Queensland Performing Arts Centre

The Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) is the biggest and most prestigious of the state’s arts venues. The enormous complex contains four main halls that have hosted some of the world’s best-known ballet and theatre companies, orchestras and opera singers. It’s the permanent home of the state ballet, symphony orchestra, opera and theatre companies, all of which regularly perform.

The modern QPAC building opened its doors in 1998, but the history of the theatre that is part of it goes back more than a century. At any one time there’ll be big-name musicals, from acclaimed national and international companies, and classic performances of famous musical pieces. Past productions include The Phantom of the Opera, Cats, Chicago, Mamma Mia!, Dirty Dancing and Les Miserables. Visit the website or stop by the ticket office to see what’s on.

The 2,000-seat Lyric Theatre hosts musicals, operas, ballets and other major productions. The Concert Hall is the venue for orchestras and recitals, while the more intimate Playhouse and Cremorne theatres offer a stage for a mixture of theatre, comedy and dance performances.

Grab a drink at one of the bars or dine at the centre’s in-house Lyrebird restaurant. It’s worth making a reservation to ensure you can have a relaxed meal before the show starts. There’s also a wine bar where you can enjoy tapas plates and wines from around the world. Pre-order drinks or snacks for show intervals at the small bars in the foyers near the performance halls.

The Queensland Performing Arts Centre is in the Cultural Centre on South Bank, just across the Victoria Bridge from the city centre. The complex has its own car park, but spaces are expensive. Alternatively, you can walk to the centre or take public transport, with the South Brisbane and South Bank bus and train stations nearby. QPAC is open daily during performance nights, except major holidays. Note that you have to book tickets for all major performances, but the centre occasionally organizes free jazz sessions and other shows check the website for details.