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Your Weekend in the Arts: Creative Line-Up 28 to 30 March 2025

Whether you’re drawn to bold visual art, live jazz, musical theatre or orchestral experiences, Brisbane’s cultural calendar is packed this weekend. From gallery spaces to jazz clubs and mainstage concerts, this guide highlights what’s on for lovers of the arts.

Ongoing & Multi-Day Events

An Evening In Concert With 3rd Year Musical Theatre Students
Venue: Tony Gould Gallery, QPAC, South Brisbane
Enjoy a night of emerging talent as Griffith Conservatorium’s musical theatre students showcase their work in a dynamic and polished live concert.
Event Link

Monochrome
Venue: Mitchell Fine Art, Fortitude Valley
A striking black-and-white exhibition exploring form, contrast, and texture through works from leading Australian artists.
Event Link

Powerhouse: Contemporary Australian Photographers – Michael Reid Beyond
Venue: Stores Studio, Brisbane Powerhouse, New Farm
A curated selection of contemporary photographic works from artists represented by Michael Reid Gallery, presented within the Powerhouse’s distinctive setting.
Event Link

Jacqueline Morland Awards 2025
Venue: The Thomas Dixon Centre, West End
A premier youth ballet competition recognising technical excellence and performance from young dancers across Queensland.
Event Link

Friday, 28 March

Peak Plastique
Venue: Ian Hanger Recital Hall, Queensland Conservatorium, South Brisbane
A genre-blending music theatre performance combining satire, movement, and environmental commentary through sound.
Event Link

Angela Fabian presents Saving All My Love
Venue: JMI Live, Bowen Hills
Powerful vocals and smooth jazz stylings from Angela Fabian in an intimate live setting.
Event Link

Slowhand Sultans
Venue: Brisbane Jazz Club, Kangaroo Point
A night of blues-infused jazz from seasoned performers at Brisbane’s riverside jazz institution.
Event Link

Saturday, 29 March

SCSO: Feel Good Favourites
Venue: Kings Theatre, The Events Centre, Caloundra
A heartwarming orchestral performance of ABC Classic’s most-loved melodies, designed to uplift and inspire.
Event Link

Tokyo Groove Jyoshi
Venue: Brisbane Jazz Club, Kangaroo Point
Japanese funk and soul with high-energy groove, tight musicianship, and jazz flair.
Event Link

Sunday, 30 March

Avatar: The Last Airbender In Concert
Venue: Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, South Bank
Experience the iconic animated series like never before with a full orchestra playing its original score alongside visuals from the show.
Event Link

Miss Mandy and the Boys
Venue: Brisbane Jazz Club, Kangaroo Point
A vibrant cabaret-meets-jazz performance with sass, swing and soulful sounds.
Event Link

From bold visual storytelling to emotive jazz and compelling live performance, this weekend offers something for every kind of art lover. Whether you’re gallery hopping or spending the night at a concert hall, Brisbane’s creative scene is calling.

Kid-Friendly Events in Brisbane This 28 to 30 March 2025

Looking for something fun and family-friendly this weekend? From interactive stage shows to outdoor play, cultural celebrations to community festivals, Brisbane is packed with activities for kids and grown-ups alike. Here’s your go-to guide for making the most of 28 to 30 March with the whole family.

Friday, 28 March

Candyland Putt Putt
Venue: Victoria Park Golf, Herston
Step into a world of sweets and colour with this themed mini golf experience, running daily throughout the school holidays. A great pick for all ages.
Event Link

Making Rainbows Mini-Classes
Venue: Cannon Hill Kmart Plaza Shopping Centre, Cannon Hill
A musical movement program designed for little ones to explore rhythm, coordination, and creativity. Held Friday mornings.
Event Link

Gabby’s Dollhouse Live!
Venue: Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, South Bank
The magical world of Gabby’s Dollhouse comes to life on stage in a vibrant, interactive musical adventure for preschoolers and their families.
Event Link

Saturday, 29 March

Gabby’s Dollhouse Live!
Venue: Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, South Bank
Final day to catch this fun-filled show featuring Gabby and her adorable cat friends.
Event Link

The Brazilian Carnival: Family Day
Venue: Brisbane Showgrounds, Bowen Hills
A family-focused version of the famous carnival featuring kid-friendly activities, performances, food stalls and vibrant Brazilian culture.
Event Link

Oxley Community Festival
Venue: ClubOxley, Oxley
A fun, free community event with live entertainment, food trucks, market stalls and kids’ activities. Perfect for a relaxed family day out.
Event Link

Sunday, 30 March

The Black Blues Brothers
Venue: Kings Theatre, The Events Centre, Caloundra
Acrobatics, comedy, and rhythm collide in this family-friendly tribute to the Blues Brothers, performed by a high-energy African circus troupe.
Event Link

Whether you’re exploring mini golf wonderlands, dancing to carnival beats, or enjoying a kids’ stage show, Brisbane has something lined up for every kind of family adventure this weekend. Take your pick, make a plan, and enjoy the fun from 28 to 30 March.

This Weekend: Best Brisbane Gigs and Events 28 to 30 March 2025

Another huge weekend is here, and Brisbane’s stages, clubs, and venues are overflowing with live music, stand-up comedy, and vibrant cultural events. Whether you’re catching a legendary band, hitting a block party, or laughing your way through the night, here’s your curated list of the best gigs and events happening across the city.

Friday, 28 March

Tomorrows Forecast – Ribbons Single Launch
Venue: The Bearded Lady, West End
A high-energy indie rock night as Tomorrows Forecast launch their latest single, Ribbons. No supports—just one focused, full-throttle set.
Event Link

Guitar Wolf (Japan)
Venue: Crowbar Brisbane, Fortitude Valley
Japanese garage rock legends Guitar Wolf bring their signature noise-fueled energy to the Valley.
Event Link

MODELS and Boom Crash Opera
Venue: The Triffid, Newstead
Two iconic Aussie acts on one stage for a night of nostalgic hits and big choruses.
Event Link

Soundwave Anniversary Party with Resurrection (Live)
Venue: The Brightside, Fortitude Valley
A throwback to the golden age of alt-rock and metal with a tribute to Soundwave Festival.
Event Link

Friday Night Comedy w/ Al Del Bene & Friends
Venue: Good Chat Comedy Club, Petrie Terrace
A night of hard-hitting stand-up featuring Al Del Bene and a killer support lineup.
Event Link

Brooklyn Standard Live Music
Venue: Brooklyn Standard, Brisbane City
Live music into the late hours at this basement bar hotspot in the heart of the city.
Event Link

Saturday, 29 March

80s Mania with Wang Chung
Venue: The Tivoli, Fortitude Valley
Step into a time machine of synth-pop, dance anthems and 80s classics.
Event Link

The Borough Live
Venue: The Bearded Lady, West End
An eclectic night of local live acts at one of Brisbane’s most beloved small venues.
Event Link

Thornhill – BODIES Album Tour
Venue: Crowbar Brisbane, Fortitude Valley
Melodic metalcore with big production and deep emotion.
Event Link

REVOLVE feat MEMPHIS LK (DJ) & 3NDLES5
Venue: The Triffid, Newstead
A dancefloor-focused DJ showcase of electronic beats and future-forward production.
Event Link

OUTRA Presents: AlpaKa MuziK (Label Showcase)
Venue: The Brightside (Outdoors), Fortitude Valley
Underground house and techno curated by Berlin-based label AlpaKa MuziK.
Event Link

Bootleg Rascal – Booty Block Party
Venue: The Brightside, Fortitude Valley
Genre-bending sounds and feel-good party vibes from Bootleg Rascal.
Event Link

Toby Wren – Songs for Dead Sailors | ΩHM Festival
Venue: Powerhouse Theatre, Brisbane Powerhouse, New Farm
A haunting and beautiful performance that blends jazz, composition, and storytelling.
Event Link

Saturday Night Stand-Up w/ Harley Breen & Friends
Venue: Good Chat Comedy Club, Petrie Terrace
Big laughs and punchy comedy from Harley Breen and guests.
Event Link

The Gong Show | Stand-Up At Its Most Brutal (with Dusty Rich)
Venue: Good Chat Comedy Club, Petrie Terrace
Comedians battle it out in a chaotic, crowd-judged night of cutthroat stand-up.
Event Link

The Brazilian Carnival 2025
Venue: Brisbane Showgrounds, Bowen Hills
A colourful and high-energy celebration of Brazilian music, dance, and culture.
Event Link

The Trinity Throwdown 2025
Venue: Brisbane Showgrounds, Bowen Hills
Fitness, adrenaline, and athletic competition come together for this cross-training event.
Event Link

Brooklyn Standard Live Music
Venue: Brooklyn Standard, Brisbane City
Second night of weekend sounds from rotating local bands.
Event Link

Sunday, 30 March

Stone Age a Go-Go Jungle Rumble
Venue: The Bearded Lady, West End
A wild night of psych, punk, and garage rock to wrap the weekend.
Event Link

Marbled Eye (USA) Live
Venue: The Bearded Lady, West End
Post-punk from the Bay Area—one night only.
Event Link

Whether you’re chasing live music in hidden corners of West End, dancing in the Valley, or laughing it out in a packed comedy room, this weekend in Brisbane is stacked with something for everyone. Plan ahead, grab your tickets, and make the most of what the city has to offer.

Oldest Brisbane Pub Victory Hotel Set for Major Transformation

Photo Credit: Development.i / Application Number: A006435805

The iconic Victory Hotel, Brisbane City’s oldest pub, is poised for a multimillion-dollar transformation. A development application has been submitted, outlining plans to breathe new life into this historic venue, which has been a cornerstone of Brisbane’s CBD since 1885.

The ambitious project, spearheaded by Precision Group, aims to reimagine the Victory Hotel as four distinct venues:

A sports bar and beer garden
A rooftop garden bar
A steak house restaurant
A basement ‘speakeasy’ style bar with a gaming room

Architects bureau^proberts and interior designers S.Shyne are at the helm of this redevelopment, working in close collaboration with renowned heritage architect Ruth Woods to ensure the plans honour the site’s rich history.

Liam Proberts, Managing and Creative Director of bureau^proberts, emphasised the importance of preserving the hotel’s legacy while adapting to modern needs. “The Victory has lived through many eras, including the 1980s boom of the beer garden, and has been able to maintain its reputation as one of the most popular places in Brisbane because of its adaptability and prime location in the CBD,” Proberts stated.

The redevelopment plans include innovative features that will showcase the building’s original structure. Dan Liddy, Lead Designer at bureau^proberts, highlighted that patrons will be able to appreciate the hotel’s historic elements while enjoying Brisbane’s outdoor climate from the beer garden or rooftop bar.

Precision Group Leasing Executive Rory O’Brien expressed excitement about the project’s potential to elevate the Victory Hotel into a “world-class destination” that will attract visitors from across Australia and internationally.

The refurbishment is expected to play a crucial role in the ongoing evolution of Brisbane’s CBD, complementing other major developments in the area such as the transformation of Eagle Street Pier, Queen’s Wharf precinct, and Howard Smith Wharves.

Athena Hospitality Group, led by founder Michael Dixon, has secured a long-term lease on the Victory Hotel and is partnering with Precision Group on the redevelopment. Dixon emphasised their commitment to creating an “amazing venue that tells a story over numerous levels” while respecting the hotel’s heritage.

The project also underscores Precision Group’s broader investment in Brisbane’s CBD. The company has recently completed a $45 million refurbishment of the adjacent office tower at 144 Edward Street, which now boasts a 5.5-Star Nabers Rating and has introduced new dining options to the area.

Subject to approvals, work on the Victory Hotel redevelopment is expected to commence in early 2025.

Published 2-October-2024

Brisbane’s CBD: 400+ Facial Scans Per Visit, Expert Reveals

A cyber technology expert has highlighted the extensive surveillance network operating in Brisbane’s Central Business District (CBD), suggesting that an individual’s facial data could be captured over 400 times during a single visit.

Read: Justin Lane Breathes New Life into Iconic Valley Corner

This comprehensive monitoring system includes more than 3,750 cameras operated by Brisbane, along with numerous devices on public transportation.

David Tuffley, a senior lecturer in cyber technology at Griffith University, notes that many residents might be unaware of the prevalence of such surveillance. He points out that while some organisations using facial recognition technology may not publicise this fact, these systems are becoming increasingly common throughout the city.

The recently opened Star Casino in Brisbane exemplifies this trend, having implemented advanced facial recognition technology. The system’s effectiveness was demonstrated when it identified and subsequently banned a woman for five years who had voluntarily registered as a problematic gambler.

According to Tuffley, the council’s camera network operates in conjunction with the Police Department’s Q-Face system. This integration allows for rapid identification of individuals by comparing live footage against a database containing millions of images, including those with outstanding arrest warrants.

Read: Viral Fortitude Valley ‘Succulent Chinese Meal Guy’ Battles Prostate Cancer

On a positive note, the extensive CCTV network in Brisbane has shown potential benefits for public safety and crime prevention. Earlier this year, Brisbane deployed an additional 240 cameras to strengthen its surveillance system, aiming to deter criminal activity and support law enforcement efforts.

This expansion was partly in response to increasing reports of youth crime, with the new cameras providing round-the-clock monitoring in strategically chosen locations.

According to local authorities, the positioning of these devices was determined in collaboration with the Queensland Police Service, focusing on areas deemed high-risk or with high pedestrian traffic.

The enhanced surveillance network may not only aid in crime prevention but also assist in rapid response to incidents and provide valuable evidence for investigations, potentially contributing to a safer urban environment for Brisbane residents and visitors.

Published 30-September-2024

Pod Hotel Surge in Brisbane: Fortitude Valley and CBD Welcome Innovative Budget Accommodation

Fortitude Valley welcomes a new pod hotel offering private sleeping pods from $69 per night, whilst plans for a 250-bed Japanese-style capsule hostel in the CBD signal a growing trend in Brisbane’s budget accommodation sector.

Hotel’s Unique Offering

The recently-opened LyLo Brisbane hotel introduces a fresh concept to the city’s accommodation scene. It combines the affordability of hostels with the privacy and comfort typically associated with more expensive hotels.

The hotel’s standout feature is its specially designed rooms containing four to six private pods. Each pod includes:

– A king single bed
– Privacy screens
– Personal fan
– Mirror
– Charging docks
– Storage space

These pods provide a cosy and private sleeping area at a budget-friendly price point, addressing the needs of travellers who want to save money without sacrificing comfort.

Pod Hotel Fortitude Valley Brisbane CBD — *Photo Credit: Lylo Brisbane/Google Maps*

Amenities and Target Market

LyLo Brisbane caters to a wide range of guests with its mix of facilities:

– Rooftop bar with self-pour beer taps
– Work spaces
– Wellness centre
– Traditional hotel rooms (in addition to pod rooms)

Tim Alpe, LyLo’s managing director, noted that their New Zealand hotels have attracted diverse guests, from young Contiki travellers to elderly European tourists. He highlighted that the appeal of a pod hotel to people who might avoid traditional backpacker dormitories but still want to mingle with fellow travellers.

Other Pod-Style Developments

The pod hotel trend is gaining momentum in Brisbane. Tequila Sunrise Hostels, an international operator specialising in Japanese capsule-style beds, has recently secured a lease for a property in the Brisbane CBD.

Their planned hostel at 428 George St will feature:

– 250 Japanese capsule-style beds
– 1,130 square metres of space
– Opening scheduled for late 2024

This development further demonstrates the growing demand for affordable, pod-style accommodation in Brisbane’s city centre.

Strategic Location

Michael Koukides from First National Commercial, who brokered the deal, highlighted the property’s attractive features:

– Direct access to shopping and entertainment precincts
– Proximity to educational institutions and parks
– Potential for future development

The Brisbane City Council approved the change of use to short-term residential accommodation within three months, reflecting the city’s push for diverse housing options. This quick approval process suggests a supportive stance towards repurposing commercial buildings for accommodation.

Market Trends

The hostel market experienced a downturn during the COVID-19 pandemic, but the emergence of pod-style accommodations indicates a resurgence in budget travel options. Tequila Sunrise Hostels’ expansion into Brisbane, following their existing properties in Adelaide, Gold Coast, and Sydney, demonstrates confidence in the market’s recovery.

This development, along with LyLo Brisbane, signals a growing trend towards innovative, affordable accommodation options in Brisbane’s city centre, catering to a diverse range of travellers and potentially reshaping the local hospitality landscape.

Published 13-July-2024

Morrissey’s Momentous Return to Brisbane: A Celebration of Music and Legacy

Morrissey, one of Britain’s most influential figures in pop music, is set to grace the stage in Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley. This anticipated return marks a significant moment in the artist’s history with the city, reflecting a renewed connection and an opportunity for Brisbane fans to celebrate his illustrious career.

Morrissey’s Brisbane concert is a highlight of his “40 Years of Morrissey” tour. This special event is scheduled for 8 Dec 2023, at The Fortitude Music Hall, located in the vibrant heart of Fortitude Valley.

The evening promises an unforgettable experience, starting at a time that will allow fans to immerse themselves fully in the musical journey Morrissey has curated.

Acclaimed for his role as the lead singer of The Smiths, Morrisey has had a nuanced relationship with Brisbane. Despite past challenges, including instances where he felt unwelcomed due to heckling during performances, Morrissey’s upcoming tour brings a positive new chapter. His return symbolises a bridge mended, showcasing his unwavering commitment to his fans across Australia.

As Morrissey himself stated, “I suppose there are people who think of Australia only in terms of Sydney and Melbourne, but I’m not one of them.”

This sentiment underscores his appreciation for the diverse fan base in Australia, including those in Brisbane.

The “40 Years of Morrissey” tour is a homage to his impactful presence in the music industry. This tour will feature a mix of beloved songs from both his time with The Smiths and his solo albums.

Fans can look forward to a night filled with music that has defined a genre and influenced generations.

Get Tickets

Published 6-Dec-2023

Brisbane Ranks 3rd Australia Rudest City in Survey

Brisbane has emerged as the third rudest city in Australia whilst the quaint Queensland town of Bundaberg ranked at the top, according to a recent survey conducted by the learning platform Preply.

Aimed to uncover which Australian cities were perceived as having the rudest residents, the survey sheds light on why this trend potentially challenges the nation’s reputation for friendliness.

The survey unveiled that whilst the overall average rudeness rating for Australians was 5.31, several towns stood out for their elevated rudeness levels, all of which were located in Queensland.

Topping the list was Bundaberg, with a rudeness score of 5.81, closely followed by Rockhampton at 5.79 and Brisbane City at 5.58.

Experts at Preply speculated that this regional trend in rudeness could be attributed, in part, to the challenging climate conditions that Queensland regularly faces. The state has experienced severe climate extremes, including floods, bushfires, heatwaves, and droughts, which might contribute to heightened stress levels among residents.

Interestingly, Preply’s survey also highlighted that the Sunshine Coast, another Queensland region, claimed the title of the most polite city in Australia, with a courtesy score of 4.58. This incongruity raises questions about the factors influencing residents’ behaviour across different parts of Queensland.

Preply’s survey involved 1,503 participants from 22 major metropolitan areas across Australia. Respondents were asked to rate the rudeness of their respective cities on a scale from one to 10, with 10 indicating the highest level of rudeness.

Additionally, the participants were questioned about the most common types of rude behaviour they encountered. These ranged from being noisy in public spaces and talking on the phone while going through supermarket checkouts to not giving a thank-you wave when another driver allowed them to merge in traffic.

rudest behaviours — *Photo Credit: Preply*

Interestingly, neglecting to offer guests a drink or refreshments at home was considered the least voted rude behaviour, highlighting the significance of hospitality in Australian culture.

Amy Pritchett, the Cultural Director at Preply, explained that the survey was designed to help travellers gauge what to expect when visiting different cities and regions.

Published 25-Aug-2023

Dine-in Igloos are Coming to Fortitude Valley

All throughout July, Brisbane will be able to cosy up and dine in with friends in their own private igloos at the Cielo Rooftop in Fortitude Valley.

From the 1st of July all the way until the 1st of August, pop up igloos will open up in Fortitude Valley — each coming complete with their own set of furniture, fairy lights, and fleece blankets to help bookers cosy themselves in. The best part? Each booking comes with food packages that come with their choice of drinks.

Those interested in reserving an igloo for themselves as well as their friends and loved ones can do so via this link. Igloo can be booked for up to 1.5 hours at a time. Each igloo can house 2 to 6 people; however, food options must be selected. Igloos cannot be reserved without ordering food packages.

Four different food packages will be available for bookings: the Standard Package, the Premium Package, the VIP Package, and the Vegan Package. Each package come with grazing boards with an array of snacks and finger foods, a main course, and either alcoholic beverages or soda.

The Standard Package entails a grazing board which contains prosciutto, mortadella, pecorino cheese, asiago cheese, hummus, olives, focaccia bread, and pickles as well as a main course in the form of a calamari and arancini plate. Drink options include sparkling, red or white wine, or beer per person.

The Premium Package, on the other hand, offers everything the Standard Package does with the addition of dessert in the form of Tiramisu Bomboloni: Italian doughnuts filled with Tiramisu cream and chocolate sauce. Additional drink options also include espresso martinis and aperol spritz.

However, the VIP Package offers everything the Premium Package does in addition beetroot cured salmon bruschetta and an oyster platter. Margaritas will also be available in the drinks list of this exciting package.

Lastly, the Vegetarian Package offers a completely different set of food options entirely in order to accommodate people’s dietary restrictions. The grazing board contains roasted capsicum, Evoo preserved eggplant, fried artichokes, stuffed olives, hummus, focaccia bread and pickles. Instead of a main course, dessert will be offered in the form of a raspberry tortino topped with chocolate mousse and berry coulis. Drink options are the same as those offered by the Standard Package.

Those interested in booking an igloo can do so by visiting this website.

The Winter Pop Up Igloo Dining event will be held at Cielo Rooftop, 209 Brunswick St, Fortitude Valley. Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable but may be resold. Those unable to make it to their booked times and dates will lose their space unless they resell their tickets.

Honouring Graham Pampling, Beloved Busker of the Queen Street Mall

A petition has been called by the Brisbane public to erect a statue of the late-yet-legendary busker Graham Pampling at Queen Street Mall, where he played the saxophone six days a week from 1998 to 2018.

Graham Pampling, who passed in 2019, was a beloved busker who had become something of a community staple in Queen Street. It was hard to ignore the blind busker whose music had become an integral part of everyone’s everyday life, regaling the city with his saxophone.

His labradors, who served as his guide dogs and loyal friends, often accompanied him during these sessions. Pampling became something of a local celebrity given his inspiring story.

Pampling was born with retinitis pigmentosa, a rare genetic condition that slowly causes cells in the retina to die which then leads to blindness.

Throughout his life, he experienced a great many hardships — including the death of his 19-year-old son, who tragically perished in a forklifting accident in 1985.

The marriage between Pampling and his wife of 28 years also broke down, which then led to the busker-to-be to travel to Brisbane with his saxophone, where he stayed for the next three decades. He’d set up in Queen Street Mall and begin busking for every passerby, serenading the public with his beautiful music.

His music wasn’t the only thing that cemented his status as a local icon and inspiration in the city, for Pampling had also volunteered at local schools to teach visually impaired students how to type without using their sight.

Brisbane residents from all around the city have signed a petition, titled Remember Graham Pampling, to immortalise him and celebrate his memory by creating a statue in his honour. As of the 28th of February, 2021, over 6,900 people have signed in hopes of having the statue raised. Those interested in contributing to Graham Pampling’s memory can find and sign the petition here.