The Brisbane Festival promises to be even bigger and better in 2025, with a blockbuster lineup.
Leading the charge is the world premiere of Gems, a bold ballet trilogy by L.A. Dance Project and choreographer Benjamin Millepied in collaboration with legendary jeweller Van Cleef & Arpels.
The project is a contemporary re-imagination of the original Jewels ballet which was first performed in 1967 – a result of the initial partnership between founder Claude Arpels and choreographer George Balanchine who was inspired to create the piece after he visited the jewellery store.
Each chapter, Reflections, Hearts & Arrows, and On the Other Side forms a dazzling triptych of distinct works, with each inspired by the brilliance and character of its namesake gem.
The groundbreaking dance event has been 12 years in the making, and celebrates the unity of dance, music, and visual art.
The ballet will be accompanied by Camerata – Queensland’s Chamber Orchestra, and pianist Yanfeng (Tony) Bai from the Colburn School, an internationally renowned LA performing arts school.
From September 4-6 at the Playhouse, QPAC. For tickets, click here.
In celebration of the 100 year anniversary of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel The Great Gatsby, the parties of the 1920s collide with the 2020s in Gatsby at the Green Light.
Brisbane’s beloved Twelfth Night Theatre will be reinvigorated as a jazz age club with a prism of cabaret, variety, and contemporary music.
It promises aerial displays, an electric soundtrack, awe-inspiring vocals, mesmerising choreography, and resplendent costumes.
There are also cabaret tables available, with a curated menu of food and drink.
From September 2-28 at The Twelfth Night Theatre. For tickets, click here.
Baleen Moondjan is a powerful new celebration of First Nations stories by Stephen Page.
Set among giant whale bones floating on the Brisbane River, the story celebrates the First Nations’ bond with whales and tells the tale of the day a baleen whale came close to shore.
It was inspired by a story from Page’s grandmother from the Ngugi/Nunukul/Moondjan people of Stradbroke Island.
From September 18-21 at Queen’s Wharf. For tickets click here.
Brisbane Festival Program:
Festival Opening & Major Spectacles
Afterglow (September 5–27)
Experience a mesmerizing light installation in the City Botanic Gardens, transforming the landscape into a luminous wonderland as twilight falls.
Riverfire (September 6)
Brisbane’s iconic fireworks display lights up the sky with fireworks from bridges, barges, and rooftops, marking the festival’s grand opening.
Skylore – Nieergoo: Spirit of the Whale (September 25-27)
An awe-inspiring drone light show featuring 500 drones, depicting the spirit of the whale in a breathtaking aerial performance.
Theatre & Performance
Amplified: The Exquisite Rock and Rage of Chrissy Amphlett (September 19-21)
A cabaret tribute to the late rock icon Chrissy Amphlett, celebrating her legacy through powerful performances.
The Lovers (September 13 – October 5)
A musical reimagining of Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” blending love, magic, and pop music in a contemporary setting.
BATSHIT (September 16-20)
A darkly comic and intimate theatrical experience, exploring themes of female madness and identity in a wildly theatrical performance.
A Place in the Sultan’s Kitchen (September 16-20)
A play delving into storytelling and cultural heritage, exploring the art of making the perfect one-pot chicken curry.
Music & Dance
Moorooka Block Party (September 13)
A celebration of culture and community with performances from ARIA award winners, bringing the party to the suburbs.
Lord Mayor’s Children’s Program – TheatreDome (September 22)
An improv comedy show for kids, where young drama students join in the hunt for ultimate theatrical glory under the watchful eye of the Great Overseer.
Sarah Blasko (September 25)
A performance celebrating Blasko’s 21st anniversary as an artist, showcasing her unique blend of indie and pop music.
Winston Surfshirt (September 26)
A live performance by the multi-platinum artist, bringing his signature blend of funk, soul, and hip-hop to the stage.
Visual Arts & Exhibitions
Craig & Karl: Public Art Trail (September 5-27)
A city-wide installation featuring colourful inflatable artworks and sculptures by the internationally recognized design duo.
The People’s Dancefloor (August 30 – October 6)
An exhibition celebrating dance culture and community, exploring the joy of movement and expression.
Make a Scene: Fashioning Queer Identity and Club Culture in the ’90s (September 5-27)
An exploration of queer identity through fashion and club culture, highlighting the vibrant scene of the 1990s.
Free & Community Events
Brisbane Serenades (September 5-27)
Free music performances bringing the party to the suburbs, featuring a diverse range of artists and genres.
Pasifika Made (September 7)
A cultural village at Brisbane Powerhouse featuring performances, workshops, and a marketplace, celebrating Pasifika culture.
Lord Mayor’s City Hall Concerts (Every Tuesday until November)
Free lunchtime concerts at Brisbane City Hall, offering a variety of musical performances to enjoy during your lunch break.
For more detailed information on tickets, venues, and specific timings, refer to the official Brisbane Festival website: brisbanefestival.com.au.
