Queensland Performing Arts Centre Tours and Activities

Since the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) opened its doors in 1998 on Brisbane’s South Bank, it has been the home of the arts in Australia’s Sunshine State. The state ballet, symphony orchestra, theatre and ballet companies all have their permanent home in the state-of-the-art complex.The centre’s four main halls regularly play host to the best in national and international artistic talent, offering the people of Queensland the opportunity to experience top-class orchestras, virtuosos and singers, as well as the world’s finest ballet and theatre companies on their own doorstep. Huge names from all areas of the arts have come to perform sell-out shows here, from the Bolshoi Ballet to Cyndi Lauper. Musicals have always proven extremely popular and among the big-name productions staged here have been Les Misérables, Mamma Mia, Cats and Dirty Dancing.The jewel in the centre’s crown is the marvellous Lyric Theatre. On any given week, you’ll find some of the world’s best operas, ballets and musicals being performing to full houses in this 2,000-seater venue. If you’re more into recitals by internationally renowned orchestras or soloists then the QPAC’s Concert Hall will have something for you. However, it’s not only large-scale productions that are catered for: the Cremorne and Playhouse theatres host smaller shows, ranging from comedy and theatre to dance. There are also occasional free jazz concerts log on to the centre’s website or call the box office to find out what’s coming up.No matter what the performance, a visit to QPAC is an experience in itself with beautifully designed venues and foyers adding to the atmosphere. Grab a drink at one of the many bars or enjoy a meal at the gourmet Lyrebird restaurant – it’s best to book a table as it’s always busy on performance nights. The centre is open on any performance day except for major holidays and is within easy walking distance from Brisbane city centre simply cross Victoria Bridge to the Cultural Centre. Parking is expensive so the best way to get there is to jump on a train or bus to South Brisbane or South Bank station.