

This production is reproduced by Opera Australia from the original production of The Magic Flute by the Metropolitan Opera, New York. Translation by J.D. McClatchy. Performed by arrangement with The Metropolitan Opera, publisher and sole copyright holder.

Conductor Anthony Legge, Director Julie Taymor, Set Designer George Tsypin, Costume Designer Julie Taymor, Puppetry Designers Julie Taymor & Michael Curry, Lighting Designer Gary Marder based on original design by Donald Holder

Save up to $37 per ticket with our Opera Package.

Save up to $52 per ticket with our Youth Opera Package.

Petula Clark

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Fri, 16 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Petula Clark
Once More With Love

The Legendary Film and theatre music star and two-time Grammy Award Winner Petula Clark returns for an Australian Tour in March 2012, proudly presented by ATA AllStar Artists. Her career has been extraordinary and outstanding that has spanned over 65 years, with more gold albums to her credit than any other British artist. She has sold in excess of 68
million records throughout her career, and is one of the most sought-after recording artists and concert personalities in the world today.

She started her professional career as an entertainer on BBC Radio, made her film debut in Maurice Elvey-directed comedy Medal For The General in 1944 and went on to becoming internationally known for her popular upbeat hits that included Downtown, I Know A Place, My Love, Colour My World, A Sign Of The Times, Don't Sleep In The Subway, This Is My Song (written for her by the great Charles Chaplin) and many others. She is in constant demand with lead roles in major theatrical productions such as Sound Of Music, Blood Brothers and Sunset Boulevard. In 1998 she was honoured by Queen Elizabeth II by being made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire.

Picnic Baskets

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

JOLLY HOLIDAY FAMILY PICNIC BASKET | $45 per basket

Perfect for four, your family will love the beautiful wicker picnic basket filled with mouth-watering goodies including gourmet chicken pieces, a scrumptious selection of salads and crusty bread rolls. Topped off with goodies such as chocolate brownies, mini cupcakes and fresh summer fruit, happiness will be bloomin' all around.

Enjoy a splendid summer lunch or dinner before your performance with your Jolly Holiday Family Picnic Basket.

PRACTICALLY PERFECT PICNIC BASKET | $33 per basket

The ultimate picnic feast for two, share a carefully chosen platter of antipasto and fine cheeses plus two crab and avocado baguettes presented in a beautiful wicker picnic basket. For dessert you will love our selection of sweets including handpicked strawberries and cream.

Relax before your performance and enjoy lunch or dinner with your Practically Perfect Picnic Basket.

Numbers are limited, so sweep in quickly and order your picnic today!

Drinks available for separate purchase include Emma & Toms Juice, Mineral h2o, Soft Drinks, Wine and Beer
Price includes the hire of your picnic basket and blanket

QPAC Choir Jan - June 2012

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Are you ready to make music?

JOIN THE QPAC CHOIR

Something magical happens when a group of individuals sing together, making music so much greater than the sum of its parts. Don't miss your chance to be part of this unique experience.

The QPAC Choir is a contemporary choir for people of all ages. Rehearsing Monday nights, the QPAC Choir provides access to imaginative repertoire, challenging skill development, social opportunities and public performance.

The choir is an initiative of the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) and is managed as part of QPAC's artistic program. Chorusmaster Alison Rogers leads the choir and choir members also work with other professional conductors and musicians from time to time.

Auditions are held in a friendly, supportive environment. You should complete an audition before making payment. Music reading skills and/or singing experience are considered an advantage, however members of various abilities do participate and are encouraged to continue their musical learning throughout the year.

The QPAC Choir also have several public performance opportunities throughout the year including the Spirit of Christmas concerts in the QPAC Concert Hall.

For more information visit www.qpac.com.au/choir

Website includes:
More information about the QPAC Choir
How to Join
Weekly rehearsal schedule
Photos of choir rehearsals and performance

QSO - Circus! Circus!

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sun, 11 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Today's children are reliant on more sophisticated forms of entertainment than the circus, but a glance at the list of composers featured in this wonderful concert reveals the creative impact of the circus and the fairground atmosphere on musicians of highly diverse characters. Enjoy Gould's Concerto for Tap Dancer and Orchestra as well as Stravinsky's Circus Polka written with the subtitle "composed for a baby elephant" as a parody. Yet not everything is bright and gaudy: Nino Rota's score for Fellini's classic La Strada The Road, evokes a nostalgic tenderness towards these nomadic performers.

Conductor
Johannes Fritzsch

Presenter
Guy Noble

Tenor
Kang Wang

Tap Dancer
Bill Simpson

QSO - Espana!

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sun, 11 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Is there any country in the world whose music sets the pulse racing and heals tapping more than Spain? The glare of the Iberian sun, the plaintive wail of the gypsy, the click of the heels in flamenco dances, the roar of the bullfight crowd...Maestro Fritzsch, the QSO and Guy Noble will transport you with magical music, including excerpts from Carmen and culminating in Ravel's Boléro.

Can you resist its powerful spell? Why not follow with a glass of sangria and tapas... what's Spanish for heaven?

Conductor
Johannes Fritzsch

Presenter
Guy Noble

Soprano
Kiandra Howarth

Baritone
José Carbo

QSO - Great Favourites

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sun, 22 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

These you have loved. We've assembled your favourite pieces from our Music on Sundays programs over the years, the melodies which may have changed your lives and become the ones you want to hear more and more. Swoon to the strains of all your old favourites by composers including Mozart, Elgar and Tchaikovsky, all packaged together with the incomparable Guy Noble hosting the event.

Conductor /Presenter
Guy Noble

Trumpet
Sarah Wilson

QSO - Handel's Messiah

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sat, 01 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Composed in just three weeks Handel's Messiah has enthralled and transported people of all faiths for more than 250 years. This work has proven to be one of the transcendent glories not just of Western music, but Western civilization itself. Former Glyndebourne Chorus Master Tecwyn Evans heads a performing cast of acknowledged Handel specialists and the Brisbane Chorale.

Soprano
Susannah Andersson

Mezzo-soprano
Georgia Hawes

Tenor
Henry Choo

Baritone
David Wakeham

Choir
Brisbane Chorale

QSO - Lord of the Rings

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Fri, 03 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Composer Howard Shore brings J.R.R. Tolkien's literary imagination to vivid life with his Academy®- and Grammy® Award-winning score to The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring. Shore's music expresses Peter Jackson's film as an immense symphonic work--a uniquely developed vision drawn from centuries of stylistic tendencies.

The music of The Lord of the Rings is counted among film music's most complex and comprehensive works. This unique performance sets the score to the film, but allows the music to bear the narrative weight, creating a wholly new and dramatic live concert experience. Shore's score not only captures Fellowship's sweeping emotion, thrilling vistas and grand journeys, but also echoes the very construction of Tolkien's Middle-earth. Styles, instruments and performers collected from around the world provide each of Tolkien's cultures with a unique musical imprint. In operatic fashion, these musical worlds co-mingle, sometimes combining forces for a culminated power, other times violently clashing...and always bending to the will of the One Ring and its own ominous family of themes.

Conductor
Ludwig Wicki

Soprano
Kaitlyn Lusk

QSO - Nordic Fantasy

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Marvel at the majestic landscapes these composers depicted and also at the unique voices and colours they achieved. Be transported to beautiful Nordic fields and romantic images of pastoral scenes then be brought back to earth with music with a more tragic side. Edvard Grieg, perhaps the most beloved of all Nordic composers, wrote music bursting with lyrical beauty.

Conductor
Eivind Aadland

Presenter
Guy Noble

Violin
Warwick Adeney

QSO - Romance and Passion

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sun, 24 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

What is this thing called love? Whatever it is, it certainly makes the world, and music, go round. Love and romance have been the most powerful source of inspiration to composers of all ages: the euphoric love of Romeo and Juliet... even Beethoven (forever unlucky in love) who entrusted his love song to a solo violin. Eivind Aadland, Kang Wang and Milica Ilic, QSO, spiced with a few typically wry comments from the permanently lovestruck Guy Noble, explore some of music's pinnacles of passion.

Conductor
Eivind Aadland

Presenter
Guy Noble

Soprano
Milica Ilic

Tenor
Kang Wang

Violin
Warwick Adeney

QSO - Russian Spectacular

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sun, 07 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Russian music, like the land itself, is a universe. This wonderful program is not just a journey through this vast, mysterious country, but a not-to-be-missed exploration of the Russian soul through its music, led by Russian Conductor Edvard Tchivzhel. The program ranges from the exquisite melancholy of Shostakovich's Gadfly to the gorgeous fantasy of Rimsky-Korsakov's Sadko.

Conductor
Edvard Tchivzhel

Presenter
Guy Noble

Tenor
Kang Wang

QSO - Towards the Flame

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sat, 17 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Dancers from the Aboriginal Centre for the Performing Arts (ACPA) join with Expressions Dance Company (EDC) and the QSO to perform a moving and dramatic production including a smouldering version of Carmen performed by EDC (who recently won two Helpmann awards) and ACPA presenting Igor Stravinsky's most popular work, The Firebird Suite.

Conductor
Johannes Fritzsch

Dancers
Aboriginal Centre for Performing Arts, directed by Penny Mullen and Marcus Hughes

Dancers
Expressions Dance Company directed by Natalie Weir

Beethoven
Prometheus: Overture

Stra vinsky
Fireworks

Stravinsky
Firebird Suite (1919 version)

Shchedrin
Carmen Suite

QSO Plays Beethoven

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Sergio Tiempo, a pianist one critic hailed as "irresistible" in Chopin, performs his magnum opus, which, despite its larger scale remains unmistakably and triumphantly Chopinesque and a tribute to the unique emotions the composer poured into it, epecially in the slow movement, which is really an exquisite nocturne. Beethoven's ever fresh Pastoral Symphony shows how a genius like Beethoven could even improve on the perfection of nature in this favourite work.

Conductor
Arturo Enrique Diemecke

Piano
Sergio Tiempo

Chopin
Piano Concerto No.1

Beethoven
Symphony No.6 Pastoral

QSO Plays Elgar: Enigma

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Thu, 15 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Like so many of Haydn's named symphonies, no one quite knows how the Symphony No.88 came to be nicknamed The Letter V. None of this matters when you hear the blend of wit, charm and inventiveness of this wonderful score. Elgar's Enigma Variations, another quintessentially English masterpiece, immortalized his affectionate portraits of tweedy eccentrics but the noble strains of the Nimrod variation are among the most moving and beloved English music ever composed. Marshall McGuire, an extraordinary harp player, plays Boieldieu's Harp Concerto with a lyricism that will delight.

Conductor
Nicholas Braithwaite

Harp
Marshall McGuire

Haydn
Symphony No.88

Boieldieu
Harp Concerto

Elgar
Enigma Variations

QSO Plays Mendelssohn

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Thu, 16 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Experience the amazing keyboard synergy of this phenomenal duo who think and play as one in the scintillating Concerto for Two pianos in E major by Mendelssohn. Beethoven's Symphony No.4 is one of the composer's least known and highlights his great individuality.

Conductor
Johannes Fritzsch

Piano Duo
Sivan Silver and Gil Garburg

Mendelssohn
Concerto for Two Pianos in E major

Beethoven
Symphony No.4

QSO Plays Tchaikovsky

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Thu, 03 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A program no romantic should miss! Shakespeare's play takes almost three hours but in twenty minutes Tchaikovsky distilled the drama and emotion in his Romeo & Juliet Fantasy Overture as no other composer ever could. Tchaikovsky's Polish Symphony was named for the spectacular polonaise in the finale, but this five-movement work is brimming with other wonderful melodies and great musical ideas from first note to last and everyone who hears it for the first time will want to hear it more often. Tatiana Polyanskaya spices this Russian spectacular with Arensky's colourful Fanstasia on Themes by Ryabinin.

Conductor
Valery Polyansky

Piano
Tatiana Polyanskaya

Tchaikovsky
Romeo and Juliet Fanstasy Overture

Arensky
Fantasia on Themes by Ryabinin
Op.48

Tchaikovsky
Symphony No.3 Polish

QSO Symphonic Spectacular

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Wed, 07 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

It's a bird....it's a plane....it's Queensland Symphony Orchestra! Be blown away by the strength, power and ambition of a full orchestral sound in our Symphonic Spectacular. With their armour of instruments, see the QSO musicians conquer the tunes written by musical heroes along with spectacular music from famous superhero soundtracks including Batman and Lord of the Rings. Visit us at QPAC in the heart of South Bank's cultural precinct to experience the superhuman powers of music.

Conductor Luke Dollman

Soloist Young Instrumentalist Competition Winner 2012

QSO with Edvard Tchivzhel

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sat, 29 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Russian Conductor Edvard Tchivzhel returns to Brisbane with Tchaikovsky's symphonic poem Francesca da Rimini, a musical vortex of anguished love where the music demonstrates a lyrical and dramatic genius. In the final work Maestro Tchivzhel and the orchestra will sweep the audience into total submission with Rachmaninov's Symphonic Dances, darkly glamorous, even slightly wicked music and his last orchestral work... In between, Russian pianist Nikolai Demidenko, once described as a force of nature at the keyboard, in Rachmaninov's spikily brilliant Fourth Piano Concerto. Both works prove Rachmaninov's creative power remained undimmed at the end of his life.

Conductor
Edvard Tchivzhel

Piano
Nikolai Demidenko

Tchaikovsky
Francesca da Rimini

Rachmaninov
Piano Concerto No.4

Rachmaninov
Symphonic Dances

QSO with Eivind Aadland

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sat, 16 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Roger Woodward, whose Bach performances were described as the most searching since Glenn Gould's, makes his only Australian appearance in his 70th birthday year. The Orchestra's Principal Guest Conductor, Eivind Aadland, returns to conduct Mahler's Ninth Symphony, the crowning glory of the great Austro- Germanic symphonic tradition which began with Haydn and Mozart. The Ninth is a work of genius, with passages of anguished beauty juxtaposed with mock-gaiety and sardonic wit. The final adagio is one of Mahler's most profound and moving statements, full of majestic resignation and far from earthly tribulations.

Conductor
Eivind Aadland

Piano
Roger Woodward

JS Bach
Keyboard Concerto No.1 in D Minor

Mahler
Symphony No.9

QSO with Eldar Nebolsin

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sat, 24 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Long overshadowed by the ubiquitous First, Tchaikovsky's Second Piano Concerto is finally receiving its just acknowledgement. Here is a rare chance to hear this marvelously expansive work in its entirety and marvel at the long reverie during the slow movement where the piano participates in a dialogue with cello and violin. It is performed by Eldar Nebolsin, who has garnered accolades for his recordings of Romantic music. Another revelation is the Gorchakov arrangement of Mussorgsky's Pictures at an Exhibition. Many leading conductors believe this orchestration conveys more of the colour, vitality and earthiness of old Russia. This sensational version is like looking at the pictures with decades of varnish removed..

Conductor
Johannes Fritzsch

Piano
Eldar Nebolsin

Tchaikovsky
Piano Concerto No.2

Mussorgsky Arr.Gorchakov
Pictures at an Exhibition

QSO with Esther Yoo

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The sight of young artists fearlessly conquering concertos which strike fear into the hearts of much older players is familiar now, but 17 year old Esther Yoo's heart-stopping blend of confidence and bravura tempered by poise is indescribably exciting, especially in Sibelius' Violin Concerto, with which she won the 2010 Sibelius Competition in Helsinki. With its dark brooding opening, song-like slow movement and restlessly dancing finale, it's widely regarded as the most taxing in the repertoire. Prokofiev's Romeo and Juliet ballet is one of the greatest scores of the twentieth century, its transcendent "symphonic" qualities make it widely performed in the concert hall where it never fails to move audiences with its power and eloquence.

Conductor
Eivind Aadland

Violin
Esther Yoo

Sibelius
Finlandia

Sibelius
Violin Concerto

Prokofiev
Romeo and Juliet Suite

QSO with Jack Liebeck

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sat, 27 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

No composer's works symbolize the spirit of Habsburg Vienna more vividly than the Strauss family and their immortal waltzes, with Johann Strauss the Younger's masterpiece in 3/4 time, On the Beautiful Blue Danube, the favourite of them all. After the dance, luxuriate in the voluptuous sounds of QSO's strings in one of the last and greatest outpourings of Romantic Viennese music, Arnold Schonberg's Transfigured Night. In his annual pilgrimage to Queensland, British violinist Jack Liebeck, reprises his 2011 success with Brahms' profound and moving Violin Concerto; a work which enshrines the composer's soul.

Conductor
Johannes Fritzsch

Violin
Jack Liebeck

Strauss
On the Beautiful Blue Danube

Schönberg
Transfigured Night

Brahms
Violin Concerto

QSO with Johannes Fritzsch

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sat, 21 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Queensland Symphony Orchestra's Principal Cello, David Lale, and Principal Viola, Yoko Okayasu, shine respectively as the hero and his faithful servant Sancho Panza in Richard Strauss' masterful tone poem, Don Quixote; the work which captures the spirit of Cervantes' novel and portrays the poignant images of this sublime human tragic-comedy. Ernest Newman wrote "for wit, humour, pathos and humanity, there is nothing like it in all music." Before interval Principal Oboe of Amsterdam's illustrious Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, Alexei Ogrintchouk, brings a special lustre to Mozart's sparkling Oboe Concerto and Beethoven, in his equally sparkling, witty and brief Eighth Symphony, proves that he was also the god of small things.

Conductor
Johannes Fritzsch

Oboe
Alexei Ogrintchouk

Cello
David Lale

Viola
Yoko Okayasu

Beethoven
Symphony No.8

Mozart
Oboe Concerto

R Strauss
Don Quixote

QSO with Lisa Gasteen

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sat, 11 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Johannes Fritzsch and the QSO demonstrate the synergy they have created in their magisterial Bruckner cycle with the most awesome of all, the Eighth; a work conductors and orchestras don't perform as much as construct out of hewn granite.

Despite its dark, sinister beginning, it ends in a blaze of glorious optimism, as befitted the God-fearing Bruckner. The intimacy and restrained passion of Wagner's Wesendonck Lieder capture the intensity of forbidden love, anticipating the atmosphere of his opera, Tristan & Isolde and provide an opportunity for internationally acclaimed Australian soprano and Wagner specialist, Lisa Gasteen to captivate Brisbane audiences with rapturous singing.

Conductor
Johannes Fritzsch

Soprano
Lisa Gasteen

Wagner/Arr. Mottl
Wesendonck Lieder

Bruckner
Symphony No.8

QSO with Markus Schirmer

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sat, 03 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Experience the exhilarating sound and visceral excitement of nine trumpets and the enlarged Queensland Symphony Orchestra brass section under Chief Conductor, Johannes Fritzsch. Sinfonietta showcases Janácek's striking originality and dramatically rough-hewn sonorities. Mozart's later masterpieces demonstrate his genius in transcending the emotional and stylistic boundaries of the eighteenth century. His Piano Concerto in C minor K.491, one of only two in this genre in a minor key, has demonic and intense qualities which make it a favourite of pianists such as Markus Schirmer. The Jupiter Symphony, Mozart's glorious symphonic swan song, revels in its power while retaining his hallmark elegance and charm.

Conductor
Johannes Fritzsch

Piano
Markus Schirmer

R. Strauss
Festliches Praeludium Op.61

Mozart
Symphony No.41 in C, K.551 Jupiter

Mozart
Piano Concerto No.24 in C minor, K.491

JanáCek
Sinfonietta

QSO with Piers Lane

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Fri, 13 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Leonard Bernstein's Candide Overture is the musical equivalent of opening a bottle of champagne, while George Gershwin's Piano Concerto in F radiates all the confidence and brashness of 1920s New York, with art deco skyscrapers and dazzling neon signs. Piers Lane, who regularly inspires the critics, performs this concerto, a spectacularly successful marriage of jazz-inspired idiom and classical form. However much Dvoràk may have been captivated by the big sky and wide open prairies of the US when he wrote his New World Symphony, the lilt and freshness of this most beloved symphony tell us that his heart and soul remained in his native Bohemia.

Conductor
Johannes Fritzsch

Piano
Piers Lane

Bernstein
Candide Overture

Gershwin
Piano Concerto in F

Dvoràk
Symphony No.9 From the New World

QSO with Sergio Tiempo

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Fri, 30 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Venezuelan Martha Argerich protégé, Sergio Tiempo, made one of the most sensational debuts ever in his 2011 Brisbane concerts, hailed as much for the deep insights and emotional fervour he brings to virtuoso showpieces as for his electric virtuosity. In 2012, he returns in triumph to perform Rachmaninov's Piano Concerto No.3, the paragon of arch romantic piano concertos. Mexican firebrand, Arturo Enrique Diemecke, leads the orchestra with panache in Debussy's Nocturnes and La mer's delightful melodies, confirming the theory that Debussy deserves more frequent performances.

Conductor
Arturo Enrique Diemecke

Piano
Sergio Tiempo

Debussy
Nocturnes

Debussy
La mer

Rachmaninov
Piano Concerto No.3

QSO with Stephen Kovacevich

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Queensland Symphony bursts into 2012 with Maestro Gerard Schwarz. Acclaimed on both sides of the Atlantic, the Maestro conducts Shostakovich's truly epic Tenth Symphony, hailed by many as his finest. This is a work where, in its supposed portrait of the dictator Josef Stalin in all his grim power, the music reaches levels of almost indescribable tension and profound emotional intensity, ultimately released by the euphoria of the finale. Stephen Kovacevich has been beguiling audiences with the colour, warmth and transcendent lyricism of Beethoven's Fourth Piano Concerto for almost half a century. Now it's Brisbane's turn to celebrate Kovacevich's 70th birthday and the magic he weaves with the QSO.

Conductor
Gerard Schwarz

Piano
Stephen Kovacevich

Beethoven
Piano Concerto No.4

Shostakovich
Symphony No.10

QSO with Valery Polyansky

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sat, 12 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Only a Russian conductor like Valery Polyansky can invest Borodin's music with the uniquely Slavic sense of yearning; nowhere is this more heartfelt that in his Second Symphony. Let Maestro Polyansky and QSO envelope you in its gorgeously sinuous melodies. In total contrast, Shostakovich's Piano Concerto No.1 is a walk on the wild side and reveals the composer at his most subversively and mischievously satirical. At the premiere of his Festival Overture, composed to commemorate the 37th anniversary of the October Revolution, the audience was ordered to applaud. Modern audiences need no encouragement.

Conductor
Valery Polyansky

Piano
Tatiana Polyanskaya

Trumpet
Sarah Wilson

Shostakovich
Festival Overture

Shostakovich
Piano Concerto No.1

Tchaikovsky
Marche Slave

Borodin
Symphony No.2

QSO: Mendelssohn - A Midsummer Night's Dream

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sat, 07 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A reprise of the popular event of 2011; savour both the best moments from William Shakespeare's woodland comedy A Midsummer Night's Dream and Felix Mendelssohn's immortal and atmospheric score, complete with soprano and mezzo-soprano, soloists, actors and chorus. The performance includes the famous Overture, the meltingly beautiful Nocturne and the brilliant Wedding March.

Conductor
Benjamin Northey

Director
Tama Matheson

4MBS Classic Arts Production

Soprano
Milica Ilic

Mezzo-Soprano
Georgia Hawes

Choir
Women's chorus, directed by Réka Csernyik

Queensland Ballet - A Classical Celebration

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Wed, 31 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

With the Queensland Symphony Orchestra

Rich with tradition, classical ballet embodies ethereal beauty, disciplined technique and heartfelt emotion. In a joyous celebration of this revered art of dance, Queensland Ballet presents excerpts from some of the most loved works in the classical repertoire, including The Sleeping Beauty, The Nutcracker and Swan Lake. Let the glorious sounds of famous and familiar music envelope you, and escape into a world more beautiful...A Classical Celebration will be a simply unforgettable ballet experience.

Queensland Ballet - Don Quixote

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sat, 19 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

When do dreams become real? Choreographer François Klaus offers a different take on the legendary story by Cervantes in this inventive production.

The ballet, Don Quixote, is being filmed, and the dancer performing the title role feels such an affinity for his character that he plunges himself into reading the original tale. In his dreams, he becomes the famous knight and is transported into the wonderful world of the Don's illusions, where he performs chivalrous deeds, seeks glory in battle, and gives his heart to the beautiful Dulcinea. But the Don's grand exploits are all in his head, and he is blissfully unaware of how much amusement this creates.

Back on the film set, there is a sparkling performance of highlights from the traditional ballet. With stirring music and spirited dance, this Don Quixote is a gentle reminder of the great power of imagination.

Queensland Ballet - International Gala

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Fri, 03 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A highlight of Queensland Ballet's annual season, the International Gala celebrates virtuosic dance. Featuring classical favourites and contemporary masterworks, the varied program is carefully crafted by Artistic Director François Klaus into a thrilling, bravura performance. Sharing the stage with their international guests, the Queensland Ballet dancers show their world-class form in this uplifting homage to the art form of dance.

Queensland Pops Orchestra: A Big Country with Troy Cassar-Daley

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sat, 20 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Queensland Pops Orchestra is proud to present Australia's own music legend Troy Cassar-Daley in concert. He will be sharing a host of great hits and some new songs in a tribute to this great country of ours.

Join us as Troy shares a host of great hits and introduces some new songs to us as he performs with the Pops for this one-off event.

"Top of the Australian Country Music scene"

Queensland Pops Orchestra: Music to Swing By

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sat, 18 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Returning for the third time clarinet and saxophone virtuoso Andy Firth will thrill you with great swing tunes and ballads. He will be supported by the sensational vocal and piano skills of Sarah McKenzie, a jazz star on the rise.

"A genius of the clarinet." Maestro Tommy Tycho MBE

Queensland Pops Orchestra: On Broadway

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sat, 19 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Once again we bring the exceptional talents of husband and wife team Ian Stenlake and Rachael Beck to the concert hall stage. Featuring music from the great musicals this concert will have you laughing, cry, sighing and melting to the glorious sounds of the Queensland Pops Orchestra with two of Australia's finest music theatre talents.

"Beck and Stenlake are as perfectly matched on stage as they are in real life." Adelaide Now

Queensland Theatre Company - Romeo and Juliet

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sat, 21 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

In the heat of a raging feud between their two households, teenagers Romeo and Juliet fall in love at first sight. With a price on Romeo's head, and Juliet suddenly betrothed to another man, the young lovers share a night of forbidden passion before Romeo flees the city. Juliet's desperate pleas to call off the wedding are denied, and she hatches a secret plan for them to be reunited, with devastating consequences.

Relive the romance, danger, beauty and passion of Romeo & Juliet, history's greatest ever love story. We've spared no expense to create the definitive version of this famous script. Directed by Jennifer Flowers and starring Thomas Larkin (Hamlet), Melanie Zanetti (Pygmalion, The Crucible, Grimm Tales) and a huge supporting cast, this is an extravagant theatre event you won't want to miss.

QYO - Don Juan

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sat, 31 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The 2012 Queensland Youth Symphony Concert Series begins with Richard Strauss’ masterpiece, Don Juan. A musical portrait of that great Spanish philanderer, it is one of Strauss' most exciting creations. QYS Principal Cellist Oliver Scott performs the inspiring Cello Concerto by French composer Saint-Saëns, prior to performances with QYS in Germany in July 2012.

A highlight of the concert is the mighty 12th Symphony of Shostakovich, dark, powerful and full of drama.

Program

Richard Strauss - Don Juan

Camille Saint-Saens - Cello Concerto
Soloist: Oliver Scott (Principal Cellist QYS)

Dmitri Shostakovich - Symphony No. 12

Subscriptions for the Queensland Youth Symphony 2012 Concert Series are available now. More Information

QYO - Pines of Rome

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sat, 22 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Opening this concert is a rarely heard collossus by Vaughan Williams, Job, subtitled "A Masque for Dancing", a musical description of the sufferings of Job as described in the Old Testament.

We are indeed fortunate to have Graeme Jennings and Yoko Okayasu as soloists in Mozart's glorious Sinfonia Concertante for Violin and Viola. Graeme, an ex Concertmaster of QYS, is now Senior Lecturer at the Queensland Conservatorium and Yoko is the esteemed Principal Viola of the Queensland Symphony Orchestra.

The concert concludes with the world's favourite tone poem, Pines of Rome by Ottorino Respighi, one of the finest orchestral colourists of all time. Full of the might and grandeur of ancient Rome, the spine tingling finale will be a fitting end to this concert.

Performers
Queensland Youth Symphony
Conductor John Curro AM MBE
Violin Graeme Jennings
Viola Yoko Okayasu

Concert Program
Vaughan Williams - Job: A Masque for Dancing
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart - Sinfonia Concertante
Ottorino Respighi - Pines of Rome

Subscriptions for the Queensland Youth Symphony 2012 Concert Series are available now. More Information

QYO - The Emperor

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sat, 02 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

QYO Concert 2 opens with Carl Vine's exhilarating Celebrare Celeberrime. This wonderfully crafted exercise in orchestral virtuosity is testimony to Vine's standing as one of Australia's finest composers.

Beethoven's 5th Piano Concerto is surely the world's favourite Beethoven concerto. This Emperor will bring to us the formidable talents of Queensland's own rising star Jayson Gillham.

Finally, the not often played but exquisite 7th Symphony of Serge Prokofiev. Wistful, simple and lyrical with a resounding finale, it is a treasure from the Russian repertoire.

Performers
Queensland Youth Symphony
Conductor John Curro AM MBE
Soloist: Jayson Gillham

Concert Program
Carl Vine - Celebrare Celeberrime
Ludwig van Beethoven - Piano Concerto No. 5
7th Symphony of Serge Prokofiev
Soloist: Jayson Gillham

Subscriptions for the Queensland Youth Symphony 2012 Concert Series are available now. More Information

QYO Finale Concert 2012

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sat, 03 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The QYO Finale Concert 2012 showcases the seven orchestras of QYO, more than 480 enthusiastic musicians aged 9 to 25: Queensland Youth Symphony, QYO2 and QYO3, Big Band, Wind Symphony, Wind Ensemble and Junior String Ensemble all join in for this great concert at the QPAC Concert Hall.

Big Band - Conductor Michael Connors
Junior String Ensemble - Conductor Chen Yang
Wind Ensemble - Conductor David Law
Wind Symphony - Conductor Warwick Potter
QYO3 - Conductor Bradley Voltz
QYO2 - Conductor Sergei V Korschmin
Queensland Youth Symphony - Conductor John Curro AM MBE

Subscriptions for the Queensland Youth Symphony 2012 Concert Series are available now. More Information

Romeo & Juliet: Opening Night Gala

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Fri, 23 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Australian Ballet will celebrate its 50th anniversary in style, inviting Opening Night ticket holders to join them for a post-performance party - a chance to dress up, to mingle with the stars, enjoy a glamorous cocktail party and meet some of the people who made the company renowned around the world.

Please note: If you are purchasing tickets to the Opening Night of The Australian Ballet - Romeo and Juliet, you can add this Opening Night Gala to your booking.

Ross Noble - Nonsensory Overload

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Wed, 21 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Ross Noble, Nonsensory Overload

Ross Noble brings a brand new tour, Nonsensory Overload to Australia, following the success of last year's UK 160 date Things tour.

Nonsensory Overload is Noble back fresh from his travels, not to mention his own TV show, doing what he does best; spinning forth hilarious nonsense for your amusement. Now is your chance to see one of the best live comics working internationally today.

Prepare your brain for a Nonsensory Overload!

"Noble turns over as many good ideas in one night as most comics do in a year .. gleeful, free-wheeling silliness." Chortle

"It's impossible to single out highlights when the entire show is a series of you-had-to-be-there moments." Time Out Sydney

"Every night is different and every night is a total joy." Time Out

"The great improviser." The Guardian

Suitable for 15 years and older

Ryan Adams

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

With Special Guest Jason Isbell

Following the celebrated release of his new album Ashes & Fire, The Frontier Touring Company are delighted to announce that Ryan Adams will be bringin his intimate one-man show to the QPAC Concert Hall.

This will be Ryan's first ever solo tour of the region, having toured here previously with backing band The Cardinals; and if the start of his US tour dates this month were any indication, fans are about to be rewarded in kind for their patience and unwavering loyalty.

A highly regarded songwriter and musician amongst his contemporaries, Ryan Adams' latest album Ashes & Fire (available now through Sony) has been widely lauded by fans and critics across the globe.

Ryan Adams' theatre shows offer fans the opportunity to experience Ashes & Fire live in concert for the first time whilst savouring his back catalogue in a solo format.

Ryan's new album Ashes and Fire is now available.

Songs for Nobodies

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Wed, 16 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

This wonderful new play by Australia's renowned playwright Joanna Murray-Smith, was written especially to showcase the extraordinary talents of Australian singer and actress, Bernadette Robinson.

In this critically acclaimed one-woman show, directed by Simon Phillips, Robinson plays five ordinary women and five iconic singers, Judy Garland, Patsy Cline, Billie Holiday, Edith Piaf and Maria Callas. Each "nobody" recounts an intimate tale of how her life was transformed by an encounter with one of the icons.

With phenomenal control of tone and accent, Robinson seamlessly brings to life each "nobody" and each legendary singer. Her voice shifts from the smoky blues of Billie Holiday to the thrilling soprano of Maria Callas, via Garland, Cline and Piaf, with consummate ease.

Southern Cross Soloists - Jack and Vicky

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sun, 18 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

We are delighted to welcome Jack Liebeck and Vicky Sayles as joint violin soloists for this wonderful program. From the famous Bach Concerto for two violins, with a particularly gorgeous adagio, to the romantic virtuosity of the Moszkowski Suite for two violins, to the fiery Argentinean tangos of Astor Piazzolla, this will be a smorgasbord of violin music. We are very excited to have the opportunity to premiere a new work by Australia's leading 'composer of the moment', James Ledger.

Guest violin soloists
Jack Liebeck
Vicky Sayles

Program

Bach	Concerto for 2 violins in D minor BWV 1043
	Cantata BWV 199 - Mein Herze schwimmt in blut
James Ledger	New Work
Moskovski	Suite for 2 violins
Mussorgsky	Nursery Songs
Piazzolla	Selections from Histoire Le Tango

Southern Cross Soloists - Rhapsody

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sun, 29 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

George Gershwin's iconic piece, Rhapsody in Blue, was one of the first mainstream piano concertos to bridge into the world of jazz. Starting with the famous (impossible to play) clarinet glissando, it is a fun, brilliant and virtuosic feat for all.

In this program we will feature two other Rhapsodies: Debussy's Premier Rhapsody for clarinet featuring Southern Cross Soloists member Paul Dean, and Dean's own composition, Rhapsody for Southern Cross Soloists - a world premiere. Paul has insisted on the inclusion of the contraforte (a groundbreaking re-invention of the sometime awkward contrabassoon) in his piece, so we welcome contreforte expert Brock Imison of the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra.

We will be joined by Principal Trumpet of the Queensland Symphony Orchestra, Sarah Wilson, in the Gershwin and in a delightful trio sonata by Vivaldi. Soprano Margaret Schindler will also fascinate with the intriguing songs of Aaron Copland based on the haunting poetry of Emily Dickinson.

Guest trumpet Sarah Wilson
Guest contraforte Brock Imison

Program

Vivaldi	Trio Sonata
Paul Dean	Rhapsody for Southern Cross Soloists
Copland	8 Poems of Emily Dickinson
Debussy	Premier Rhapsody (soloist: Paul Dean)
Gershwin	Rhapsody in Blue
	Songs

Southern Cross Soloists - Serenade d'un jour

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sun, 22 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

We open our 2012 season celebrating Claude Debussy, one of the most pivotal composers to span the 19th and 20th centuries and one whose extraordinary use of tone colour, timbre and harmonies altered the direction of classical music.

From the haunting Syrinx, played by guest flautist Emma Sholl, to arguably his most famous work; Prélude à l'après-midi d'un faune, inspired by the evocative poetry of Stéphane Mallarmé, join us in exploring Debussy's inimitable talent to conjure a sense of veiled imagery through this transcendent and beautiful music.

Also included in the program is Debussy's Sonata for Cello, one of his only complete sonatas for any instrument. The vocal works of Francis Poulenc and Maurice Ravel's famous Mother Goose Suite draw the afternoon of French music to a close.

Guest Flute	Emma Sholl
Guest Harp	Lucy Reeves

Program

Debussy	Syrinx
	Prélude à l'après-midi d'un faune
	Prelude to the afternoon of a faun
	Sonata for Cello
	Féte Galantes
Poulenc	Songs including Les Chemins de l'amour
Ravel	Ma Mère l'Oye
	Mother Goose Suite
Erik Satie	La diva de l'Empire
	Je te veux

St Patrick's Day Celebration with Damien Leith

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sat, 17 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Immerse yourself in the spirit of St Patrick's Day and celebrate with an energetic concert of traditional folk songs, Celtic tunes and rowdy melodies.

Starring singer-songwriter and quintessential Irish-Australian, Damien Leith (Australian Idol winner, Dancing with the Stars finalist) along with his merry band, The Danny Boys, the full resonance of the magnificent Queensland Pops Orchestra and the talent of local Irish dancers, this will be a celebration of the true spirit of the Emerald Isle.

As the final event featured in a week long Brisbane Irish Festival, pay tribute to Irish culture with this program of popular and classic Celtic dance and music.

Performing:
Damien Leith
The Danny Boys
        Eric Aranda - Guitar & Vox
        Steve Marin - Drums
        Cesar Marin - Bass & Vox
        Chris Alford - Keyboards
        Lara Goodridge - Violin
Queensland Pops Orchestra
Conductor: Barrie Gott
The Watkins Academy of Irish Dance

Don't forget to also check out the FREE Irish family day activities from 2pm to 5pm on the Melbourne Street Green then stay after the concert for a true Irish shindig in the Cascade Court.

Major Partner

Stephen K Amos - Laughter is My Agenda

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

After sell-out seasons of THE BEST MEDICINE in 2011, the great Stephen K Amos returns to Brisbane with his new show LAUGHTER IS MY AGENDA. Full of his life observations and hilarious stories, this show will be bursting with Stephen's special brand of melt-in-the-middle comedy.

Amos has charmed and entertained audiences all over the world with his easy, relaxed style, intelligent wit and honest warm-hearted joie de vivre. The last few years have seen Stephen steadily become a household name performing all over Australia and appearing on Thank God You're Here, Spicks & Specks, The Melbourne Comedy Festival Gala, Great Debate and Good News Week.

Back for a strictly limited season at QPAC's Concert Hall, Stephen K Amos really is as good as everyone says.

Summer of the Seventeenth Doll

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Doll is the classic 1950s play that catapulted Australian theatre onto the world stage. Cane-cutters Barney and Roo, arrive for their annual five-month season of fun and frivolity with Carlton barmaids Olive and Nancy. Only Nancy is now married, so will Pearl help to recreate the chemistry of yesteryear?

When men were real men and the women waited patiently; Doll explores the nature of happiness, the pursuit of idealism and the struggle to accept change.

"If you care about theatre, it’s unmissable" - The Age

"A searing look at romantic dreams" - Herald Sun

The Art of Wine featuring Mitchell Wines

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Tue, 06 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Consistently awarded a 5 star rating in James Halliday's Wine Companion and featured in the Financial Times' Top 20 Wines of the World, Mitchell Wines produce some of the finest examples of Clare Valley wines, specialising in Riesling, Shiraz, GSM, Semillon and Cabernet Sauvignon.

QPAC is proud to showcase these delicious wines, including the McNicol Clare Valley Riesling and Shiraz, a wonderful accompaniment to live music, a relaxed atmosphere and great company.

QPAC Executive Chef Anthony Fullerton and Lyrebird Chef Jamie Pearce have designed a menu to perfectly match the wines and ensure an explosion of flavour with each mouthful.

Join us at the Lyrebird Restaurant for this memorable dinner.

Featured Wines

2006 Mitchell McNicol Clare Valley Riesling
2007 Mitchell Clare Valley Semillon
2008 Mitchell Clare Valley Grenache Sangiovese Mourvedre
2002 Mitchell McNicol Clare Valley Shiraz
2010 Mitchell Noble Clare Valley Semillon

The Australian Ballet - Informative Talk

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sat, 24 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Informative Talk
Celebrating Fifty Years of The Australian Ballet

Gold! Gold! Gold! When The Australian Ballet was formed in September 1962, who would have guessed the company would have so many highlights to celebrate in their Golden Anniversary year? Join Colin Peasley and past members of the company as they reminisce about the many memorable moments, people, ballets and tours that are part of their wonderful history.

Don't miss The Australian Ballet's Romeo & Juliet at QPAC

Image: Madeleine Eastoe and Kevin Jackson. Photography by Georges Antoni.

The Australian Ballet - Romeo & Juliet

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Fri, 23 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

with Queensland Symphony Orchestra

A masterpiece from first blush to final devastation.

Graeme Murphy is famous for bringing new life to classic ballets, and now he's tackled the greatest love story ever told: Romeo & Juliet. Traversing time and place, Murphy's ballet follows "a feisty girl and a feisty boy who are willing to take a stand for their love". Young passion smoulders at its core, but Murphy also tackles the consequences of greed and war, and asks what happens to humanity when love dies. This grand story is also grandly designed, with costumes by Australian fashion luminary Akira Isogawa and some of The Australian Ballet's most ambitious sets to date. The result is a masterpiece from first blush to final devastation.

"Murphy is a genius"
PerthNow

"A new full-length ballet by choreographer Graeme Murphy is always a happy occasion"
The Daily Telegraph

“a game-changing ballet that leaves you begging for more”
Daily Telegraph

Photo: Madeleine Eastoe and Kevin Jackson. Photography by Georges Antoni.

For only $15 attend The Australian Ballet's Informative Talk on Saturday 24 March

The Class of 59 - Rock Around Australia Tour

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Happy Days Records by special arrangement with its president "Big Al Delvecchio" bring together this unique concept with new stars and memories from the era that reigns supreme in Rock N Roll history.

Big Al has cooked up a rock and roll feast large enough to whet any appetite assembling the greatest band ever: Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly, Johnny Cash, Bill Haley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Eddie Cochran and The Big Bopper!

Performing a catalogue where their songs are timeless, their hits are endless and their flair is never forgotten. Let the Class of 59 rock you like never before!

Rock N Roll`s immortal journalist Ritchie Yorke described 2011's Class of 59 tour as "an outstanding and exciting new original show that tells the story of when rock `n' roll music was a happy and exuberant experience. With a multi-talented cast, the show delivers a stack of red hot tracks in an appropriate context. Rock `n' Roll comes alive again in this terrific show worthy of an international audience.''

The Hamburg State Opera with The Hamburg Philharmonic Orchestra: Das Rheingold

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Thu, 23 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Richard Wagner's epic Der Ring des Nibelungen (The Ring) is a towering example of 19th century Germany's artistic legacy. Wagner spent twenty-six years on the composition of the Ring, which comprise four separate operas designed to be performed in sequence. Although Das Rheingold is the first opera in the series, it was, in fact the last to be composed.

Conducting the Hamburg State Opera and Philharmonic Orchestra's concert performance of Das Rheingold is celebrated Australian and Hamburg Philharmonic Musical Director Simone Young. The first woman to conduct a complete Ring Cycle, in 1999, Simone has since led complete performances of the cycle in Berlin and most recently Hamburg.

Returning to Brisbane for the Hamburg season, Simone will lead the Hamburg State Opera, of which she is General Manager alongside guest singers, some of whom have performed at Bayreuth, the theatre where the first complete Ring Cycle was seen in 1876.

Join Simone Young, members of The Hamburg State Opera and Philharmonic Orchestra and opening night VIP guests at The Wagner Premiere Experience on Thursday 23 August.

The Imperial Ice Stars - Nutcracker on Ice

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Wed, 20 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The world's premier theatrical ice skating company, The Imperial Ice Stars make their triumphant return with a dazzling new production of The Nutcracker on Ice. Over the last eight years, The Imperial Ice Stars have performed to more than three million people across five continents, with their last four world tours being greeted with standing ovations and five-star reviews.

Now they present their brand new production The Nutcracker on Ice, once again thrilling audiences with their exhilarating displays of breathtaking high-speed leaps and throws, and awe-inspiring acrobatics, coupled with the most graceful and sublime ice dancing. Boasting a 25-strong cast of World, European and National Championship skaters, The Imperial Ice Stars are set to once again astound and mesmerise audiences with their adrenaline-rich, dramatic performance, all within the intimate setting of a frozen theatre stage.

The production features lavish and fantastical new sets from one of Australia's premier scenic designers, Eamon D'Arcy, whose designs for previous Imperial Ice Stars tours have captured the imaginations of audiences around the world. Together with characteristically sumptuous costumes, magical special effects and arguably Tchaikovsky's most famous music, The Nutcracker on Ice promises to be a feast for the senses.

The King's Singers & Queensland Pops Orchestra

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sun, 19 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The world's most acclaimed vocal ensemble makes their long awaited return to Australia.

With a vast repertoire that ranges from Byrd to Michael Bublé, The King's Singers are instantly recognisable for their spot-on intonation, their impeccable vocal blend, their flawless articulation of the text and incisive timing. Described by Gramophone Magazine as 'enchanting the ear from first to last note', The King's Singers are renowned as consummate entertainers; a class-act with a delightfully British wit.

With a prolific discography of over 150 recordings and with over two million pieces of sheet music in circulation, The King's Singers have garnered both awards and significant critical acclaim. Their studio album Simple Gifts was awarded a Grammy in 2009 and they won Best Concert DVD at the MIDEM Classical Awards for their BBC Proms performance at the Royal Albert Hall in 2010.

On their first tour of Australia in nearly three decades, we are delighted to be able to welcome them to the Concert Hall, QPAC to perform a wonderfully varied orchestral program of classical, jazz and pop favourites.

David Hurley & Timothy Wayne-Wright, countertenor; Paul Phoenix, tenor; Philip Lawson & Christopher Gabbitas, baritone; Jonathan Howard, bass

"The superlative vocal sextet" The Times (London)

"Flawlessly realised" The Guardian (UK)

The Neverending Story

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Please note this event is not on sale to the general public until Monday 20 February. Call QPAC Group Sales on 07 3840 7466 to reserve seats for your school group.

Bastian is a dreamer who just can't keep his feet on the ground. When he discovers a dusty old novel called The Neverending Story, he steals it away to the attic of his school where he reads of the mystical land of Fantasia, the home of all imaginary and fantastical creatures.

But Fantasia faces a deadly threat - the Nothing - which is destroying everything that comes in its path. The Childlike Empress calls for a hero, and the boy warrior Atreyu is sent to save Fantasia from the clutches of the Nothing. But as Atreyu journeys across Fantasia, his and Bastian's worlds become intertwined in a mind-blowing adventure that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

Adapted from Michael Ende's best selling book and based on the classic film, The Neverending Story will delight audiences young and old. Take a journey into your imagination with Bastian and Atreyu, Artax his steed, Falkor the flying luckdragon and a host of other fantasy characters in this moving story of adventure, courage and the power of one boy's imagination.

Director Tim O'Connor
Designer Josh McIntosh
Lighting Designer Jason Glenwright
Composer Maitlohn Drew

The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Wed, 29 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

After 25 years of gigs in venues all over the world, from the Village Hall to the Royal Albert Hall, The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain comes to the QPAC Concert Hall for the very first time.

Bringing only their 'bonsai guitars', and the belief that all musical genres are available for reinterpretation (as long as they are played on the uke!), the Ukelele Orchestra does away with drums, piano, backing tracks, pitch shifters and electronic trickery. With a virtuosic collision of raw post-punk performance and toe-tapping oldies - from Tchaikovsky to Nirvana via Otis Redding and Spaghetti Western soundtracks - the Orchestra is routinely met with standing ovations.

Modern exercise in minimal art? Or a rabble-rousing music hall/stadium rock experience? Either way, you'll never think about music in the same way.

"Plucking brilliant." Sunday Times

"The best musical entertainment in the country...worth travelling a thousand miles to hear." The Independent

The Wiggles - Live in Concert

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sat, 05 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Wiggles - Live in Concert tickets go on sale 14 February!

Celebrating the return of the original yellow Wiggle, Greg Page, The Wiggles are hitting the road for a hits loaded show in theatres and venues around the country.

Having played in arenas and larger venues around the world, including their recent Big Tent tour, they are moving their show into theatres and smaller venues to get close up and intimate with their Wiggly fans.

Now celebrating over 20 years performing to children around the globe they are bringing their big hits such as Hot Potato, Fruit Salad, Rock A Bye Your Bear, Toot Toot Chugga Chugga and more in a show jam packed with audience favourites!

After being away from the group for five years due to illness, Greg is returning to the role he knows best. According to Greg this is an extraordinary moment for his history with group. "I'm excited to be back with my friends and to be entertaining our incredible fans again"

Join Jeff, Anthony, Murray and Greg at the QPAC Concert Hall, as well as their Wiggly friends; Dorothy the Dinosaur, Captain Feathersword, Wags the Dog, Henry the Octopus and the world famous Wiggly dancers for this spectacular production!

The Wizard of Oz

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Music & Lyrics by Harold Arlen and E.Y. Harburg
adapted by John Kane from the MGM Motion Picture

Join Dorothy, Scarecrow, Lion, the Tin Man and Toto on a magical trip down the yellow brick road as Harvest Rain Theatre Company presents the beloved classic The Wizard of Oz.

This spectacular new production from the team that brought you Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and Jesus Christ Superstar features all your favourite songs from the Oscar-winning movie score, including the timeless classics Somewhere Over the Rainbow, We're Off to See the Wizard and If I Only had a Heart.

Journey somewhere over the rainbow, click your heels together three times and rediscover the brilliant tale in which dreams really do come true.

This production is a community development project.
By arrangement with Tams Whitmark Music Library, Inc.

UQ School of Music Showcase Concert - Elgar's Cello Concerto

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Sun, 20 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Experience the melancholy and nostalgia of Elgar's Cello Concerto in E minor at QPAC's Concert Hall. Acclaimed UQ cellist Patrick Murphy performs alongside the The University of Queensland Symphony Orchestra. Also featured is Brahms' Symphony No. 2 and Debussy's Prelude a l'apres-midi d'un Faune. Under the baton of conductor Warwick Potter, this concert promises to offer intensely emotional music and expressive performances.

When I Fall In Love: An Evening with Chris Botti

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Tue, 13 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Chris Botti, America's highest selling jazz instrumentalist, is returning to Brisbane with his incredible band and Grammy winning vocalist Lisa Fischer, for a unforgettable evening of fine music. Audiences will be treated to an evening of classic renditions of popular songs and jazz standards such as My Funny Valentine and When I Fall In Love.

To his name, Chris Botti has four No. 1 albums, three gold records and an unprecedented two platinum DVDs. His deft romantic sound, a blend of cool jazz, pop and classical influences, has cemented his position as one of the world's most popular cross-over artists - arranging the works of iconic composers and songwriters as diverse as Schubert, Bacharach, Cole Porter, Mile Davis and Sting. A virtuoso trumpeter and charming raconteur, he has recorded and appeared with the best in music; including Frank Sinatra, Sting, Josh Groban, Michael Buble, Paul Simon, Joni Mitchell, John Mayer, Andrea Bocelli, Joshua Bell, Yo Yo Ma and Aerosmith's own Steven Tyler.

Botti’s band includes Grammy winning vocalist Lisa Fischer (The Rolling Stones, Tina Turner and Roberta Flack), pianist Andrew Ezrin (Joe Jackson, Rickee Lee Jones and the Count Basie Orchestra), violinist Caroline Campbell (Sting, Andrea Bocelli and Julio Iglesias) Brazilain based guitarist Leonardo Amuedo (Herbie Hancock, Dulce Pontes & Billy Hart), bassist Michael Pope (Chick Corea, Jeff "Tain" Watts, Gil Evans Orchestra) and one of the most versatile and explosive drummers on the music scene today, Billy Kilson - described by the New York Times as a ‘volcanic force just barely contained’.

Botti’s live shows are sensational, a journey to the heart of song through the magic of melodies from the soul. Don’t miss him performing live in the Concert Hall, QPAC.

Where The Heart Is

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Fri, 10 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Helpmann Award winning production by one of Australia's leading contemporary dance companies returns to QPAC.

Set against the iconic remnants of an old Queenslander, with lyrics inspired by David Malouf's 12 Edmondstone Street, Where The Heart Is takes the audience on an emotional exploration into the notion of home.

Told through the eyes of a young Queensland man, the heart-warming story unfolds with the six Expression Dance Company dancers portraying different members of the family. The young man reminisces of young love, treasured family moments and also of great sadness and turmoil.

Natalie Weir's first full-length work as Artistic Director for Expressions Dance Company offers a clear and moving story skilfully told through the choreography. Whether a place of residence, refuge or comfort, home is where the heart is...a place that allows you to breath and to dream.

"an engaging and powerful contemporary dance work that confidently bonds the ties between theatre and dance." Australian Stage

Yes, Prime Minister

info@qpac.com.au (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) — Wed, 04 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The hit BBC TV series is now a hilarious new stage play and has become London's biggest comedy sensation in decades.

Enter Jim Hacker's world of hung parliaments, a world of global warming, illegal immigrants and oil rich dictators. Yes, Prime Minister is a hysterical foray into the comedy of politics and intrigue. Set in the present day, in the oak-panelled drawing room of the British Prime Minister's country residence,the embattled PM, Sir Humphrey and Bernard are back - this time facing their greatest challenge yet!

In 2012, the writers of the original TV series Yes, Prime Minister bring the riotous inner workings of Westminster to the QPAC Playhouse for the first time.

Featuring:
Tony Llewellyn-Jones
Mark Owen-Taylor
John Lloyd Fillingham
Caroline Craig