SPRING 2012 SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER
welcome In the months ahead the program of events include a stellar concert line-up, a classic musical, many opportunities to see our leading local artists perform plus The Hamburg Season, an Australian exclusive at QPAC. The Hamburg Season, outlined in a special feature at the back of this edition, will bring three of the world’s leading companies; The Hamburg Ballet, Hamburg State Opera and Hamburg Philharmonic Orchestra to perform for their first time in Australia, at QPAC. The Hamburg Season is the 2012 presentation in QPAC’s International Series, and includes two concert performances of Wagner’s Ring Cycle opera Das Rheingold Rheingold, a one-off performance of Mahler’s Symphony No. 2 Resurrection, three performances of John Neumeier’s celebrated ballet Nijinsky Nijinsky, and a one week season of The Hamburg Ballet’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. The Hamburg Ballet performances will be presented in association with the 2012 Brisbane Festival. This year’s festival will present a number of performances at QPAC, including S – Circa, Dance Energy, Soap – The Show and we will again open the festival’s popular entertainment venue Wunder Bar Bar. Following a big year for popular musicals, we are coming closer to the end of season for Jersey Boys, a stage performance that recently made it into the twenty longest running Broadway shows in history. It will make way for another Broadway classic, A Chorus Line, starting in November in the Lyric Theatre. In the Concert Hall we will welcome internationally acclaimed artists including Macy Gray, Miloš, and Joe Bonamassa. These musicians are choosing the QPAC Concert Hall to deliver the highest acoustic quality in a more intimate concert setting for audiences in Brisbane. In addition, Queensland Symphony Orchestra will deliver eight performances, Queensland Pops present A Big Country with Troy Cassar-Daley and our company-inresidence, Southern Cross Soloists will take to the spotlight with Jack and Vicky, featuring guest international violinists Jack Liebeck and his wife Vicky Sayles. For a laugh, don’t miss English comedian Bill Bailey among a number of comedy performances in the Concert Hall this spring. In October, we have two new works that showcase leading indigenous Australian artists in dance and drama. Bangarra return to QPAC with their newest contemporary dance work, Terrain, and the Aboriginal Centre for Performing Arts will premiere Up The Ladder under the direction of Wesley Enoch. With this diverse line-up, I welcome you to QPAC in coming months.
JOHN KOTZAS Chief Executive
qpac.com.au | 136 246
MUSICAL
PAGES
2–5
BRISBANE FESTIVAL
PAGES
OPERA
PAGES
18–19
COMEDY
CONCERT
PAGES
25–33
CLASSICAL
6–13
DANCE
PAGES
14–17
PAGE
20–21
DRAMA
PAGES
22–24
PAGES
34–40
TALK
PAGE
41
Bookings | qpac.com.au | 136 246 EXHIBITION
42
FREE EVENTS
43
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
SEE FOLDOUT
BOOKINGS
SEE FOLDOUT
PARKING
SEE FOLDOUT
DAY BY DAY CALENDAR
SEE FOLDOUT
Queensland Performing Arts Centre Cnr Grey & Melbourne Streets South Bank Qld 4101 QPAC is funded by the Queensland Government, through Arts Queensland.
P 07 3840 7444 E enquiries@qpac.com.au THE HAMBURG SERIES
REVERSE SECTION
W qpac.com.au
PICTURED ON COVER SOAP – THE SHOW PHOTOGRAPHER DAVID MOIR
musical
JERSEY BOYS: The Story of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons JERSEY BOYS is the story of Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons: Frankie Valli, Bob Gaudio, Tommy DeVito and Nick Massi. This is the story of how a group of blue collar boys from the wrong side of the tracks became one of the biggest American pop music sensations of all time. They wrote their own songs, invented their own sounds and sold 175 million records worldwide – all before they were thirty. Featuring all their hits including Sherry, Sherry Big Girls Don’t Cry Cry, Walk Like A Man, Bye Bye Baby (Baby Goodbye), Working My Way Back To You, Oh What A Night and Can’t Take My Eyes Off You.
AUDIO DESCRIPTION PERFORMANCE
2
PHOTOGRAPHER JEFF BUSBY
‘Fascinating, hilarious, heartbreaking… full of fantastic performances’ THECOURIER-MAIL
‘The Best Show Under the Sun’ 4BC
‘Wow! Hit After Hit After Hit!’ 4KQ
‘Wonderful! Outstanding! We’ll be back again!’ WALLY LEWIS
PRESENTED BY DODGER THEATRICALS, RODNEY RIGBY AND DAINTY GROUP WHEN WHERE TICKETS
From 13 July Lyric Theatre $65 to $195* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
NOT RECOMMENDED FOR CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 12 DUE TO STRONG ‘AUTHENTIC JERSEY’ LANGUAGE.
qpac.com.au | 136 246
3
musical
A Chorus Line In an empty theatre, on a bare stage, casting for a new Broadway musical is almost complete. For 17 dancers, this audition is the chance of a lifetime. It’s what they’ve worked for – with every drop of sweat, every hour of training, every day of their lives. It’s the one opportunity to do what they’ve always dreamed – to have the chance to dance. This is A Chorus Line, the story of the ones who make it and the ones who don’t. Told through captivating song, riveting drama and stunning choreography, they describe the events that have shaped their lives and their decisions to become dancers. Based on true stories, A Chorus Line revolutionised Broadway for 15 years becoming the longest running musical in Broadway history. The show won nine Tony Awards®, including Best Musical, seven Drama Desk Awards, the New York Critics Circle Award and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama.
4
‘Thrills from the opening number to the glittering finale’ NEW YORK DAILY NEWS
‘Compulsory viewing’ THE AGE
PRESENTED BY TML ENTERPRISES WHEN WHERE TICKETS
16 November to 2 December Lyric Theatre $64.90 to $124.90* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
qpac.com.au | 136 246
5
festival
PHOTOGRAPHER SERGIO PARRA AND CHEMA NOCI
S CIRCA WORLD PREMIERE S is sinuous, sophisticated, sensual and savage. S is a seductive world premiere by internationally acclaimed contemporary circus company Circa. Inspired by the shape, grammatical functions and sounds of the 19th letter of the alphabet, the ensemble will fill the stage with a beautiful mélange of bodies and intoxicating music. S will play with your emotions, reveal the unknown and explore the possibilities of human strength and flexibility.
PRESENTED BY BRISBANE FESTIVAL AND QPAC WHEN WHERE TICKETS
6
8, 11 to 15 September Playhouse $40 to $55* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
Created by Circa’s Artistic Director Yaron Lifschitz with the Circa ensemble, the team who unveiled the global phenomenon Wunderkammer at Brisbane Festival 2010, S is circus that will move you.
‘Astonishing physical mastery.’ THE NEW YORK TIMES
Vienna Boys Choir Join twenty-four of the world’s most beautiful voices in one of the world’s oldest musical traditions.
Mass in Vienna’s Imperial Chapel, as they have done since 1498.
For nearly 500 years the Vienna Boys Choir has been an enduring symbol of Europe, sharing direct associations with some of history’s most prolific musical figures, including Mozart, Haydn, Bruckner and Schubert.
The choir returns to Brisbane in 2012 with an enchanting program, including Pergolisi’s masterwork Stabat Mater (9 Sep performance only) Mozart’s sublime Laudate Dominum, and a specially commissioned new work by Australian composer Elena Kats-Chernin set to the iconic poem, My Country by Dorothea Mackellar.
Today the choir tours internationally, performing over 300 concerts a year in some of the world’s finest concert halls, while also continuing to provide the music for the Sunday
9 SEPTEMBER CONCERT PRESENTED BY BRISBANE FESTIVAL AND ANDREW MCKINNON 12 OCTOBER CONCERT PRESENTED BY ANDREW MCKINNON WHEN WHERE TICKETS
9 September and 12 October Concert Hall $89 to $99* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
qpac.com.au | 136 246
7
festival
Rufus Wainwright The incomparable Rufus Wainwright, one of the music world’s true original contemporary artists, is returning for an Australian full band tour in September 2012, taking in most capital cities following the release of his acclaimed new Mark Ronson-produced album, Out of the Game. Joining Rufus on stage as part of his band include his friends: gifted folk-jazz-soul singer and songwriter Krystle Warren and Teddy Thompson, the rich-voiced and much-loved songwriter, son of the great British musical pairing of Richard and Linda Thompson. Both Krystle and Teddy will be alternating as the opening act for the national run of dates.
For this Australian tour, Rufus looks forward to recreating the studio experience live on stage. Make sure you see Rufus Wainwright on this exciting Australian run of dates – and find out, or rediscover, why Rufus has been affectionately referred to by Elton John as ‘the greatest songwriter on the planet’ and praised by The New York Times for his ‘genuine originality’.
PRESENTED BY CHUGG ENTERTAINMENT, GAYNOR CRAWFORD, ABC RADIO NATIONAL AND BRISBANE FESTIVAL WHEN WHERE TICKETS
8
12 September at 8pm Concert Hall $119* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
Wunder Bar Your favourite Brisbane Festival after-show hangout, Wunder Bar Bar, returns to QPAC’s Cascade Court with its striking décor, air of urban chic and a packed line-up of free live music and entertainment. It’s the place to party late into the night during the Festival.
The stunning set from Wagner’s epic opera, The Ring Cycle, designed by Michael Scott-Mitchell, sets the tone for the after-dark hot spot. Keep an eye on the QPAC website for the full Wunder Bar program details.
You might even catch a glimpse of Festival artists who regularly drop by to let their hair down, or even jump up on stage.
PRESENTED BY QPAC AND BRISBANE FESTIVAL WHEN WHERE
12 to 29 September (Wednesday to Saturday nights) Cascade Court
qpac.com.au | 136 246
FREE EVENT
9
festival
Bluebeard’s Castle QUEENSLAND SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Join Australia’s internationally acclaimed artists, soprano Lisa Gasteen and bass-baritone Daniel Sumegi, as they are led by Queensland Symphony Orchestra chief conductor Johannes Fritzsch in a special one-off concert performance of Béla Bartók’s Bluebeard’s Castle. The two Australian soloists will be accompanied by Queensland Symphony Orchestra in the one-act opera, which tells the dark tale of Bluebeard and his new wife, Judith, whose inquisitiveness leads to her demise. Witness the incredible talent of two international stars who have performed at esteemed theatres around the world, including Covent Garden and the Metropolitan Opera.
‘A remarkable voice that sweeps you along with its energy and fluidity.’ THE AUSTRALIAN ON GASTEEN
‘Sumegi’s vehement vocal power sent chills down the spine of the listeners.’ AUSTRALIAN STAGE ON SUMEGI
SUNG IN ENGLISH
PRESENTED BY BRISBANE FESTIVAL AND GRIFFITH UNIVERSITY IN ASSOCIATION WITH QUEENSLAND SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA WHEN WHERE TICKETS
10
14 September at 8pm Concert Hall $48 to $75* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
PHOTOGRAPHER LUTSKE VEENSTRA
Soap – The Show CIRCLE OF ELEVEN
Soap – The Show turns the stage into a bathroom in a splash-filled fusion of new circus, comedy and cabaret where eight acrobats take to the stage to perform in, on and around bathtubs. Soap – The Show will provide a dazzling, steamy and daring night of entertainment featuring a mop ballet, a gymnastic performance on a bath ledge, an opera, contortion and a love story between two feet.
Performed to a soundtrack that includes the music of Mika, Sia, Tool, Gnarls Barkley and Curtis Mayfield, the show’s brilliant display of physicality and water-soaked antics, directed by Markus Pabst and Maximilian Rambaek, will leave audiences dripping from head to toe in pure enjoyment. After sell-out houses in Edinburgh, London and Berlin, Soap – The Show has been seen by one and a half million people and finally comes to Queensland as part of Brisbane Festival.
PRESENTED BY BRISBANE FESTIVAL WHEN WHERE TICKETS
18 to 22 September Playhouse $32 to $55* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
qpac.com.au | 136 246
11
opera festival
PHOTOGRAPHER CARSTEN BUNNEMAN
Kodo & TaikOz in Concert
Mnozil Brass Unravels Blofeld
Japan’s acclaimed taiko performing arts ensemble Kodo will join forces with Australia’s own high-energy taiko musicians TaikOz for a stunning concert.
The seven insane-cool brass players of Mnozil Brass have accomplished quite something during almost twenty years of hilarious concerts in 30 ½ countries. Their unique blend of sheer virtuosity, humour, staging and overall musical diversity has set them apart from everyone else to the point where they have literally created their own indescribable genre. They perform with an originality and joy that could only displease the most cynical of human beings.
Featuring Riley Lee on the haunting shakuhachi, this will be an epic evening of dynamic drumming and beautiful song. The sound of the great taiko drum is said to resemble a mother’s heartbeat as felt in the womb. You don’t just listen to this music, you see it and feel it too. The concert will feature individual performances by Kodo and TaikOz, culminating in a spectacular finale collaboration with all 17 musicians on stage.
Mnozil Brass unravels Blofeld........but why in heaven’s name Blofeld? Mnozil Brass will unravel it. Right with us. A celebration!
PRESENTED BY BRISBANE FESTIVAL AND TAIKOZ WHEN WHERE TICKETS
12
15 September at 8pm Concert Hall $45 to $90* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
PRESENTED BY BRISBANE FESTIVAL AND ANDREW KAY & ASSOCIATES WHEN WHERE TICKETS
27 September at 8pm Concert Hall $69.90 to $89.90* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
PHOTOGRAPHER CHRISTIAN AAS
Dance Energy DANCENORTH, EXPRESSIONS DANCE COMPANY AND QUEENSLAND BALLET Dance Energy will transcend the barriers of classical and contemporary dance and shine a light on the very best Queensland artists. Commissioned by Brisbane Festival, this world premiere performance is the first ever collaboration between Dancenorth, Expressions Dance Company (EDC) and Queensland Ballet. Dancenorth’s Raewyn Hill, EDC’s Natalie Weir and Queensland Ballet’s Gareth Belling will each create
a piece to music composed by Australia’s greatest living composer, Peter Sculthorpe. To bring the work to a stunning conclusion, London-based New Zealand choreographer Cameron McMillan will create a crescendo of movement using dancers from all three companies. Dance Energy will be a rare moment in dance and a Festival highlight not to be missed.
PRESENTED BY BRISBANE FESTIVAL AND QUT WHEN WHERE TICKETS
27 to 30 September Playhouse $41.60 to $65* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
qpac.com.au | 136 246
13
dance
Terrain The timeless wonder and spiritual resonance of Lake Eyre Internationally acclaimed Bangarra Dance Theatre presents a fusion of contemporary dance and storytelling commissioned by artistic director Stephen Page. Described as a hymn to country, TERRAIN transports us to Lake Eyre, the place of Australia’s inland sea: one of the few untouched natural waterways in the world. Bangarra artists explore the innate connection of Indigenous people to country and how the landscape is a second skin. The award-winning Aboriginal artists: choreographer Frances Rings, composer David Page and set designer Jacob Nash create a powerful and evocative production inspired by the timeless beauty of Lake Eyre.
Beyond the ancient vastness we travel through drought and deluge, we witness the ephemeral transformation of place where nature delivers in abundance, promises all but guarantees nothing.
‘A beautiful dance theatre exploration of spirituality, culture and the body’ THE AGE
PRESENTED BY QPAC AND BANGARRA DANCE THEATRE IN ASSOCIATION WITH MUSGRAVE PARK CULTURAL CENTRE
TICKETS
3 to 7 October Playhouse $45 to $65*
14
*TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
WHEN WHERE
DANCER MENG NINGNING PHOTOGRAPHER KEN SPARROW
A Classical Celebration WITH THE QUEENSLAND SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Rich with tradition, classical ballet embodies ethereal beauty, disciplined technique and heartfelt emotion. In a joyous celebration of this revered art of dance, Queensland Ballet presents excerpts from some of the most loved works in the classical and romantic repertoire, including
The Nutcracker Nutcracker, Swan Lake and La Sylphide. Let the glorious sounds of famous and familiar music envelop you, and escape into a world more beautiful... A Classical Celebration will be a simply unforgettable ballet experience.
PRESENTED BY QUEENSLAND BALLET WHEN WHERE TICKETS
31 October to 2 November Lyric Theatre $55 to $84* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
qpac.com.au | 136 246
15
dance
The Rhythms of Ireland
The Imperial Russian Ballet Company SLEEPING BEAUTY
Following the highly-successful and critically acclaimed sell-out Australian and World tour, Ireland’s most celebrated and elite company of dancers, The Rhythms of Ireland Ireland, return to Australia with their awe-inspiring and innovative all new production.
Following their 2011 sell out performance of A Festival of Russian Ballet Ballet, The Imperial Russian Ballet Company return to Australia with their presentation of the classic masterpiece Sleeping Beauty Beauty.
The incomparable quality and pure unadulterated spectacle of their work perfectly blends the ancient traditions of Irish dance and music with the innovative and flawlessly choreographed production values of contemporary Irish excellence.
Sleeping Beauty follows the story of Princess Aurora. The bad fairy Carabosse casts a spell on the Princess that means she will die from a needle prick at the age of sixteen. One hundred years later, when a handsome prince stumbles upon the Sleeping Beauty, she is awoken from her sleep and witchcraft is defeated.
Experience a spectacular evening of traditional Irish dance, music and song enhanced by stunning costumes, lighting and sound. This is indeed, The Rhythms Of Ireland.
The Imperial Russian Ballet Company combines the unity and integrity of the great Russian ballet schools, where traditions are passed on from one generation to another.
PRESENTED BY RETFAR ENTERTAINMENT
PRESENTED BY THE IMPERIAL RUSSIAN BALLET COMPANY
WHEN WHERE TICKETS
16
9 October at 8pm Concert Hall $69.90 to $89.90* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
WHEN WHERE TICKETS
22 to 24 October Concert Hall $49 to $109* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
CSTD Dance Extravaganza
Ashgrove Dance Studio
Dance Extravaganza 2012 features a cast of 600 talented dance students from South East and regional Queensland.
Ashgrove Dance will again present their annual production featuring music, dance and storytelling to delight all ages.
Students will participate in a wide range of dance genres with amazing costumes, fabulous choreography and great flair.
This will be the 39th production by the Studio and big plans are underway for fantastic 40th year celebrations in 2013.
The dancers range in age from five years to late teens, with many dancers about to embark on professional careers both in Australia and overseas. The Commonwealth Society of Teachers of Dancing is held in high regard in dance circles throughout the world.... creating dance for the 21st century.
This annual presentation will comprise a varied program of classical ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, and contemporary dance. A fast moving and entertaining show with 200 dancers ranging in age from four to seventy four.
Enjoy a great night of dance with amazing energy, colourful costumes and highly motivated youth.
The program will feature male and female senior dancers in JOUST A BIT MEDIEVAL, as well as junior students in AROUND THE WORLD IN DANCE and after interval there will be plenty of glamour, glitz and great dancing in the spectacular second half, SOMETHING SPECTACULAR!
PRESENTED BY THE COMMONWEALTH SOCIETY OF TEACHERS OF DANCING
PRESENTED BY ASHGROVE DANCE STUDIO
WHEN WHERE TICKETS
26 October at 7pm Concert Hall $79.90 to $98.90* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
WHEN WHERE TICKETS
15 to 17 November Playhouse $38 to $48* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
17
opera
18
Carmen FREE SHE WAS BORN, AND FREE SHE WILL DIE Bizet’s iconic tale of passion unfolds when a fight breaks out at a cigarette factory in a Seville square, and Carmen – a gypsy – is arrested by the soldier Don José. Carmen quickly seduces him but like many before him, Don José’s attempts to tame the freedom-loving beauty are futile. His obsession with her turns to murderous rage when she leaves him for the famous toreador, Escamillo. The soul stirring music of Carmen is some of the most familiar in all of opera. From Carmen’s rich and provocative Habanera and seductive Seguidilla to the rousing Toreador Song, the score is full of fiery Spanish rhythms and popular melodies. Francesca Zambello’s powerful production, originally created for the Royal Opera House Covent Garden, makes its Queensland debut and superbly captures the essence of a woman who chooses how she will live, love and die. In the title role of Carmen – the ultimate femme fatale – is the stunning American mezzo-soprano Kirstin Chávez, reprising a role she has performed to great acclaim around the world. Making his Opera Queensland debut, French conductor Emmanuel Joel-Hornak, leads an exciting cast of international and Australian artists including Ukrainian tenor Konstantin Andreyev as Don José, Australian-based Argentinian baritone José Carbó as Escamillo and soprano Lecia Robertson as Micaëla, the mighty Opera Queensland Chorus and Queensland Symphony Orchestra. Carmen is one of the greatest operas of all time – and a feast for all the senses.
SUNG IN FRENCH WITH PROJECTED ENGLISH TRANSLATIONS.
WHEN WHERE TICKETS
26 October to 10 November Lyric Theatre $54.25 to $166.25* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
qpac.com.au | 136 246
19
comedy
Ahn Do
Bill Bailey
THE HAPPIEST REFUGEE LIVE!!
QUALMPEDDLER
Anh Do’s bestselling book The Happiest Refugee has made readers laugh and cry, and was described by Russell Crowe as ‘the most surprising and inspiring read I have had in years’. Anh’s new stage show takes it a step further, combining stand-up comedy with real life stories, photos and filmed pieces to retell his amazing story.
Bill Bailey had doubts about the modern world, but these have now grown into qualms. He will be channeling these feelings of unease and apprehension, with the help of religious dubstep, his folk bouzouki, horntallica, and perhaps a dub version of Downton Abbey.
When one of Australia’s most talented comedians delves deep into his own life’s joys and sorrows, the result is an unforgettable night at the theatre that leaves an audience uplifted and quite simply experiencing... happiness.
He looks at the consequences of lies, the unending search for the Higgs boson and the hiding skills of dentists. Bill tries to confront his cluster-qualm of living in a time of spectacular ignorance, nuclear worry and rare planetary alignment that may be part of the Mayan end of days prophecy. Come savour this broth of anxiety with Bill Bailey – Qualmpeddler Qualmpeddler.
‘He is, quite simply, brilliant’ THE SCOTSMAN
PRESENTED BY A-LIST ENTERTAINMENT WHEN WHERE TICKETS
20
5 September at 8pm Concert Hall $57.70 to $62.70* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
PRESENTED BY ADRIAN BOHM WHEN WHERE TICKETS
21 to 24 September at 8pm Concert Hall $81.90 to $92.10* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
The Laughing Samoans
Potted Potter
FUNNY CHOKERS
THE UNAUTHORIZED HARRY EXPERIENCE – A PARODY BY DAN AND JEFF
Funny Chokers is the latest offering from one of New Zealand’s most successful live comedy acts. The Laughing Samoans comedy duo of Eteuati Ete and Tofiga Fepulea’i has been touring Australasia, the Pacific islands, the United States and the UK for the last eight years performing their unique brand of ethnic comedy. Their previous hits include A Small Samoan Wedding, Choka Block Block, Off Work and Prettyfull Woman. This is comedy the whole family can enjoy. Check them out on YouTube and book early to avoid disappointment.
Playing to sold out houses all over the world, POTTED POTTER takes on the ultimate challenge of condensing all seven Harry Potter books (and a real life game of Quidditch) into seventy hilarious minutes. This fantastically funny show features all your favourite characters, an appearance from a fire-breathing dragon, endless costumes, brilliant songs, ridiculous props and a generous helping of Hogwarts magic!
PRESENTED BY THE LAUGHING SAMOANS
PRESENTED BY LUNCHBOX THEATRICAL PRODUCTIONS
WHEN WHERE TICKETS
6 October at 8pm Concert Hall $28.80 to $49.70* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
Created by double Olivier Award Best Entertainment nominees Daniel Clarkson and Jefferson Turner, the show is a must-see for Potter addicts. Even if you don’t know the difference between a Horcrux and a Hufflepuff, POTTED POTTER will make you roar with laughter. This brilliant family entertainment is perfect for ages six to Dumbledore (who is very old indeed).
WHEN WHERE TICKETS
6 to 11 November Playhouse $60 to $80* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
21
drama
Managing Carmen Brent Lyall has it all. At 23 years old he has a beautiful girlfriend, two Brownlow medals, and he’s already the captain of one of the most powerful football clubs in the land. There’s just one small hitch. Occasionally he enjoys dressing up in women’s clothes. Uncovering his client’s penchant for cross dressing, Brent’s wily agent Rohan Swift swings into damage control to prevent the devastating truth from coming out. The media already has a whiff of the story and the humiliation of a public outing would spell the end of the athlete’s career, not to mention the mountains of cash they’re both making through endorsements.
PRESENTED BY QUEENSLAND THEATRE COMPANY
TICKETS
13 October to 4 November Playhouse $42 to $79*
22
*TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
WHEN WHERE
Inevitably, the AFL player’s addiction is irrepressible and his alter ego must be set free. With more than 40 years in the business and a string of box office successes, David Williamson (The Club, Don’s Party Party, Let the Sunshine Sunshine) has earned a reputation as our country’s most popular and successful playwright. Managing Carmen is Williamson’s latest laugh-out-loud instalment, holding a mirror up to the personalities we’ve all come to love and hate – the whatever-it-takes businessman, the bimbo trophy wife, and of course, the flawed footy hero.
1984
Kelly
Big Brother is back.
Ned Kelly sits in gaol the night before his execution. His brother Dan, who Ned believes died at the siege of Glenrowan, visits disguised as a priest. He’s seeking Ned’s blessing and forgiveness before moving to start a new life. But after everything they’ve been through, a blessing is not an easy ask.
Oceania; a Nation where cameras watch every move and Thought Police roam the streets. Winston is an editor at the Ministry of Truth, rewriting history to align the past with a radical political agenda led by Big Brother. By night, Winston pursues a forbidden affair with the mysterious Julia attempting to maintain some control over his otherwise totally controlled life. When Winston and Julia are discovered, they are violently separated, detained and prepared for conversion. From the team that brought you Animal Farm, this new stage adaptation brings George Orwell’s novel screaming into the present. Strap yourself in for this terrifying theatrical event featuring some of Queensland’s most acclaimed artists against a dynamic digital backdrop.
PRESENTED BY SHAKE & STIR THEATRE CO AND QPAC WHEN WHERE TICKETS
16 August to 1 September Cremorne Theatre $42 to $46* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
Now, at the end, they confront each other, striving to understand their past. Dramatically entwining fact, theory and myth, Kelly is the latest achievement of Brisbane-based playwright Matthew Ryan (boy girl wall, Sacré Bleu Bleu). It is masterfully balanced with light and shade, with banter that resonates with a crass but irresistible brand of Australian humour. Kelly portrays the infamous cult heroes in a totally new light.
PRESENTED BY QUEENSLAND THEATRE COMPANY WHEN WHERE TICKETS
15 September to 20 October Cremorne Theatre $37 to $65* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
23
drama
PHOTOGRAPHER SEAN YOUNG
Up The Ladder WRITTEN BY ROGER BENNETT
DIRECTED BY WESLEY ENOCH
In 2011 acclaimed actor and director Leah Purcell showcased the talented students of the Aboriginal Centre for the Performing Arts (ACPA) in a sell-out season of Jane Harrison’s powerful and moving play Stolen.
1940s and 50s sideshows as we follow an Aboriginal man’s journey from the humble rough and tumble of post-war Australian boxing tents to a high profile professional career as a champion boxer.
This year, under the guidance of Queensland Theatre Company Artistic Director, renowned playwright and director Wesley Enoch, the ACPA students bring their own dynamic style of music, dance and acting to Roger Bennett’s poignant play Up the Ladder.
This exciting new production of Up the Ladder will showcase the next generation of Torres Strait Islander performing artists, share potent memories of Australia’s post-war history and provide a joyous message of redemption and reconciliation.
An inspiring story of triumph over adversity, Up the Ladder evokes the carnival atmosphere, humour and energy of
FEATURING STUDENTS FROM THE ABORIGINAL CENTRE FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS
PRESENTED BY THE ABORIGINAL CENTRE FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS AND QPAC
TICKETS
24 to 27 October Cremorne Theatre $18 to $30*
24
*TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
WHEN WHERE
concert
Macy Gray Macy Gray, the Grammy winning soul and R&B icon and utterly unique singer-songwriter, performs live in Brisbane this September following the release of her latest album, Covered. Macy has forged an uncompromising musical career and captivated fans since the release of her stunning debut album On How Life Is in 2000. The classic single I Try and the whole album were massive global hits. They kicked off a career ride that includes multiple Grammy and MTV awards, over 25 million units sold and a thriving acting career.
And now with the release of Covered – a collection of handpicked recordings reinterpreted in her own unique style, Macy showcases the artistic integrity and innovation that has won her fans across the world, creating music that leaps genre barriers from experimental soul to alternative rock, from retro-disco to hip-hop. Macy Gray will be supported by singer-songwriter Emma Dean. Fresh from the Adelaide Fringe Festival, this mistress of the velvet curtain performs eccentric, vibrant piano-driven pop that will enthrall audiences.
PRESENTED BY QPAC AND DAVID M HAWKINS WHEN WHERE TICKETS
20 September at 8pm Concert Hall $99* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
qpac.com.au | 136 246
25
concert
Michael Jackson
Richard Clapton
HIStory II
The thrilling on-stage spectacular, HIStory II tells the story of the greatest pop icon in history, Michael Jackson. This musical biography takes audiences back to the Jackson 5 era, then continues on an inspiring journey to the current decade. HIStory II delivers hit after hit with songs performed live by Kenny Wizz, the world’s number one Michael Jackson impersonator. Together with a band of exceptional musicians, fully choreographed dance ensemble, authentic costumes and world-class sound and lighting, HIStory II is the recreation of what fans want but can never again see – a Michael Jackson concert experience.
PRESENTED BY ROCKCITY & SHOWTIME WHEN WHERE TICKETS
26
1 September at 8pm Concert Hall $79 to $89* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
In an acclaimed career glittering with highlights, music icon Richard Clapton returns to Queensland to recreate his landmark Goodbye Tiger album with a very special concert at the QPAC Concert Hall. The platinum selling Number One album is often cited as one of Australia’s greatest albums. Produced by Richard Batchens and released on iconic Festival Records, it featured the tracks Down in the Lucky Country Wild Child Country, Child, Goodbye Tiger Tiger, I Can Talk To You, Deep Water Out On The Edge Again, Hiding From the Light Water, Light, Wintertime in Amsterdam.
PRESENTED BY EMPIRE TOURING WHEN WHERE TICKETS
28 September at 8pm Concert Hall $67.10* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
Joe Bonamassa
The Legendary Count Basie Orchestra
Award-winning blues rock star, guitar hero and singersongwriter Joe Bonamassa and his ace touring band will perform a one-night-only show in support of his brand new solo album Driving Towards The Daylight Daylight.
From Billie Holiday to Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra to Nat King Cole, Sarah Vaughan to Ella Fitzgerald, the Count Basie Orchestra has provided the supremely distinctive sound and swing behind some of the greatest singers of the modern age.
Bonamassa tours the world regularly, and his ability to connect with live audiences is epic. He generally has no opening act, and he never leaves the stage until the last encore two hours later. Bonamassa has been lauded as one of the world’s greatest guitarists and he is fast evolving into a full-blown truly charismatic and mesmerizing blues-rock star; as quoted in Classic Rock Magazine, ‘They’re calling him the future of blues, but they’re wrong – Joe Bonamassa is the present; so fresh and of his time that he almost defines it.’
Current members include a solid core of musicians hired by Basie, including saxophonist John Williams and trombonist Clarence Banks, as well as former members of Stan Kenton, Benny Goodman and Lionel Hampton’s ensembles. Simply put, the Count Basie Orchestra is the real deal, a who’s who of swing spanning generations to maintain the flame of one of the world’s best-loved sounds. For Australian audiences, this is a once-in-a-lifetime event, a truly elite jazz ensemble staged in some of our most prestigious venues. Don’t miss this historic concert.
PRESENTED BY J&R ADVENTURES WHEN WHERE TICKETS
3 October at 8pm Concert Hall $96.40 to $106.40* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
PRESENTED BY SPIRITWORKS AND JEFF LEWIS WHEN WHERE TICKETS
11 October at 8pm Concert Hall $109.90 to $149.90* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
27
concert
Jon English – Rock Revolution!
Paul Kelly – Stories of Me
Jon English has been working tirelessly to unearth, refine and rediscover a whole lot more from the great rock’n’roll archives to bring you…Rock Revolution!
Get an in-depth look into the life and career of one of Australia’s most gifted and beloved singer-songwriters in the film Paul Kelly – Stories Of Me, screening in QPAC’s Concert Hall followed by a very special appearance by Paul Kelly and the film’s director, Ian Darling
Experience more of your favourite classics, remember the songs you thought you’d forgotten, and breathe a sigh of relief when you hear the one you believed was gone forever. You won’t want to miss this great evening of 60s and 70s rock’n’roll, so get out your diary, phone your friends and get ready for a rollicking good time…fabulous music, lots of laughter, and multi-talented musicians all wrapped up into one unforgettable theatrical concert!
PRESENTED BY THE HARBOUR AGENCY WHEN WHERE TICKETS
28
13 October at 8pm Concert Hall $74.90 to $79.90* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
For almost 40 years, in over 350 songs, Paul Kelly has been mapping out the Australian landscape and its people. For the first time in a feature length film, the man behind the music is revealed, as Kelly speaks candidly about the people who have helped shape his life and music. Featuring rare archival footage, never-before-seen live performances, interviews with Kelly’s family members, former and current band members, music contemporaries and many more, don’t miss this intimate look into the life of a true Australian icon.
PRESENTED BY MADMAN WHEN WHERE TICKETS
18 October at 7.30pm Concert Hall $43.85* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
Queensland Pops Orchestra A BIG COUNTRY If you take the time to study Troy Cassar-Daley, a number of contradictions will surface. He’s the kid from Grafton in northern NSW who did it tough with his mum, Irene, after his parents separated when he was an infant. Yet he writes and sings more poignantly about family life than anyone in the business. He was shy and sensitive as a teenager. Yet today he can hold in thrall an audience of thousands.
He’s been plying his trade for a lifetime and has earned the right to be jaded. Yet he maintains an undiminished enthusiasm for his craft, and each album – you can sense it, feel it coming off the music – is a new adventure. The Queensland Pops Orchestra is delighted to feature Troy and his wife Laurel Edwards. This concert, the third in this year’s series will be a new venture for both Troy and the orchestra and will feature some of his great songs as well as material from the great singers of the past such as Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra. Do not miss this wonderful event.
PRESENTED BY QUEENSLAND POPS ORCHESTRA WHEN WHERE TICKETS
20 October at 2pm and 8pm Concert Hall $64 to $79* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
qpac.com.au | 136 246
29
concert
Billy Bragg
Elaine Paige
This October, the passionate and charismatic Billy Bragg, returns to our shores to support the release of Mermaid Ave – The Complete Sessions and mark the centenary of US folk singer Woody Guthrie’s birth. His shows will feature two sets, the first a tribute to Woody and a second set of Billy Bragg classics with the songs that have made him so famous. This special show is not to be missed!
The First Lady of Musical Theatre returns to Brisbane for one intimate night only performing songs from her latest album and from her numerous West End and Broadway productions.
In 1992, Woody Guthrie’s daughter, Nora, approached Billy with the idea that he put new music to lyrics that her father had written in Brooklyn in the 1940s. Billy invited Wilco to join him on the project and the resulting album Mermaid Avenue came out to great acclaim in 1998. It was included in Rolling Stones Top 100 albums of the 90s and nominated for a Grammy award. The second volume was released in 2000, “…as on the first, it’s the Bragg-led numbers that truly catch fire, feeling every bit as warm, funny, and vibrant as Guthrie’s best work.” – All Music. PRESENTED BY VIV LEES AND RADIO NATIONAL WHEN WHERE TICKETS
30
25 October at 8pm Concert Hall $86.30* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
Elaine recreates her most memorable roles on stage in a special 2 hour performance, including Grizabella in Cats, Eva Peron in Evita, Piaf and so many more. Performing her multi-platinum, gold record hits I Know Him So Well and Memory this will be a night you’ll remember forever. In 2011, Elaine Paige returned to the stage to play Carlotta in the Washington Kennedy Center production of Stephen Sondheim’s Tony Award winning musical Follies.
PRESENTED BY LENNARD PROMOTIONS WHEN WHERE TICKETS
29 October at 8pm Concert Hall $79.90 to $129.90* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
The Glenn Miller Orchestra
Todd McKenney
A SENTIMENTAL JOURNEY DOWN MEMORY LANE
SONGS AND STORIES OF PETER ALLEN
Celebrate the unforgettable music of the 1940s, when direct from the USA, THE GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA and THE MOONLIGHT SERENADE SISTERS perform those timeless big band hits from the Golden Era of Swing. Join us on a sentimental journey down memory lane with songs made famous by The Andrews Sisters, Vera Lyn and Frank Sinatra and some of the greatest swing dancing by the exciting BROADWAY SWING DANCERS.
One of Australia’s most versatile and critically acclaimed performers, Todd McKenney returns LIVE in CONCERT with Songs & Stories of Peter Allen.
Remember...Chattanooga Choo Choo, In the Mood Mood, Moonlight Serenade, String of Pearls, The White Cliffs of Dover and many more memorable songs as 25 world class musicans, singers and dancers swing on the Concert Hall stage.
PRESENTED BY ATA ALLSTAR ARTISTS BY ARRANGEMENT WITH GLENN MILLER PRODUCTIONS INC NEW YORK WHEN WHERE TICKETS
4 November at 2pm Concert Hall $79.90 to $98.90* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
A two hour extravaganza featuring an eight piece band and dancers, live on stage, it’s a brand new show including the classics, some new songs and untold stories with a different take on Allen’s life and career. McKenney performs all the hits while also highlighting songs that Allen wrote for other artists or had an influence on his life and career, such as Liza Minnelli, Olivia Newton-John, Carol Bayer Sager and Melissa Manchester.
PRESENTED BY THE HARBOUR AGENCY WHEN WHERE TICKETS
10 November at 8pm Concert Hall $70 to $150* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
31
concert
Miloš
Class of ‘69
Experience a new elegance, intimacy and energy as guitar virtuoso, Miloš Karadaglic, comes to Brisbane on his highly anticipated Debut Australian Tour.
From the producers of the smash hit concert tour The Class of ‘59 and Buddy: The Concert Concert, comes THE CLASS OF ‘69! During the early years of Australian Rock & Roll, the scene was almost entirely male-dominated. As the beat softened and the frantic momentum diminished during the early 60s, the first female solo singers began to emerge. From the original Class of ‘69, Patricia ‘Little Pattie’ Amphlett introduces the humbling beginnings of Australian soul music performing her string of hits.
With critically acclaimed performances including a sell out recital at Carnegie Hall and an upcoming solo recital at the Royal Albert Hall, two Gramophone Awards and two albums debuting at number 1 in the US, UK and Australia, Miloš has quickly emerged as the champion for a new generation of classical virtuosi. From the war-torn Montenegro of his youth to London’s Royal Academy of Music, this young talent is already hailed by fans and critics for his brilliant technique and transcendent musicality, bringing a new light and emotion to his humble instrument
PRESENTED BY ANDREW MCKINNON WHEN WHERE TICKETS
32
22 November at 8pm Concert Hall $65 to $75* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
The second set brings together four of the world’s most recognizable voices – Diana Ross, Lesley Gore, Petula Clark and Dusty Springfield performed by Australian songstresses Tyla Bertolly, Naomi Price, Bec Laughton and more for a tribute to their catalogue of hits that established the 1960s musical landscape.
PRESENTED BY THE HARBOUR AGENCY WHEN WHERE TICKETS
23 November at 8pm Concert Hall $70 to $75* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
Justine Clarke
Macca on Tour
POP UP TOUR
Australia’s foremost female children’s entertainer, Justine Clarke is preparing to ‘pop up!’ this summer for a preChristmas treat in ‘Justine Clarke’s Pop Up Tour 2012’. Justine will bring the stage to life in a pop up book theme highlighting the stories we tell through music and song. It will also include a musical reading of Justine’s first book The Gobbledygook Is Eating a Book due for release this October through Penguin. Through live music, the magic of storytelling and an interactive use of the large screen backdrop, the audience won’t be able to resist being thoroughly engaged with this 55-minute musical odyssey of fun!
Ian McNamara hits the road with his band and his long-time mate and musical collaborator Digger Revell to celebrate 30 years of Australia All Over Over, the legendary ABC Sunday morning radio show that connects Aussies all over this wide brown land. This Macca concert will showcase the songs that have touched him and his listeners, tell a yarn or two and bring to the stage his genuine love of country that has kept Australia All Over part of the Sunday morning ritual for so many people over the years. It’s a night of music, song and laughter. You might even see yourself in a video montage of Macca’s many outside broadcasts. He will also reprise his rock‘n’roll days as one of Col Joye’s Joy Boys.
‘Get on with it Macca!’ PRESENTED BY LIVENATION WHEN WHERE TICKETS
28 November at 10am Concert Hall $30.85* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
PRESENTED BY DUET WHEN WHERE TICKETS
29 November at 5pm Concert Hall $39 to $69* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
33
classical
QSO Nordic Fantasy Journey through a Nordic Fantasy with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra and one of Scandinavia’s most respected conductors, QSO’s Principal Guest Conductor Eivind Aadland. This concert will be presented by Guy Noble and will feature a solo performance by the QSO’s Concertmaster, Warwick Adeney. Marvel at the majestic landscapes these composers depicted and also at the unique voices and colours they achieved. Be transported to beautiful Nordic fields and
PRESENTED BY QUEENSLAND SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA WHEN WHERE TICKETS
34
2 September at 11.30am Concert Hall $45 to $67* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
romantic images of pastoral scenes then be brought back to earth with music with a more tragic side. Edvard Grieg, perhaps the most beloved of all Nordic composers, wrote music bursting with lyrical beauty. Highlights in this program include excerpts from Grieg’s Symphonic Dances and Lyric Suite, Sibelius’ Karelia and Lemminkäinen Suite, Nielsen’s Aladdin and Bull’s The Herdgirl’s Sunday.
QSO with Esther Yoo
Pines of Rome
The sight of young artists fearlessly conquering concertos which strike fear into the hearts of much older players is familiar now, but 17 year old Esther Yoo’s heart-stopping blend of confidence and bravura tempered by poise is indescribably exciting, especially in Sibelius’ Violin Concerto. Esther recently came to international attention when she became the youngest prize winner of the 10th International Sibelius Violin Competition in 2010, taking third prize aged 16. With its dark brooding opening, song-like slow movement and restlessly dancing finale, it’s widely regarded as the most taxing in the repertoire. Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet ballet is one of the greatest scores of the twentieth century, whose transcendent ‘symphonic’ qualities never fail to move audiences with its power and eloquence.
Queensland Youth Symphony’s third 2012 concert opens with Job, a Masque for Dancing by Vaughan Williams. This rarely heard orchestral masterpiece, originally composed as ballet music, is a series of vivid musical portraits inspired by William Blake’s Illustrations of the Book of Job.
PRESENTED BY QUEENSLAND SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
PRESENTED BY QUEENSLAND YOUTH ORCHESTRAS
WHEN WHERE TICKETS
7 September at 8pm Concert Hall $62 to $90* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
The famous Sinfonia Concertante for violin, viola and orchestra by Mozart features Graeme Jennings and Yoko Okayasu as soloists. Graeme, a former Concertmaster of QYS and former member of the Arditti String Quartet, is now a Senior Lecturer at the Queensland Conservatorium, and Yoko is the esteemed Principal Viola of the Queensland Symphony Orchestra. The concert concludes with the wonderful tone poem, Pines of Rome by Ottorino Respighi. Full of the might and grandeur of ancient Rome, the spine tingling finale will be a fitting end to this concert.
WHEN WHERE TICKETS
22 September at 7pm Concert Hall $14 to $36* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
35
classical
QSO with Edvard Tchivzhel
QSO Russian Spectacular
Russian Conductor Edvard Tchivzhel returns to Brisbane with Tchaikovsky’s symphonic poem Francesca da Rimini Rimini, a musical vortex of anguished love where the music demonstrates a lyrical and dramatic genius. In the final work Maestro Tchivzhel and the Orchestra will sweep the audience into total submission with Rachmaninov’s Symphonic Dances, darkly glamorous, even slightly wicked music and his last orchestral work. In between, Russian pianist Nikolai Demidenko, once described as a force of nature at the keyboard, in Rachmaninov’s spikily brilliant Fourth Piano Concerto. Both works prove Rachmaninov’s creative power remained undimmed at the end of his life.
Russian music, like the land itself, is a universe. This wonderful program is not just a journey through this vast, mysterious country, but a not-to-be-missed exploration of the Russian soul through its music. Led by Russian Conductor Edvard Tchivzhel, the program ranges from the gorgeous fantasy of Rimsky-Korsakov’s Sadko to Borodin’s thrilling Polovtsian Dances. and features the beautiful voice of outstanding young tenor, Kang Wang – a sound sure to bring a tear to the eye.
PRESENTED BY BRISBANE FESTIVAL AND QUEENSLAND SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA WHEN WHERE TICKETS
36
29 September at 8pm Concert Hall $62 to $90* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
PRESENTED BY QUEENSLAND SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA WHEN WHERE TICKETS
7 October at 11.30am Concert Hall $45 to $67* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
UQ School of Music
QSO with Jack Liebeck
MUSIC WITH HER SILVER SOUND
Experience the wondrous sound of three large ensembles from The University of Queensland. The UQ Symphony Orchestra, the UQ Wind Symphony and the UQ Chorale perform in a concert destined to be a truly dramatic production. The program includes Fauré’s Requiem and Tchaikovsky’s Romeo and Juliet and will be directed by Warwick Potter, Patrick Pickett and Graeme Morton. But passion lends them power, time means, to meet Tempering extremities with extreme sweet. (Prologue, Act II, Romeo and Juliet Juliet)
PRESENTED BY THE UNIVERSITY OF QUEENSLAND WHEN WHERE TICKETS
21 October at 2pm Concert Hall $18 to $25* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
No composer’s works symbolise the spirit of Habsburg Vienna more vividly than the Strauss family and their immortal waltzes, with Johann Strauss the Younger’s masterpiece in 3/4 time, On the Beautiful Blue Danube, the favourite of them all. After the dance, luxuriate in the voluptuous sounds of the QSO’s strings in one of the last and greatest outpourings of Romantic Viennese music, Arnold Schönberg’s Transfigured Night Night. In his annual pilgrimage to Queensland, British violinist Jack Liebeck, reprises his 2011 success with Brahms’ profound and moving Violin Concerto; a work which enshrines the composer’s soul.
PRESENTED BY QUEENSLAND SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA WHEN WHERE TICKETS
27 October at 8pm Concert Hall $62 to $90* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
37
classical
QYO Finale Concert
QSO Circus! Circus!
The 2012 QYO Finale Concert showcases the seven major orchestras of QYO, comprising 480 leading musicians aged 9 to 25.
Today’s children are reliant on more sophisticated forms of entertainment than the circus, but a glance at the list of composers featured in this wonderful concert reveals the creative impact of the circus and the fairground atmosphere on musicians of highly diverse characters. Enjoy Gould’s Concerto for Tap Dancer and Orchestra as well as Stravinsky’s Circus Polka written with the subtitle ‘composed for a baby elephant’ as a parody. Yet not everything is bright and gaudy: Nino Rota’s score for Fellini’s classic La Strada (The Road), evokes a nostalgic tenderness towards these nomadic performers.
Join QYO for an evening of beautiful music, from the high energy groove of the QYO Big Band, inspiring music for Wind Orchestra, to fine excerpts from the great repertoire for Symphony Orchestra. Queensland Youth Symphony, QYO2, QYO3, Junior String Ensemble, Wind Symphony, Wind Ensemble and Big Band all perform highlights from their 2012 repertoire in the QPAC Concert Hall. This concert is very popular for music lovers, enjoying a big variety of orchestral music, and for families with children who learn an instrument and love to see their peers perform. Early bookings are recommended to reserve your preferred seat.
PRESENTED BY QUEENSLAND YOUTH ORCHESTRAS WHEN WHERE TICKETS
38
3 November at 7pm Concert Hall $14 to $29* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
PRESENTED BY QUEENSLAND SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA WHEN WHERE TICKETS
11 November at 11.30am Concert Hall $45 to $67* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
PHOTOGRAPHER ISRAEL RIVERA
QSO Towards the Flame
Southern Cross Soloists JACK AND VICKY
Dancers from the Aboriginal Centre for the Performing Arts (ACPA) join with Expressions Dance Company (EDC) and the QSO to perform a moving and dramatic production including a smouldering version of Carmen performed by EDC (who recently won two Helpmann awards) and ACPA presenting Igor Stravinsky’s most popular work, The Firebird Suite.
In their final showcase performance of the year, Southern Cross Soloists are delighted to welcome Jack Liebeck and Vicky Sayles as joint soloists for a wonderful program of music accentuating the beauty of the violin. This wonderful afternoon will feature a smorgasbord of music ranging from the gorgeous adagios and romantic virtuosity of Bach to the fiery Argentinean tangos of Astor Piazzolla. A highlight of the program will also be the premiere of a new work by Australia’s leading ‘composer of the moment’, James Ledger.
PRESENTED BY QUEENSLAND SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
PRESENTED BY QPAC
WHEN WHERE TICKETS
17 November at 7pm Concert Hall $52 to $75* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
WHEN WHERE TICKETS
18 November at 3pm Concert Hall, Reverse Mode $49 to $54* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
39
classical
ACO
QSO with Eldar Nebolsin
RUSSIAN VISIONS
As soon as he played with the ACO, Steven Osborne wanted to return with Shostakovich’s Piano Concerto No. 1, a work requiring flexibility and humour from an immensely virtuosic string orchestra. The time has now come with this all-Russian concert. Brimming with carefree energy, Tchaikovsky’s Souvenir is an exuberant postcard from an Italian summer holiday.
‘Richard Tognetti was intent on making the most of the Russian nostalgia, romancing his violins, sending the audience into a clapping frenzy.’
Long overshadowed by the ubiquitous First, Tchaikovsky’s Second Piano Concerto is finally receiving its just acknowledgement. Here is a rare chance to hear this marvellously expansive work in its entirety and marvel at the long reverie during the slow movement where the piano participates in a dialogue with cello and violin. It is performed by Eldar Nebolsin, who has garnered accolades for his recordings of Romantic music. Another revelation is the Gorchakov arrangement of Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition. Many leading conductors believe this orchestration conveys more of the colour, vitality and earthiness of old Russia. This sensational version is like looking at the pictures with decades of varnish removed.
HERALD SUN
PRESENTED BY AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER ORCHESTRA WHEN WHERE TICKETS
40
19 November at 8pm Concert Hall $45.70 to $92.70* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
PRESENTED BY QUEENSLAND SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA WHEN WHERE TICKETS
24 November at 8pm Concert Hall $62 to $90 *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
talk
The Great Debate: Reading the Bible is good for you… FEATURING GERMAINE GREER, BOB KATTER, RICHARD HOLLOWAY, BEN LAW, JACQUI PAYNE AND RACHEL SOMMERVILLE
One of the world’s most provocative and powerful thinkers, Germaine Greer, joins former Bishop of Edinburgh Richard Holloway; and federal politician Bob Katter; alongside the first Aborigine to be appointed as a magistrate in Queensland Jacqui Payne; local writer Benjamin Law; and criminal defense investigator Rachel Sommerville in a lively and passionate debate adjudicated by Roland Sussex.
Be enthralled as each participant puts forward their considered and robust arguments for or against the divisive proposal that ‘Reading the Bible is good for you…’ as part of Brisbane Writers Festival’s program of events.
PRESENTED BY BRISBANE WRITERS FESTIVAL IN COLLABORATION WITH QPAC WHEN WHERE TICKETS
8 September at 5.30pm Concert Hall $35* *TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
qpac.com.au | 136 246
41
exhibition
La Stupenda and friends When Joan Sutherland made her triumphant return to Australia in 1965, she sparked a renewed interest in opera. Brisbane already had a history of local opera performance, and Sutherland’s appearances at Her Majesty’s in October 1965 were a huge popular success. This exhibition features costumes from that iconic season, worn by Sutherland in the roles of Lucia in Lucia di Lammermoor and the doomed courtesan Violetta in La Traviata.
PRESENTED BY QPAC WHEN WHERE
from 3 July Tony Gould Gallery
FREE EVENT
42
LUCIA DI LAMMERMOOR WEDDING DRESS WORN BY DAME JOAN SUTHERLAND, HER MAJESTY’S THEATRE BRISBANE, 1965 COSTUME DETAIL PHOTOGRAPHED BY MICHAEL ANDREW DARE
It will explore the development of opera in Brisbane since that landmark season, focusing on both the local companies that responded to a reinvigorated audience demand, and the Queensland artists, such as Margreta Elkins, who carved out a national and international career. Opera at its best combines the elements of music, design and performance of the highest level. La Stupenda and friends features costumes, original designs, photographs and memorabilia to celebrate this remarkable art form.
free event
Green Jam Sessions Smooth Jazz, Groovy Lounge As the weather heats up Green Jam Sessions return to QPAC’s Melbourne Street Green, swinging into action every Friday at dusk for an evening of chilled lounge and smooth jazz.
Friday evening at Green Jam Sessions is the perfect way to wrap up the working week and start the weekend wind down with cool tunes, chilled beverages and great company.
In this free showcase of live music, supported by Heritage Bank, the multi-talented musicians from Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University showcase their impressive skills with a repertoire of jazz standards, contemporary grooves and laid back funk.
GREEN JAM SESSIONS MAJOR PARTNER: HERITAGE BANK GREEN JAM SESSIONS SUPPORTED BY: GRIFFITH UNIVERSITY QUEENSLAND CONSERVATORIUM
PRESENTED BY QPAC WHEN WHERE
5 October to 7 December (Friday Evenings) 5pm to 8pm Melbourne Street Green
qpac.com.au | 136 246
FREE EVENT
43
QPAC Hosts The business of entertainment
Let QPAC Hosts take the effort out of your corporate entertainment, with a fresh approach, a range of premium food and beverage options and the best selection of live performance in Brisbane to turn your next corporate event into a totally unique experience, tailor-made to your needs.
A QPAC Hosts event delivers: EXCLUSIVITY creatively designed, private events, tailored to the specific needs of you and your clients ENTERTAINMENT the best of local, national and international live performances EXPERIENCE from start to finish your event will create an unforgettable entertainment experience To book a corporate event with QPAC Hosts, call 07 3842 9250 or visit qpac.com.au/hosts
44
meet and eat just moments from your theatre seats
QPAC has a range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. LYREBIRD RESTAURANT Quality à la carte menu, excellent service and a relaxed atmosphere at QPAC’s flagship restaurant. Lyrebird bookings | 07 3840 7598 THE CAFÉ Great range of burgers and meals cooked to order in an urban oasis next to the Melbourne Street Green. THE BISTRO Try our new char-grill steakhouse menu. Pre-show meals for the whole family in a casual, alfresco setting. PLAYHOUSE COFFEE BAR Light meals, snacks, cakes and coffee at the Playhouse. THE BAR Featuring our hand-selected fine wines, cocktails and boutique beers, The Bar is the ideal meeting place either side of the show. FOYER BARS Foyer bars open 90 minutes prior to your performance. For a lighter dining option, why not enjoy an antipasto or cheese share plate.
View menus online at qpac.com.au/dining
THE ART OF WINE Dinner Series Join us for live music, great company and perfectly matched flavours at QPAC’s Art of Wine dinner series. 25 SEPTEMBER 2012 SIRROMET, QLD | $120 Find out why Sirromet wines are perfect for the Queensland climate and lifestyle. Hosted by winemaker Adam Chapman
More at qpac.com.au/artofwine LYREBIRD RESTAURANT, QPAC BOOKINGS QPAC.COM.AU | 136 246
46
Dine, play and stay at Treasury Casino & Hotel
To make a reservation, visit www.treasurybrisbane.com.au or call 1800 506 889. Follow us on facebook – facebook.com/treasurycasino
Treasury Casino & Hotel practises the responsible service of alcohol. BET WITH YOUR HEAD, NOT OVER IT.
LIVE IT UP AT OAKS HOTELS & RESORTS
BRISBANE • SUNSHINE COAST • REDCLIFFE • GOLD COAST • TOWNSVILLE • PORT DOUGLAS
Live it up in Queensland with Oaks Hotels & Resorts. Enjoy spacious apartment style rooms and resort facilities in the best CBD locations and resort destinations including Brisbane, Townsville, Redcliffe, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and Port Douglas.
oakshotelsresorts.com resorts.com
R AT E S F O R T H E R E A L W O R L D
QPAC is grateful for the support of our valued Partners. Partnerships play a critical role in our ability to produce and present cultural projects. We thank our partners and supporters for their continued investment in ensuring the growth and potential of live performance in Queensland.
— PARTNERS —
HOTEL PARTNER
APARTMENT PARTNER
— SUPPORTERS —
important information bookings
late arrivals
Online
qpac.com.au
Phone
136 246 9am-8.30pm Mon-Sat
Construction work around South Bank and other activity such as events at nearby football stadiums can cause delays in traffic. Please check the start time of your show and allow enough time to cover possible delays. For most performances, latecomers cannot be admitted until a suitable break in the program.
In person QPAC Box Office, Level M, QPAC 9am-8.30pm Brisbane Visitor Information and Booking Centre Queen Street Mall, Brisbane Ticket Central, Central Station, Brisbane 9am-5pm South Bank Parklands Visitor Information Centre State Library of Queensland Book Shop Groups
Phone 07 3840 7466
All prices include booking fee. *Transaction fee applies.
stay informed You can stay up-to-date with all the latest events at QPAC by visiting qpac.com.au where you’ll find information, photo galleries, video footage and reviews. You can also subscribe to our fortnightly QPAC eNews. qpac.com.au now also accessible through your mobile.
accessibility For the convenience of patrons who have difficulty walking, a specific set down area is open in the QPAC basement 90 minutes prior to performances in the Concert Hall and Lyric Theatre. Entry to the set down area is from the tunnel entrance at Grey Street. If you require assistance due to mobility, hearing or other access difficulties, please mention your requirements when booking, or by telephone on 136 246 before your visit.
check your tickets Please check your tickets carefully and make sure you know the date, time and location of your performance. ALL INFORMATION CORRECT AT TIME OF PRINTING
mobile phones and cameras For the safety of performers and enjoyment of other patrons, please ensure mobile phones (including SMS and MMS messaging) are switched off and that cameras, including video cameras are not used during the performance.
food and drink Unless otherwise advised, food and drink are not permitted in the theatres. Bottled water is permitted.
audio description At some performances trained Audio Describers provide a commentary with concise descriptions of actions, expressions and gestures to complement the theatre experience for patrons who are blind or have low vision. Patrons collect headsets at the Cloakroom, Ticket Sales Foyer, Mezzanine Level and need to be seated 15 minutes before the performance to receive program details together with descriptions of costumes and stage settings. To purchase tickets to audio-described performances phone qtix group sales (07) 3840 7466 or email groups@qpac.com.au
waitlists Join QPAC’s Waitlists to receive special priority booking offers and be amongst the first to secure your seats for the hottest shows in town. Visit qpac.com.au for more info.
The Hamburg Ballet – John Neumeier
A Midsummer Night’s Dream Performed with Queensland Symphony Orchestra. Conductor Simon Hewett.
Shakespeare’s great comedy A Midsummer Night’s Dream is one of his most popular works, performed innumerable times in almost every country in the world and in a myriad of interpretations, from the stage at Stratford-upon-Avon to Hollywood’s silver screen. It has also provided lavish inspiration for composers and choreographers, including Benjamin Britten’s eponymous opera and George Balanchine’s ballet version using Felix Mendelssohn’s famous incidental music. That same music is also used by The Hamburg Ballet’s celebrated choreographer and Artistic Director John Neumeier in his ravishing version of this great classic tale of magic, mistaken identity and lovers’ quarrels. Neumeier sees the action existing on three levels and chooses his music and movement accordingly. For the lovers and the court scenes, it’s Mendelssohn. For the mysterious fairy world it’s works by Hungarian György Ligeti, one of the most important composers of the late 20th century, and for the comic scenes, the barrel organ grinds out familiar street tunes. Perfect for the whole family, this is one of Neumeier’s most joyous creations, a rare combination of inspired concept, exquisite choreography and broad comedy. PRESENTED BY QPAC AND EVENTS QUEENSLAND IN ASSOCIATION WITH BRISBANE FESTIVAL
Thursday 30 August to Wednesday 5 September, Playhouse, QPAC Tickets $95 to $160 TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
SPECIAL EVENT - AN INSIGHT INTO A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM Join Artistic Director John Neumeier as he shares his philosophy, ideas, musical and choreographic choices. Tuesday 4 September, 11am, Playhouse QPAC Tickets $25 to $35 TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
‘Neumeier has clearly found a story whose balance of humour and dramatic complexity allows him to exercise his considerable wit and inventiveness with an intelligent structure.’ NEW YORK NATIVE
HAMBURG BALLET ENSEMBLE PHOTOGRAPHER HOLGER BADEKOW
Hamburg Philharmonic Orchestra with the Hamburg State Opera Mahler Symphony No.2 Resurrection
The names of those who have conducted the Hamburg Philharmonic Orchestra is a roll call of the greats of the 19th and 20th centuries. But no figure looms larger in Hamburg’s impressive musical history than composer Gustav Mahler, who led the orchestra in numerous operas and concerts, including premieres of his own compositions. It was during his tenure in Hamburg that Mahler composed what is viewed by many music lovers as the greatest of his masterpieces, the sublime Symphony No. 2 known as Resurrection. This monumental work for full orchestra and chorus features one of the most transcendent moments in all music – the ethereal closing chorus, ‘Rise up, yes you will rise up’. In this not-to-be missed performance Simone Young leads the orchestra of which she is Principal Conductor, the specially formed Brisbane Mahler Chorus and distinguished soloists, acclaimed Swedish mezzo soprano Anna Larsson and Korean coloratura soprano Hayoung Lee.
PRESENTED BY QPAC AND EVENTS QUEENSLAND CONDUCTOR SIMONE YOUNG IS PRESENTED WITH THE SUPPORT OF GRIFFITH UNIVERSITY
Friday 24 August, 8pm, Concert Hall, QPAC Tickets $95 to $195 TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
MAHLER LIVE SIMULCAST FREE OUTDOOR EVENT PRESENTED BY THE COURIER-MAIL Friday 24 August, 7.30pm, Cultural Forecourt, South Bank
The Hamburg Ballet – John Neumeier
Nijinsky Vaslav Nijinsky was the first male superstar of ballet, a mythic dancer and a virtuoso who, during his short career, electrified audiences throughout Europe. Millions of words have been written about his electric stage presence, his legendary leaps, the intensity of his characterisations, each forged by the genius of his imagination. Choreographer John Neumeier, a passionate historian of the Ballets Russes with which Nijinsky first danced in the west, takes this event as his starting point as Nijinsky’s fevered brain recalls the great ballets in which he danced and some of those he choreographed.
Nijinsky is a haunting, insightful homage to the greatest of male ballet dancers, an artist whose innovations, like those of the choreographer himself, are still powerful today. PRESENTED BY QPAC AND EVENTS QUEENSLAND IN ASSOCIATION WITH BRISBANE FESTIVAL
Sunday 26 August to Tuesday 28 August, Playhouse, QPAC Tickets $95 to $160 TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
DANCERS ALEXANDRE RIABKO, SILVIA AZZONI PHOTOGRAPHER HOLGER BADEKOW
The Hamburg Season In another arts coup for Queensland the Hamburg Philharmonic Orchestra and Hamburg State Opera led by world-renowned Australian conductor Simone Young, and The Hamburg Ballet under the direction of legendary choreographer John Neumeier will visit Brisbane this August. The Queensland Performing Arts Centre will be taken over by more than 250 of the world’s greatest musicians and dancers for the Hamburg Season as part of the QPAC International Series. The Hamburg Season runs 23 August to 5 September and will encompass a number of special events that further explore and celebrate the Season’s performance pieces. These include a free Live Simulcast and Insight and Conversation sessions featuring expert commentators and members of the Hamburg Companies. To book visit qpac.com.au | 136 246
COVER: DANCERS ALINA COJOCARU THIAGO BORDIN PHOTOGRAHER HOLGER BADEKOW SIMONE YOUNG PHOTOGRAPHER PHILIPP RATHMER
Hamburg State Opera with the Hamburg Philharmonic Orchestra
Das Rheingold
One of the greatest works in the operatic canon is Richard Wagner’s mighty Ring Cycle, four operas that, if performed sequentially, would run for over fifteen hours. Wagner spent twenty six years on this sublime epic music drama that encompasses every human emotion – ambition, greed, hatred, folly, vanity and, ultimately, redemption through love. Although composed last, Das Rheingold is the opera that opens the cycle and its comparatively short length means that it is often performed as a stand-alone work. For these two exclusive Brisbane concert performances, acclaimed Wagner specialist Simone Young will lead her ensemble cast of today’s pre-eminent Wagner interpreters from the Hamburg State Opera. A once in a lifetime chance to experience Wagner’s masterpiece.
PRESENTED BY QPAC AND EVENTS QUEENSLAND CONDUCTOR SIMONE YOUNG IS PRESENTED WITH THE SUPPORT OF GRIFFITH UNIVERSITY
Thursday 23 and Saturday 25 August, 8pm, Concert Hall, QPAC Tickets $95 to $195 TRANSACTION FEE APPLIES
THE HAMBURG CONVERSATION SERIES Find out more about Das Rheingold and Mahler’s Resurrection Symphony by attending the free entertaining and informative Hamburg Conversation Series, Lyrebird Restaurant, QPAC. Sunday 5 August, 2.30pm, Lisa Gasteen with Leo Schofield Sunday 12 August, 2.30pm, Stephen Emmerson with Peter Bassett Sunday 19 August, 2.30pm, Emily Cox with Richard Wenn
HAMBURG SEASON BALLET
OPERA
MUSIC
AUGUST TO SEPTEMBER