Record crowds attend the Brolga Theatre

Over 33,000 people attended performances at the Brolga Theatre in 2023 – the highest number in the theatre’s 24-year history – and 2024 is shaping up to be another huge year.

Fraser Coast Regional Councillor David Lewis said the record attendance at the Brolga Theatre and Convention Centre was fantastic, and a testament to the community’s desire for live entertainment post-COVID and the high-quality acts and programming at the theatre.

“2023 saw a total of 99 performances with highlights including the Grand Kyiv Ballet, Marcia Hines, comedians Anh Do and Luke Kidgell, as well as Shake & Stir Theatre Co’s adaptation of Roald Dahl’s The Twits, which saw over 1,500 local students experience the magic of live theatre,” he said.

“This year is shaping up to be another great year for live entertainment, with 43 performances already on sale and new shows being added frequently.

“Some of the big shows on sale now include Australian rock legends Ian Moss and James Reyne, the Queensland Ballet, comedy hypnotist Andy Vening, a night of magic with Spellbound, and Shake & Stir’s Fourteen.”

Cr Lewis said the Brolga Theatre & Convention Centre was the entertainment heart of the region, regularly hosting national and international performers, award dinners, school formals, expos, trade shows and conferences both large and small.

“Over 27,000 people attended 272 different corporate events at the venue in 2023,” he said.

“These terrific numbers would not be possible without the hardworking Brolga team and their wonderful volunteer assistants.

“Around 80 volunteers currently help with the day-to-day running of the theatre in various roles, from greeters and door ushers, to box office, bar and café assistants.

“Volunteering at the Brolga Theatre is a wonderful way to give back to the community and has tremendous benefits for the volunteers, from social events to getting to experience a wide variety of shows and events.

“The theatre is currently seeking expressions of interest from anyone interested in joining their team of volunteers in 2024, which can be made online at brolgatheatre.org or by calling the box office to find out more.”

Cr Lewis encouraged Fraser Coast residents to sign up for the Brolga’s email newsletters to be the first to know about upcoming shows and to access exclusive offers and pre-sale periods.

“You can register for the eNewsletter on the Brolga Theatre’s website – brolgatheatre.org – and you can also become a Friend of the Brolga for a low membership fee, which entitles you to discounted tickets to most performances,” he said.

Tickets, gift vouchers and Friends of the Brolga memberships can be purchased online at brolgatheare.org, by phoning 4122 6060 or in person at the Box office between 8.30am and 4pm Monday to Friday.