SEASON
Wagga Wagga City Council yali gulbali-yanhi ngurambang Wiradyuri. Walumaldhaany-galang bala mayiny Wiradyuri Yindyamali-yanhi mudyiganggalang-bu balumbambal-bu balugirbam-bu. Yindyamali-yanhi bagaraygan ngurambang-guwal-i yandu murun.wigi Wagga Wagga-dha. Ngiyanhi gulbali-bu yindyamali-bu guwiinyguliyalagu buyaa-bu giilaang-galam-bu. Ngiyanhi gulbali-bu yindyamali-bu guwiinyguliyalagu dhaagun-bu bila-galang-bu nganha Wiradyuri-giyalang bala burrambin-bu nurranurra-bu. Gulbali-yanhi Wiradyuri mayiny bagaraygan-guwal-bu bala yarruwala-bu waluwin-bu walanbam-bu dhirrangal-bu.
Wagga Wagga City Council acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land, the Wiradyuri people, and pays respect to Elders past, present and future and extends our respect to all First Nations Peoples in Wagga Wagga. We recognise and respect their cultural heritage, beliefs and continuing connection with the land and rivers. We also recognise the resilience, strength and pride of the Wiradyuri and First Nations communities.
Artwork credit: Owen Lyons
Wagga Wagga Civic Theatre is a cultural facility of Wagga Wagga City Council. 2
The word that encapsulates 2024 for me is JOY. In 2024 we bring you contemporary dance, ballet, three significant First Nations works, contemporary music, opera, circus and a joyful season of works for kids and families.
The importance of social connection and happiness is something that I feel passionately about. We look for places to gather with friends and loved ones to satisfy our need for social connection and to satisfy our senses.
You will see us transform our upper foyer and balcony into a live music venue for some extraordinary Australian acts through our Sundown Sessions in April and home grown Balcony Sessions throughout the year.
For over 60 years the Civic Theatre has been providing a place for culture and connection. In the last 12 months, over 65 thousand people have attended a performance at the Civic Theatre.
For the first time ever, we are offering a membership option for subscribers who want to get more value from their regular theatre visits or as an option for those who find it hard to plan too far ahead. One of the big membership perks this year is a sneak peek at the 2024 Comedy Festival program and the opportunity to get your tickets to the BIG acts early.
But beyond this, the Wollundry Lagoon location has been a culturally significant meeting place for the Wiradjuri people for thousands of years. So, it seems fitting that the Season 2024 line up is so varied and includes works such as The Visitors, The Sunshine Club and Yuldea, from our First Nations storytellers, ensuring that we continue to share the stories of the oldest continuous culture on earth.
This year, I would like to extend a challenge to step outside of your comfort zone, and grab a ticket to something you wouldn’t ordinarily see. If you’re a theatre kid like me, check out Bangarra’s Yuldea and witness the breathtaking work of our national First Nations contemporary dance company. If you’re generally a contemporary music lover, take a plunge with Opera Australia’s La Boheme, one of the most loved and accessible operas.
I congratulate the Civic Theatre on presenting another year of live entertainment for our residents and visitors to enjoy. The theatre continues to bring world-class performances to our city and more than ever, it is clear that we do not need to travel to larger capital cities to experience high quality entertainment, it's all happening here at the Civic Theatre! As a cultural and social meeting place, the Civic Theatre is indeed the heartbeat of our city. In 2024, I encourage you to visit the theatre with friends. Make a night of it, go for dinner before, have a drink afterwards and experience our city at night and all that it has to offer.
Subscribers with littlies or grandkids, DO NOT miss out on Erth’s Shark Dive in July, an experience only seen at metropolitan festivals so far, and a wonderful experiential gift for your little ones. I guarantee you won’t be disappointed. There really is something for everyone in 2024, so come and play with us, at our much loved Civic Theatre, the heartbeat of our wonderful city.
Councillor Dallas Tout Mayor of the City of Wagga Wagga
Claire Harris Manager, Wagga Wagga Civic Theatre 3
SEASON
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AT A GLANCE
THE SMEDS AND THE SMOOS
DEBORAH CONWAY & WILLY ZYGIER
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EMMA DONOVAN
A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM
Thurs 18th April
Tues 18th June
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YULDEA BANGARRA DANCE
Wed 13th March WAGGA COMEDY FEST
SUNDOWN SESSIONS
Thurs 6th June Sun 10th June
Sat 13th April Sat 27th April FAM
Tues 26th March Wed 27th March
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Visit our website to get all the show details and find out about memberships and subscriptions! civictheatre.com.au
Want to learn more?
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Sat 3rd August
SDC MOMENTA
LA BOHÈME - OPERA AUSTRALIA
Sat 6th July
SLAP. BANG. KISS
Tues 3rd September
Tues 6th August
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THE PEASANT PRINCE
Mon 9th September Tues 10th September
GRUG
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THE VISITORS
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THE DEFIANT
Thurs 19th September
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JOIN THE CIVIC THEATRE FAMILY WITH A SUBSCRIPTION, MEMBERSHIP OR BOTH! WHAT IS A THEATRE SEASON?
SUBSCRIPTION OR MEMBERSHIP?
It sounds fancy, but the season is simply a collection of shows that have been selected by us and brought to Wagga Wagga for you to enjoy. Other performances will come to the theatre through the year (in fact we have a very full calendar of concerts and events already planned), but these are the hand-picked ones we think you will love.
The short answer is both! You don’t need to select one or the other. A membership is a great way for subscribers to get more value from their theatre attendance throughout the year. A subscription suits those who like to plan ahead, book their entertainment in advance and save.
You can choose to purchase tickets to individual shows or become a subscriber and plan your whole year of theatre early to save.
A membership is for those who come to shows outside of our season and those who might find it difficult to plan too far ahead and aren’t quite ready to dive straight into a subscription.
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SUBSCRIPTION HOW DO I SUBSCRIBE?
It costs you nothing to become a subscriber. You can enjoy the benefits of subscription by simply booking for four or more shows in our season. Complete your subscription online or call us to find out more.
Priority booking Subscribers have access to an exclusive pre-sale period for season shows. Lock in your seats before the general public.
Exchange Life can be hectic! If something conflicts with your booking, exchange your tickets for a different session, or even a different show within the season!
Book now pay later
Access to special events
Secure your seats and receive your tickets without any upfront cost.
Subscribers are invited to join us for supper at post-show meet and greets with artists, staff and fellow subscribers.
Save on seats Subscribers get discounted tickets to season shows, and also enjoy discounts on other selected shows during the year.
Only $50 per year
MEMBERSHIP
Get more value from your visits to the Civic Theatre by becoming a Member. Sign up for a Membership online or call us to find out more.
Free drink vouchers Receive four (4) free drink vouchers to use at the Theatre Bar (retail value $48).
Exclusive opportunities Members are invited to join us for exclusive Member events held throughout the year.
Special offers Exclusive Member presales and special offers throughout the year.
Birthday Gift Receive a $10 voucher to redeem at the Box office during your birthday month. It’s our way of saying Happy Birthday! 7
Early access to comedy Receive early access to select Wagga Comedy Fest shows before they go on sale to the public.
Save on seats Receive discounted Member ticket prices on events in and out of the Season.
FRIDAY 1 MARCH 10AM, 12PM AND 4PM 55 mins (no interval)
CDP Presents
THE SMEDS AND THE SMOOS Adapted by Tall Stories from the picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler
Soar into space with this exciting adaptation of the award-winning book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler (also seen in the TV animation on ABC Kids).
Director: Toby Mitchell Set & Costumes Designer: Barney George Music & Lyrics: Jon Fiber & Andy Shaw for Jollygoodtunes Puppet Designer: Yvonne Stone Lighting Designer: Peter Harrison Choreographer: Julia Cave Costume Supervisor: Martin Rodges Production Manager: Nick May Collaborator: Zhaolin Zhou R&D Co-Director: Olivia Jacobs Associate Director: Nicole Pingon
On a far-off planet, Smeds and Smoos can’t be friends. So when a young Smed and Smoo fall in love and zoom off into space together, how will their families get them back?
TICKET PRICES
One Price $29 Group/ Subscriber $25
Music, laughs and interplanetary adventures for everyone aged three and up, from the team that brought you The Gruffalo and Room on the Broom live on stage.
“Perfect family viewing.” BEYONDTHECURTAIN.CO.UK
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Image credit: The Smeds and The Smoos © Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler 2019, published by Scholastic 9
SATURDAY 2 MARCH 7.30PM 1 hour 20 mins (no interval)
DEBORAH CONWAY & WILLY ZYGIER Songs From The Book of Life
Embark on a musical journey with Songs from the Book of Life, a unique theatrical experience by Deborah Conway & Willy Zygier, based on Conway's recently released, critically acclaimed memoir.
Performers, composers, writers: Deborah Conway, Willy Zygier Director: Michael Kantor Designer: Chloe Greaves Video Designer: Nicholas Roux Lighting Designer: Stephen Hawker Sound Engineer: Siiri Metsar Choreographer: Stephanie Lake
Traverse their four-decade-long careers, exploring their story of youth, rebellion, love, aging, and the world of music.
TICKET PRICES
Adult $70 Concession / Member $65 Group 4+ $65 Youth Under 25 $40
This bold tour-de-force features original music, theatrical storytelling, and the gritty details of an iconic woman who transformed the Australian music industry.
SUBSCRIBER PRICES Adult Subscriber $65 Concession Subscriber $60 Youth Under 25 Subscriber $35
Dive into this tale of honesty, humour, and revelation.
“Blessed with an angelic voice, deft at lyrical wordplay and armed with a seemingly inexhaustive melody well, Conway - and partner Zygier - create songs which become best friends for life.” DAILY TELEGRAPH
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WEDNESDAY 13 MARCH 7.30PM 1 hour (no interval)
Bangarra Dance Theatre
YULDEA We are memory. Glimpsed through shimmering light on water. A story place where black oaks stand watch. Carved into trees and painted on rocks. North – South – East – West. A brittle landscape of life and loss.
At Yuldea, stories hover in the sky. The stars reveal a divine Songline, stretching between earth and sky.
Choreographer: Frances Rings and the dancers of Bangarra Dance Theatre Set Designer: Elizabeth Gadsby Costume Designer: Jennifer Irwin Lighting Designer: Karen Norris Composer: Leon Rodgers Guest Composers: Electric Fields
From the incomparable storytellers of Bangarra Dance Theatre comes a major new work. Frances Rings’ first work as Artistic Director is a ceremonial affirmation of history and heritage. Yuldea awakens the earth and sky worlds to tell the story of the Anangu people of the Great Victorian Desert.
TICKET PRICES
Adult $70 Concession/Member $65 Group 4+ $65 Youth Under 25 $40 Child Under 15 $29
Yuldea explores the moment traditional life collided with the industrial ambition of a growing nation.
SUBSCRIBER PRICES Adult Subscriber $ 65 Concession Subscriber $60 Youth Under 25 Subscriber $35
In 1917, the two halves of the Transcontinental Railway met at the precious water soak on the edge of the Nullarbor, Yuldi Kapi.
Please note that this production contains elevated sound levels, strobe, haze, smoke effects and voices of people who have passed.
“Yuldea is so fresh and uninhibited it almost bursts off the stage.” SYDNEY MORNING HERALD / THE AGE / BRISBANE TIMES
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Image credit: Daniel Boud 13
TUESDAY 26 MARCH 10AM AND 1PM
WEDNESDAY 27 MARCH 10AM AND 1PM
1 hour (no interval)
YOU ARE A DOUGHNUT A biological-musical-comedy-adventure — that explores the ins and outs of the human digestive system
From the creators of The Alphabet of Awesome Science comes a brand-new multi-award winning family show... You are a Doughnut! It’s true! YOU are a great big fleshy lump with a remarkable hole running all the way through your middle — your digestive system.
Director/Designer/Writer (Book & Lyrics): David Lampard Composer: Mark Ferguson Stage Manager: Amanda Rowe Performer, Oesoph A. Gus: Rod Schultz Performer, Dewey Dean: PJ Oaten Voiceover Artist: Sharon Robertson Sound Designer: Rodney Hutton
Join biology teachers Oesoph A. Gus and Dewey Dean as they embark upon an utterly brilliant all-singing, all-dancing (and allclowning!) exploration of every twisting tube and remarkable organ — with sketches, songs, and sensational science.
TICKET PRICES
One Price $29 Group / Subscriber / Member $25
Along the way you’ll encounter a frenzy of enzymepowered ping pong balls, sing along with a rainbow collection of poop puppets, and witness the weirdest poetry performance you’ve ever seen.
“A lesson on the human digestive system in the most fun, action-packed way you could possibly imagine” GLAM ADELAIDE 2022 | Ben Stefanoff
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THURSDAY 4 APRIL 6.30PM
FRIDAY 5 APRIL 10.30AM
55 mins (no interval)
TEMPO A Flying Fruit Fly Circus production
When the orchestra hasn’t shown up and the audience is waiting, call the Flying Fruit Fly Circus! A highly distinguished musician has arrived to conduct their latest symphony, but the orchestra is nowhere to be found. Fortunately, the Fruities are ready to save the day! And create chaos with the concert grand piano…
Director: Jake Silvestro Original Score: Ania Reynolds Creative Circus Associate: Lauren Shepherd Lighting Designer: Kofi Isaacs Costume Designer: April Dawson Produced by: Flying Fruit Fly Circus Featuring a cast of young acrobats from the Flying Fruit Fly Circus
Directed by Jake Silvestro with an original score by Ania Reynolds, Tempo features an extraordinary ensemble of young performers aged between 12 and 18 who not only possess dazzling circus skills but also play instruments!
Adult $45 Concession/Member $40 Group 4+ $40 Youth Under 25 $30 Child Under 15 $20 Family Ticket (2A + 2C) $110
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Shifting between striking aerial acts and highly choreographed acrobatic chaos, Tempo draws heavily on the traditional knockabout humour of the Flying Fruit Fly Circus – a trademark of the company over many years.
SUBSCRIBER PRICES Adult Subscriber $40 Concession Subscriber $35 Youth Under 25 Subscriber $25 “Ordinary kids doing extraordinary things!”
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Image credit: Ian Sutherland 17
THURSDAY 18 APRIL 6PM 1 hour 40 mins (including interval)
EMMA DONOVAN Songs, Stories and Soul from Family and Country
This concert showcases the talent and the new work of celebrated, ARIA-nominated, award-winning Indigenous singer and songwriter Emma Donovan. Emma and her band will include her trademark soul/country songs and new music recorded in Gumbaynggirr and Noongar languages. TICKET PRICES
Emma proudly is one of the First Nations artists, spearheading efforts to put traditional languages on the music map. She will also share stories, providing her audiences with an understanding of Country and community.
Adult $70 Concession / Member $65 Group 4+ $65 Youth Under 25 $40 Child Under 15 $25
SUBSCRIBER PRICES Adult Subscriber $65 Concession Subscriber $60 Youth Under 25 Subscriber $35
“I want to share my story with Australia and the world, and I want audiences to hear my songs and languages to enhance their knowledge of our expansive history of this country.” Emma Donovan
“Donovan can front a well-oiled soul band in her sleep.” ROLLING STONE
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TUESDAY 18 JUNE 7.30PM 2 hours (including interval)
Bell Shakespeare’s
A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM By William Shakespeare Director Peter Evans
Shakespeare’s classic comedy, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, is reawakened in this breathless production brimming with magic, mirth and mayhem.
Design: Teresa Negroponte Lighting Design: Benjamin Cisterne Sound and Composition: Max Lyandvert Cast: Ella Prince, Mike Howlett, Kyle Morrison, Imogen Sage and Laurence Young
Love is in the air in Athens – and it’s contagious. Besides the royal wedding, which is just days away, there are young lovers dreaming of enchanted futures together. Hermia and Lysander are besotted with one another, while Helena adores Demetrius. The only snag is that Demetrius loves Hermia – and he’s got Hermia’s father on his side. So nobody is happy. (Shakespeare wasn’t kidding when he said the course of true love never did run smooth.)
TICKET PRICES Adult $70 Concession/Member $65 Group 4+ $65 Youth Under 25 $40 Child Under 15 $29
SUBSCRIBER PRICES
Adult Subscriber $65 Concession Subscriber $60 Youth Under 25 Subscriber $35 “Bell Shakespeare has mastered the art of presenting Shakespeare in a manner that is accessible to the modern-day audience, while still endearing those who love the tradition.” AUSTRALIAN STAGE
This production is quick as a shadow. Fast, funny and familyfriendly, this is A Midsummer Night’s Dream reimagined.
Bell Shakespeare is assisted by the Australian Government through Creative Australia, its principal arts investment and advisory body, and by the NSW Government through Create NSW.
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SATURDAY 6 JULY 7.30PM Approx. 1 hour (no interval)
Sydney Dance Company’s
MOMENTA Choreographed by Artistic Director Rafael Bonachela
Momenta is a journey into the poetry and physics of human connection by celebrated choreographer Rafael Bonachela.
Choreography: Rafael Bonachela Music: Original Score by Nick Wales featuring Distant Light by Pēteris Vasks Lighting Design: Damien Cooper Set and Costume Design: Elizabeth Gadsby Associate Designer: Emma White
This mesmerising piece presents a kaleidoscope of energies, capturing the essence of fleeting moments suspended between past and future, where individual trajectories collide and intertwine.
TICKET PRICES Adult $70 Concession / Member $65 Group 4+ $65 Youth Under 25 $40 Child Under 15 $29
SUBSCRIBER PRICES Adult Subscriber $65 Concession Subscriber $60 Youth Under 25 Subscriber $35
“Make no mistake, this is a serious contemporary dance company with highly trained, versatile dancers that deserves a place on the world stage. Do not miss the chance to see this accomplished company that will no doubt take the world by storm.” THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF DANCE
Sydney Dance Company is assisted by the Australian Government through Creative Australia, its principal arts investment and advisory body, and is supported by the NSW Government through Create NSW.
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Image credit: Justin Ridler. Company Dancers: Riley Fitzgerald and Naiara de Matos. 23
WEDNESDAY 17 JULY 7.30PM
THURSDAY 18 JULY 7.30PM
2hrs 20mins (including interval)
The Australian Ballet On Tour
THE SLEEPING BEAUTY ACT III AND OTHER WORKS
The Australian Ballet is going on tour in 2024 with an exhilarating program of your favourite classical pieces and ground-breaking contemporary work. This program will treat audiences to a mixed bill, including the spectacular Act III of Marius Petipa’s The Sleeping Beauty, alongside an excerpt from renowned contemporary choreographer Stephanie Lake’s Circle Electric. The program will also highlight pieces from The Australian Ballet’s extensive repertoire in an event perfect for those new to ballet and seasoned ballet lovers.
TICKET PRICES Adult $75 Concession/Member $70 Group 4+ $70 Child Under 15 $40
SUBSCRIBER PRICES Adult Subscriber $70 Concession Subscriber $65 “The Australian Ballet On Tour is a vital link to the audiences who love ballet around the country.” DAVID HALLBERG, THE AUSTRALIAN BALLET ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
Join The Australian Ballet for this very special tour in 2024.
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Image credit: Simon Eeles. Dancer: Grace Carroll 25
“As someone who is new to the Wagga area I cannot tell you how thankful I am to you for creating such a positive customer experience.”
“We have just received the Season program in our mail and wanted to say thank you. This is the most beautiful publication full to the brim of incredible productions. We can't wait to get booking!”
LAST YEAR:
2,604 performers appeared on our stage 2,188 of those were locals! 65,929 people visited the Civic Theatre 315kg of Maltesers were consumed by theatre goers 1,711 bottles of wine were served from the Theatre Bar
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The theatre’s grand piano is named Kevin (and has a sister piano named Kate).
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SATURDAY 3 AUGUST 7.30PM 2 hours 30 mins (including interval)
THE SUNSHINE CLUB Written and Directed by Wesley Enoch Music by John Rodgers
Written and directed by proud Noonuccal Nuugi man Wesley Enoch AM, this energetic and engaging musical play has a variety of music styles, with 28 songs composed by the esteemed John Rodgers. It tells the story of Frank Doyle, an Aboriginal serviceman who has come home from World War II to find that although the wider world may have changed, attitudes back home in Brisbane are just the same.
Writer & Director: Wesley Enoch Composer: John Rodgers Producer: Christine Harris Musical Director: Shenzo Gregorio
Filled with a defiant energy and ambition for a better life, Frank starts The Sunshine Club, a place where black and white can meet and, most importantly, dance. Here he dreams of a future where he can dance in step with Rose, the girl next door, the girl of his dreams.
TICKET PRICES Adult $55 Concession/Member $50 Group 4+ $50 Youth Under 25 $35
SUBSCRIBER PRICES Adult Subscriber $50 Concession Subscriber $45 Youth Under 25 Subscriber $30
The award-winning Sunshine Club is a thought provoking, vibrant and above all joyful night of theatre and music, featuring a talented cast of 11, including emerging and established First Nations artists, and a five piece live band.
“The openness and joy radiating from The Sunshine Club is certain to make your spirits soar.” SYDNEY MORNING HERALD
This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through Creative Australia, its arts funding and advisory body.
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TUESDAY 6 AUGUST 7.30PM 2 hours 20 mins (including interval)
Puccini
LA BOHÈME Opera Australia National Tour On a freezing Christmas Eve, love sparks. Two hands meet in the dark and four friends’ lives change forever. Experience the original bohemian love story. Some emotions are too big for words alone, and for that, we have music. La Bohème exposes your soul to the feelings that only music can express. The music soars with the ecstasy of love, crackles with the pain of jealousy and cries with the agony of loss. Puccini’s score has always captured the soaring spirit of young love, and this new production breathes fresh life into one of the world’s favourite operas. Award-winning director Dean Bryant (Anything Goes, Sweet Charity) brings his trademark wit and vivacity to this new staging, which captures that giddy moment where you and your friends feel you’ll live forever.
Director: Dean Bryant Set & Costume Designer: Isabel Hudson Lighting Designer: Damien Cooper
TICKET PRICES
Adult $85 Adult Member $75 Child Under 18 $40
SUBSCRIBER PRICES Adult Subscriber $75
NATIONAL TOUR PARTNERS PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY
SUPPORTING PARTNER
PATRON-IN-CHIEF DR HARUHISA HANDA
GOVERNMENT PARTNERS
OPERA CONFERENCE
This production is supported by The Opera Conference, Australia’s national partnership of professional opera companies, the Australian Government through Creative Australia, its arts and funding advisory body, by the NSW Government through Create NSW, and by the Victorian Government through Creative Victoria.
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THURSDAY 8 AUGUST 10AM AND 1PM
FRIDAY 9 AUGUST 10AM AND 1PM
55 mins (including Q+A)
A Windmill Theatre Company production
GRUG Based on the much-loved picture book character created by Ted Prior.
Grug began his life as the top of a Burrawang tree that fell to the ground. Resembling a small, striped haystack with feet and a nose, Grug is fascinated by the world around him and solves everyday problems creatively and without fuss.
Director: Sam Haren Designer: Jonathon Oxlade Composer: DJ TR!P Puppet Maker & Consultant: Tamara Rewse
When dancing instructions are too difficult to understand, he invents his own dance and calls it ‘The Grug’. When snails eat his cabbages, Grug plants more cabbages so there will be enough for both him and the snails.
TICKET PRICES One Price: $29 Group/ Subscriber / Member: $25
Having performed to more than 50,000 children and families worldwide, Grug is perfect for our youngest theatre lovers.
“Windmill has again created a show in which children can wonderfully discover the magic and the fun and play in theatre.” AUSTRALIAN STAGE
Grug is a Windmill Theatre Company production. Originally produced in association with Queensland Performing Arts Centre’s Out of the Box Festival. Windmill Theatre Co is supported by the Government of South Australia and the Australian Government through Creative Australia, its arts funding and advisory body.
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Image credit: Shane Reid/Carnival Studio 33
TUESDAY 13 AUGUST 7.30PM 1 hour 15 mins (no interval)
A Moogahlin Performing Arts and Sydney Theatre Company Production
THE VISITORS By Jane Harrison Directed by Wesley Enoch
Visitors leave. Right? On a sweltering day in January 1788, seven clan leaders gather on a sandstone escarpment overlooking the harbour. The attendees, six of them Elders and one new initiate, catch-up, laugh together, share a meal and compare notes. But beyond the friendly banter, protocols, and hospitality, a momentous decision is waiting to be made.
Playwright: Jane Harrison Director: Wesley Enoch
TICKET PRICES Adult $55 Concession/Member $50 Group 4+ $50 Youth Under 25 $35 Child Under 15 $29
A mysterious fleet of giant nawi is amassing in the harbour and as they creep closer, these seven representatives must choose unanimously: whether to send these strangers on their way or welcome them?
SUBSCRIBER PRICES Adult Subscriber $50 Concession Subscriber $45 Youth Under 25 Subscriber $30
Co-produced by Moogahlin Performing Arts and Sydney Theatre Company, The Visitors is at once a riveting, deeply researched insight into one of the most impactful and painful days in Australia’s history, and a hugely entertaining study of how communities respond to change and the unknown.
Please be aware this production contains infrequent coarse language, themes of racial violence, descriptions of violence, intergenerational trauma, and theatrical haze.
“A powerful and contemplative performance that challenges the mind and moves the heart.” TIMEOUT
Indigenous Languages and Arts
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Image credit: Rob Hookey. Features cast from 2023 production. 35
TUESDAY 3 SEPTEMBER 7.30PM 1 hour (no interval)
SLAP. BANG. KISS. by Dan Giovannoni A Melbourne Theatre Company Production
SLAP. A video of 16-year-old Immi hitting a security officer goes viral. BANG. Sofia’s impassioned speech for the victims of a school shooting makes international news. KISS. In the car park of a small-town supermarket, people rally around Darby and Daniel as the boys lock lips in an attempt to set the world record for the longest kiss.
Playwright: Dan Giovannoni Director: Katy Maudlin Set & Costume Designer: Kate Davis Lighting Designer: Amelia Lever-Davidson Composer & Sound Designer: Ian Moorhead
Shortlisted for the 2021 Victorian Premier’s Literary Awards, this play is from multi-award winning playwright Dan Giovannoni.
TICKET PRICES Adult $45 Concession/Member $40 Group 4+ $40 Youth Under 25 $30
Exploring themes of activism, community and hope, SLAP. BANG. KISS. tracks three young people whose stories kickstart a series of events none of them could have anticipated, transforming them into global symbols of revolution. But when their stories go viral and the whole world is watching, what will they do next?
SUBSCRIBER PRICES Adult Subscriber $40 Concession Subscriber $35 Youth Under 25 Subscriber $25
“Snappily directed by Katy Maudlin the work races along in a gripping, always entertaining hour.” TIME OUT MELBOURNE
SLAP. BANG. KISS. was commissioned through Melbourne Theatre Company’s NEXT STAGE Writers’ Program with the support of the Playwrights Giving Circle, The Ian Potter Foundation, Naomi Milgrom Foundation, The Myer Foundation, Malcolm Robertson Foundation and The University of Melbourne.
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Image credit: Brett Walker, 2022 cast 37
MONDAY 9 SEPTEMBER 6PM
TUESDAY 10 SEPTEMBER 10AM AND 1PM
1 hour (no interval)
A Monkey Baa Theatre Company production
THE PEASANT PRINCE Based on the book by Li Cunxin, Illustrated by Anne Spudvilas Adapted for the stage by Eva Di Cesare, Sandie Eldridge and Tim McGarry
The children’s version of Li Cunxin’s iconic autobiography, Mao’s Last Dancer, The Peasant Prince is an extraordinary production of a remarkable story – of a peasant boy turned dance giant. It will inspire and enthral young audiences. Li, a 10-year old peasant boy is plucked from his village in rural China and sent to a ballet academy in the big city. He leaves everything and everyone he loves, including his family.
Playwright: Eva Di Cesare, Sandie Eldridge and Tim McGarry Director: Tim McGarry Remount Director: Egan Sun-Bin Production Designer: Michael Hankin Composer: Daryl Wallis Movement Director: Danielle Micich Remount Movement Director: Lia Reutens Lighting Designer: Sian James-Holland Author and Script Consultant: Li Cunxin
Li’s courage, resilience and unwavering hope for a better life for himself and his family makes The Peasant Prince a story to ignite our own aspirations to be the best person we can be.
TICKET PRICES
One Price $29 Group/ Subscriber / Member $25
Monkey Baa’s extraordinary production won Best Production at The Glugs and The Sydney Theatre Awards and a Drover’s Award for the Best Tour in 2016.
“It’s a vivid piece of storytelling that is skillful, theatrical and inspiring. It was a loving and honest adaptation of Li’s treasured memoir” STAGE WHISPERS
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Ages 7+
Photos by Heidrun Lohr. Photos from 2016 National tour. Feature performers, Jenevieve Chang, Jonathan Chang, John Gomez Goodway and Edric Hong. 39
THURSDAY 19 SEPTEMBER 7.30PM 1 hour (no interval)
THE DEFIANT Eight bodies emerge onto an apoplectic scene of a disused, torn down society. Together, the energy shifts: they incite a rebellion, unear thing the meaning of strength in adversity. Director & Producer: Elena Kirschbaum Lighting Designer: Sarah Platts Costume Designer: April Dawson Music Director: Rachel Trainor Cast: Dominique Cravero, Chloe Fazikas, Claire Bindoff, Charice Rust, Lucy Tan, Rachel Locks, Rachel Trainor, Shona Morgan
The Defiant is a fierce contemporary circus and movement work, performed with a live responsive soundtrack to deliver high impact visuals and sound. It is a purposeful rejection of contemporary casting: with eight women and gender-non-confirming (GNC) artists performing roles and skills traditionally seen by men, this work is a visual unpacking of audiences’ binary expectations of ‘strength’.
TICKET PRICES Adult $45 Concession/Member $40 Group 4+ $40 Youth Under 25 $30 Child Under 15 $20 Family Ticket (2A + 2C) $110
This bold world-building work has been designed and developed by an all women and GNC Australian creative team, from its high calibre production through tightly choreographed routines, stuntwork and aerials. Performed, designed, and executed with world-class and highly trained experience, this project is our most ambitious to date.
SUBSCRIBER PRICES Adult Subscriber $40 Concession Subscriber $35 Youth Under 25 Subscriber $25
“Never before has acrobatics, live music, and contemporary dance come together so perfectly!” UNIVERSITY OF ADELAIDE
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Ages 12+
Image credit: Jodie Hutchinson and Bass Fam 41
PUT TH
IN S C H O O L HO
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PLAY IT
LIDAYS T
HIS JULY!
A K E A R I S K? I T CHOICE. S A F E OR T ’S YOUR
Plunge into the world of sharks and choose your own audio adventure as you dive below the surface and come face-to-face with these majestic creatures.
Erth’s Shark Dive is an interactive theatrical experience that brings you up close and personal with the much-maligned predator of the sea, created by world-renowned puppeteers, Erth Visual & Physical Inc.
Shoals of frenzied fish flee, a stingray scatters to make way for the awesome beauty of a 4-metre great white shark in this unique underwater environment. No diving experience needed, but keep your eyes peeled and your mind open.
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Book your 40-min dive WEDNESDAY 10 JULY THURSDAY 11 JULY FRIDAY 12 JULY First session: 10am Final session: 4pm
Exclusive Members access first tickets
$29 per person, spaces limited
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SUNDOWN SESSIONS April 2024 is live music month at the Civic Theatre! Our upper foyer will be transformed into an intimate live music venue. Here are the first shows announced…. we will be adding local entertainment surprises to the line up soon. Stay up to date online.
Saturday 13 April: D’Arcy Spiller
Thursday 18 April: Emma Donovan
Friday 19 April: 19 Twenty
Saturday 20 April: Sunday Lemonade
Sunday 21 April: Tenzin Cheogyal
Saturday 27 April: Mark Wilkinson
Live Music Australia – An Australian Government Initiative
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BALCONY SESSIONS The Civic Theatre balcony is the perfect place to enjoy a word class view, a tasty cheese platter and the chilled vibes of some seriously skilled musicians. Dale Allison and Geoff Simpson from well known local band The Groove Factorie will perform with various emerging artists on the following Sunday afternoons:
Sunday 28 January at 6pm Sunday 25 February at 6pm Sunday 19 May at 6pm
TICKETS $25
Sunday 3 November at 6pm
PLUG + PLAY
Image credit: Jack of Hearts Studio
Image credit: Jack of Hearts Studio
Don’t forget about our mentoring program - Plug + Play. It is a free program for emerging professional musicians and performers. Find out more:
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Look out, laughs about! JUNE LONG WEEKEND THURSDAY 6 JUNE - MONDAY 10 JUNE
On Sale Now! Friday 7 June: Tom Gleeson, Gear
Book here
Riverina Comedy Club House, brought to you by the Riverina Comedy Club will also be back in 2024! 46
Member only Presale until March 2024 * Available until limited allocation is exhausted. ** Current paid members only.
Friday 7 June: Garry Starr, Greece Lightning
Saturday 8 June: Mel Buttle, Not Here to Put Socks on Centipedes
Sunday 9 June: Wil Anderson, WILEGITIMATE
Thursday 6 June: Accessible Arts and Crips & Creeps, Are You Pulling My Leg? 47
MUSICAL MATINEES Daytime series of concerts including a free morning tea. 11AM START
Morning tea from 10am
The Winner is… Tues 2 April The Academy Award Winning Songs 1935 -2020…. and indeed the stories behind the songs. Starring Ian Stenlake & Michelle Fitzmaurice
Piaf and Aznavour Mon 1 July
007 Shaken Not Stirred Wed 18 Sept
Embark on a journey into the fascinating world of French popular music where the real stars are the worldly famous songs of Edith Piaf & Charles Aznavour.
Celebrating the classic James Bond films, 007 Shaken Not Stirred boasts blackties, luxurious gowns, stunning performances and exhilarating dancing. Starring Karla Hillam and Jonathan Guthrie-Jones
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Tis the Season Mon 9 Dec Whether you’ve been naughty or nice, join Australia’s Cabaret sweethearts Karla Hillam and Jonathan GuthrieJones as they bring some Christmas cheer your way in Tis The Season.
Image credit: Jack of Hearts Studio
Afternoons / Evenings with the Australian Army Band Kapooka The Australian Army Band Kapooka presents a series of concerts proudly hosted by the Civic Theatre. The 2024 Season will be conducted by Major Greg Peterson.
12 NOON & 6PM WEDNESDAYS
20 March 26 June 21 August 23 October FREE COMMUNITY CONCERTS TICKETS
Group bookings in advance are welcome. Available three weeks prior to each event.
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RCM
CSU Riverina Playhouse
Station Creative Workspace
Mu rru m
Wollundry Lagoon
bi
National Art Glass Gallery
d g ee River
Civic Centre, City Library and Art Gallery
ila b i d ya B
Museum of the Riverina
Visitor Information Centre
/ M ar ra m
Civ Th ic ea tre
Entrance
Access information Wheelchair spaces are available and we can assist with other mobility issues. If you require wheelchair access or other assistance at the Wagga Wagga Civic Theatre please indicate on the booking form or inform the Box Office team at the time of your booking.
Parking is available in close proximity to the Wagga Wagga Civic Theatre. Car parks are located in Cross Street, entry via Cross Street and at the corner of Morrow and O’Reilly Streets, entry via O’Reilly Street. A carer is entitled to a free ticket when accompanying a paid Companion Card holder to the theatre.
The Civic Theatre is fitted with a hearing loop. The system is accessible via hearing aids with a telephone setting. Please note, reception quality and levels may vary according to the age and type of hearing aid.
The Civic Theatre foyer is a designated area for people to safely recharge their electric mobility scooter or wheelchair battery free of charge.
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Helping hand Contribute today
The experience of coming to the theatre can transform lives but sometimes is out of financial reach. You can help offset the cost for a young person to visit the Civic Theatre. Your gift will help with the costs of a theatre ticket, a workshop or possibly organising a bus – wherever the need is greatest. Next time you buy a ticket online – add a helping hand to your cart. Or speak with a staff member at the box office to make a difference.
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Wagga Wagga Civic Theatre is a cultural facility of Wagga Wagga City Council.