It’s hardly surprising The Arts Centre Gold Coast is known by locals as 'the cultural precinct of the GC.'
An impressive 23 events were announced at the new season launch on 11th November which local media flocked to with eager ears and open diaries. Dancers, actors, musicians, singers and acrobats will all delight and entertain in the coming year. The programme promises to uplift, awaken, challenge and inspire; and with such a heady mix to choose from, the Arts Centre certainly won’t disappoint.
Stand outs from the launch are - as you might expect from a centre which prides itself on being a home to diversity - incredibly wide ranging. Experiences span from emotionally hard-hitting play 'Motherland' to fun, forever-popular 'Mary Poppins'.
Motherland'Motherland', written by Brisbane playwright Katherine Lyall-Watson, is a well-researched historical drama about how big, world-changing events can take a toll on everyday lives. Heartbreaking and thought-provoking. This one may require a stroll around the lake outside afterwards to mull it all over.
The Arts Centre was almost as thrilled to announce the production of much-loved Disney favourite 'Mary Poppins' as those attending were to inquire about tickets. The family-friendly musical arrives in June 2016.
OthelloFor the kids (of all ages), look no further than the 'Family Series'. Heart-warming highlights include the hugely popular 'The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show', as well as 'Snugglepot & Cuddlepie' and too many more to list here.
There really is something for everyone on the programme from opera to symphony orchestra. Belle Shakespeare’s 'Othello' is a definite must-see, while 'The Barber Of Seville' will be performed by Opera Queensland and will celebrate the 200th anniversary of the first performance.
'Dirtsong' will showcase the talents of Black Arm Band, a collective of renowned Indigenous singers, musicians, performers and actors from across the country, who are dedicated to celebrating the best of contemporary Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander music, culture, experience and identity.
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The Queensland Symphony Orchestra (QSO) concert is certainly one for the diary. They will perform Igor Stravinsky’s 'The Firebird' and audiences will also have a chance to talent spot as some of the Gold Coast’s finest young musicians will feature.
For a total change of pace, Sydney Dance Company’s 'CounterMove' will see some of Australia’s finest dancers “enchant, compel and amuse.”
Ground-breaking acrobatics with baroque opera are the fresh combination in 'Il Ritorno' which made a name for itself when it wowed sold-out audiences at Brisbane Festival. There is a reason why it was so popular – this show looks utterly beautiful and sure to make an impact.
CounterMoveAs always, The Arts Centre Gold Coast impresses – and the season hasn’t even started yet! Grab your diary, check out the website and lock in some cultural, thoroughly enjoyable dates. You can save money by purchasing five or more shows in a season package. Anyone who books a season package before 4 January 2016 will go in the draw to win a trip to QT Port Douglas.
The centre set out to establish itself on the cultural map – and it’s succeeded with bells on. Every visit really does open your eyes to a fresh perspective and the tranquillity of its location adds to a lasting, memorable impression. Performing Arts Manager Brad Rush says: “I believe that our local audiences should have the chance to experience a high level of excellence, engagement and diversity that you would find in a capital city.” Mission accomplished!
The Arts Centre Gold Coast's 2016 season begins with 'Trash Test Dummies' 20 January.
