If you’ve never been to a performance, or you’re new to Brisbane’s theatres and concert halls - there’s no need to be worried. Brisbane’s performing arts scene is very relaxed and welcoming. There is no strict formality and there’s something to appeal to every taste in music, theatre, dance and comedy. And to make life easy, we've brought it all together in our Performing Arts Guide.
Here are a few tips for making the most of your night out.
Mobile phones
Audiences and performers do not appreciate having the show interrupted by a mobile phone. Watch out if you are at a comedy show because you could become fodder for the next joke. Even a vibrating phone can cause a disturbance. And if you do get a call, definitely do not answer it and start talking.
Top tip: Turn off your mobile phone! Check that it’s turned off before any performance.
Food and drink
In most theatres, you can’t take food or drinks inside. The standards are probably a little more strict than you might find at the movies, so munching on a packet of chips or slurping on a soft drink is usually frowned upon. However, many shows have an interval when you can buy refreshments. The Judith Wright Centre is unique in that it does offer some performances with cabaret seating – which means you and a group of friends can book a table and enjoy drinks during the show.
Another option is to buy a combined dinner and show package that may be available at QPAC.
Our dining guide lets you search by suburb, restaurant type or name and you’re sure to find somewhere great to enjoy a pre-show or post-show bite and drink.
Top tip: order your drinks for interval before the performance and they’ll be waiting for you at the break. Otherwise there can be long lines for the bar.
During a performance
Going to a live performance is generally more formal than going to the movies or to see a sporting match.
A couple of basic points include:
- Don’t talk during the show. Even constant whispering can annoy others.
- Try not to fidget, scratch, hum, or cough constantly.
- Read the program before the show or during interval.
If you are new to attending performances such as opera or orchestral music, just follow the lead of others to know when it is appropriate to clap.
La Boite Theatre Company gives some guidelines about theatre etiquette. It is geared towards school groups but is useful for anyone new to the theatre.
Top tip: Take your cues from the audience about expected behaviour.
Outdoor performances
If you want a more casual performing arts experience, you may like the open-air shows. You can usually pack a picnic and sit outside while enjoying high quality music or arts. Throughout the year there are theatre performances in parks, concerts in the amphitheatre and even opera or orchestral shows outside.
Top tip: Check whether you are allowed to take glass or alcohol to the outdoor venue. Sometimes it’s not allowed.
Seating
"Unreserved seating" means that you aren’t allocated a specific seat with your ticket. Instead, you just grab a seat when you turn up. This is what happens at the Roundhouse Theatre and some Powerhouse performances so make sure you arrive in plenty of time for these venues.
Most of the bigger productions, for example at QPAC, will have allocated seating and your seat row and number will be printed on the ticket. Buy your tickets as early as you can for great seats. Often tickets can be available months in advance and you can check the seating plans online at QTIX .
Top tip: sitting in the very front row isn’t always the best. Try to get seats for at least a few rows back to get a clear view of the stage and good sound quality.
Dress standards
Most Brisbane theatres don’t have strict dress codes. You don’t have to wear a suit or tuxedo to performances and jeans are acceptable at most venues. Yes, for some, getting out and about is a big deal and they dress to impress. But it’s not required so aim for ‘smart casual’ and you’ll be fine.
Top tip: it can be cold in theatres with air-conditioning. Wear clothes with sleeves or take a jacket or wrap.
Subscriptions
Many of Brisbane’s arts organisations offer subscription packages. Some have the flexibility of letting you choose the number and dates of performances. The benefits include discounted tickets, preferential seating and occasional other perks such as meeting the performers or getting regular newsletters and reciprocal discounts.
Take a look at the various types of subscriptions available from:
- La Boite Theatre Company
- Opera Queensland
- Queensland Theatre Company
- Queensland Ballet
- The Queensland Orchestra
Top tip: most subscriptions run for the calendar year and programs are released early in each year.
Single tickets
Can’t find a friend to join you at a show? Don’t let that stop you enjoying the performing arts.
Use the AdmitONE service offered by QPAC. You join a group of other single patrons to enjoy a drink, great seats and conversation about performances. Of course, all theatres accept single bookings too and you’ll find Brisbane arts-goers are a friendly lot.
Top tip: Don’t be shy!
Transport
Find public transport details here to get to any performance (just enter the address of the venue you want to go to).
Allow enough time to park the car or walk from public transport. If you are going to an event at QPAC, you can pre-book your parking with your tickets. This service means there is a carspace for you and no need to fuss with money on the night. Be sure to arrive with plenty of time to secure a park, grab your tickets from the box office and take your seats. The last thing you want is to be madly rushing around, searching for a car park, only to arrive after the doors have closed and then having to sneak in (if you’re lucky...) with the aid of an usher.
Top tip: Always allow plenty of time for travel.
