Brisbane Festival 2021

Overview

The days are getting brighter and the nights are getting warmer which means that winter is on its way out. And this skip toward spring is filled with added anticipation and excitement for Brisbane locals as the city prepares for the return of its much-loved annual arts celebration: Brisbane Festival.

If you want to emerge from your winter hibernation with a bang, Brisbane Festival has you covered. From Friday, September 3–Saturday, September 25, the city will be reignited with colour, light, art and music in a three-week celebration of all things that are 'Brightly Brisbane'.

This year's program features premiere productions, award-winning performances and takeovers of unexpected spaces with a combination of free and ticketed events to enjoy. To catch something complimentary, head to West Village anytime during the festival to see it illuminated by large botanical creations courtesy of Australian artist Amanda Parer. Or, keep your eyes peeled for the return of the Gouldian Finches that'll be landing atop iconic Brisbane landmarks once again.

Want to see a world premiere? Check out the stage adaptation of Trent Dalton's novel Boy Swallows Universe which will hit the stage at QPAC, or head to Metro Arts to catch a wold first in This Ain't No Pussy Show. More of a music fan? Grab tickets to see Sheppard or local faves WAAX at Valley institution The Tivoli. Other must-sees include Ishmael, which sees Dead Puppet Society turn Moby Dick into a post-apocalyptic space saga and Let's Be Friends Furever, a community-sourced ode to dogs of all shapes and sizes. There's also Polytoxic's new and explosive show Demolition at Brisbane Powerhouse and jazzy drag party Razzle Dazzle Riot at South Bank Piazza. Plus, you can attend Woolloongabba's revamped Princess Theatre.

Bris Fest's suburban Street Serenades series is returning, too — with the likes of Beddy Rays, Cheap Fakes and the Queensland Ballet doing shows all over the city. Family favourite Riverfire is back as well to close out the festival on September 25.

Brisbane Festival will run from Friday, September 3—Saturday, September 25. For further details and to book, head to the festival's website. And if you're wondering what happens if lockdown pays us another visit, don't fret, as Brisbane Festival will provide quick and easy refunds to all ticket holders.