Queensland Theatre 2025 Season

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Thu 20 Feb 2025 - Sun 07 Dec 2025

It’s the Best Time to Subscribe, ‘For the Love of Theatre’


Queensland Theatre has local fans of live performance abuzz at the announcement of the shows planned for the 2025 season, entitled For the Love of Theatre. It’s quite an eclectic mix with something for everyone, even people who have never been to the theatre before now. You’ve got a reimagined classic, a Hollywood blockbuster, a beloved Broadway musical, a political dramady, a rom com with big names in the writer’s chair and the leading roles, a premier’s play award winner, and of course, some heartwarming homegrown realism.

One thing is for certain, there are some massive shows on the list that are sure to book out. That means now is the best time to subscribe to Queensland Theatre, so you’ve got the greatest chance of nabbing the prime seats in the house. Read on for a closer look at the season lineup or jump to the end of the article for more information about subscriptions.


20 February – 9 March Pride and Prejudice

Adapted by Wendy Mocke and Lewis Treston
Directed by Bridget Boyle and Daniel Evans

Queensland Theatre calls it A sumptuous theatrical ode to the mother of romantic comedies.

Pride & Prejudice has long been regarded as one of the greatest love stories ever written. It’s one of the best examples of romantic comedy in literature. 2025 marks the 250th year since Jane Austen’s birth, so it’s an ideal time for her beloved novel to come to life on stage in a fresh retelling with a stellar all-Queensland cast.

In case you’re one of the few who don’t know the story, I’ll fill you in. The tale is set against the backdrop of English Regency-era balls, gossip, and the stifling hypocrisy of the 19th-century. The main character, Elizabeth Bennet is sharp, witty, and fearless. In a time when women are expected to be quiet and submissive, she stands out as a fiercely independent young woman. She loves to have a laugh and live life ‘out loud’ and isn’t shy about making her opinions heard.

While her sisters and mother are obsessed with finding wealthy husbands for the unmarried Bennet girls, Elizabeth dreams of controlling her own destiny when it comes to love. When she crosses paths with the proud and aloof, yet undeniably eligible Mr. Darcy, her life is turned upside down. It’s the classic love/hate at first sight tale where each challenges the other to be better people. Though they seem at odds, the two share more in common than either would like to admit.

In this captivating stage adaptation by Patrick White Award winners Wendy Mocke and Lewis Treston, Austen’s sharp wit and unforgettable characters will come alive. It promises to be a vibrant reimagining of the novel that shaped the romantic comedy genre.

Why I’m excited about Pride and Prejudice

I can’t think of better directors for this play than Bridget Boyle and Daniel Evans. They are some of Brisbane’s best when it comes to finding the comedy and the heart in a play. I think this is going to be absolutely hilarious and the adaptation is likely to give us some fresh perspectives on the story.


22 March – 17 April Calamity Jane

Adapted by Ronald Hanmer and Phil Park
From the stage play by Charles K. Freeman after Warner Bros. film written by James O’Hanlon
Lyrics by Paul Francis Webster
Music by Sammy Fain
By arrangement with Music Theatre International (Australasia)
Directed by Richard Carroll

Queensland Theatre calls it The raucous revival that celebrates the wildest woman in the Wild West.

In March, Queensland Theatre invites you to literally step into the wild town of Deadwood, to meet Calamity Jane. The entire Bille Brown Theatre will be transformed into a Wild West saloon for this production. You will be able to grab a seat at one of the on-stage saloon tables and feel like you’re part of the action with Jane’s piano-playing posse.

In this story, peace officers Calamity Jane and Wild Bill Hickok, step in to save Deadwood City saloon operator Henry Miller when his scheme to promote an actress, Frances Fryer, goes wrong. To calm the angry miners, the sharp-shooting, whip-cracking Calamity Jane heads to Chicago to bring back their favourite performer, Adelaide Adams. However, she mistakenly brings back Adelaide’s maid, Katie Brown. Onstage, Katie confesses she's not the star, but Calamity convinces the angry mob to give her a chance.

Cabaret dynamo Naomi Price (Drizzle Boy, Ladies in Black) takes on the iconic role of Jane in this rollicking, unpredictable adventure. You can expect all your favourite songs, from Secret Love to The Black Hills of Dakota. But this is no Doris Day version! The reimagined production ditches the polished buckskin for a raw, gritty take on the beloved musical.

Why I’m excited about Calamity Jane

Naomi Price is always dazzling and a joy to watch. She’s a warm, charismatic, and engaging live performer and her singing voice is stellar. I also love the concept of turning the Bille Brown Theatre into a saloon and having the audience experience the action up close.


28 May – 21 June Rhinestone Rex and Miss Monica

Written by David Williamson
Directed by Mark Kilmurry

Queensland Theatre says Two screen stars reunite in a Williamson firecracker.

Can musical differences be the food of love? This play aims to find out! Opposites have never clashed quite like Gary and Monica in this comedic gem from nationally acclaimed playwright David Williamson (Don’s Party, Family Values). Speaking of national acclaim, this production stars Glenn Hazeldine (Colin From Accounts) as Gary and double Gold Logie-winner Georgie Parker (Home and Away) in the role of Monica.

Theatregoers who are familiar with Williamson’s work may be surprised to hear this play isn’t politically charged. Instead, he’s treating us to a rom-com in which Monica, a cultured, city-loving former violinist, hires Gary, a no-nonsense tradie, to renovate her kitchen. What starts as a battle of banter turns into something more heated when their arguments shift to music. Monica worships classical composer Mahler, while Gary, a former Country and Western singer turned DJ Rhinestone Rex, couldn’t be more different. Yet, despite the constant quarrelling, they discover a harmony they never expected.

Why I’m excited about Rhinestone Rex and Miss Monica

It will be interesting to see a Williamson play that doesn't really have a political bent, and that is more focused on joy, humour, romance and the frisson that occurs at the start of a relationship. The acting is sure to be top-notch as well.


28 June – 19 July Dear Son

Based on the book by Thomas Mayo
Adapted by Isaac Drandic and John Harvey
Directed by Isaac Drandic

Queensland Theatre calls it A hand-penned message of affection, togetherness and joy for our First Nations' future.

In Dear Son, author and Torres Strait Islander man Thomas Mayo brings together heartfelt letters written by 12 Indigenous men to their sons, fathers, and nephews, offering a tender reflection on love, family, and identity. These deeply personal letters, written by the likes of Stan Grant, Troy Cassar-Daley, and Johnny Liddle, have been adapted for the stage by First Nations theatre makers Isaac Drandic and John Harvey. The world premiere will feature leading actors Jimi Bani (Othello, My Name Is Jimi) and Trevor Jamieson (The Secret River, Storm Boy).

Through story and song, Dear Son will celebrate the wisdom of fathers passed down through generations while confronting the challenges First Nations men face. It’s sure to be a powerful tribute to the strength of family, culture, and spirit.

Why I’m excited about Dear Son

Isaac Drandic delivered such an amazing piece of theatre in 2024 in the form of Dear Brother. It was an experience that, as a theatregoer, felt deeply spiritual as well as entertaining. I loved the mix of movement, music, and storytelling so I expect big things from this production.


16 – 30 August Julia

A Sydney Theatre Company and Canberra Theatre Centre production
Written by Joanna Murray-Smith
Directed by Sarah Goodes

Queensland Theatre says Not Now, Not Ever.

In 2012, Julia Gillard delivered a speech that would echo around the world as a precursor to the #metoo movement. To this day, young women can quote every word uttered by Gillard as she stood in Parliament and declared, "I will not be lectured about sexism and misogyny by this man." Over a decade after Gillard uttered those iconic words, playwright Joanna Murray-Smith has brought the human story behind that moment to the stage.

Directed by award-winner Sarah Goodes and starring Justine Clarke, Julia will take audiences on a journey through key moments in Gillard’s life, culminating in a stunning reenactment of her famous 'misogyny speech.' The powerhouse performance by Clarke promises to be electrifying. As the fight for gender equality continues globally, Julia is a rousing call to action that explores power, privilege, and the resilience of women.

Why I’m excited about Julia

Joanna Murray-Smith is a genuine, insightful, and clever writer and Justine Clarke is a great actress. This show has already been getting great reviews and selling out seasons everywhere it plays.


1 – 13 September Back to Bilo

A Belloo Creative production
Written by Katherine Lyall-Watson
Directed by Caroline Dunphy

Queensland Theatre calls it A true-life testimony to people power and persistence.

You are most likely familiar with the emotional rollercoaster of a story of the refugee family from Biloela that played out before our eyes on the news. Priya and Nades, a young couple who fled Sri Lanka, found safety and happiness in regional Queensland with their two daughters. But four years later, their peaceful life was shattered when they were taken from their home in a dawn raid. Yet, their story didn’t end there. The people of Biloela, a tight-knit country town, banded together in an extraordinary grassroots movement to fight for the family’s return.

Back to Bilo tells this inspiring true story of community, love, and resistance against the harsh realities of immigration detention. Created by Belloo Creative (Boy, Lost), this moving new play highlights the power of solidarity and the determination to overcome injustice.

Why I’m excited about Back to Bilo

Two words: Belloo Creative. Okay more words to explain further. I thoroughly enjoy the work of playwright Katherine Lyall-Watson, and I think she will create a beautiful and thoughtful script. Caroline Dunphy is a director who really helps you empathise with the characters, and I think that will be vital to this play’s success.


18 October – 1 November Malacañang Made Us

Written by Jordan Shea
Directed by Kenneth Moraleda

Queensland Theatre says it’s about The fall of a dictator and the reverberations on the generation he jeopardised.

Malacañang Made Us is the Queensland Premier’s Drama Award winner, written by Jordan Shea. It draws on his multicultural experiences and celebrates the bravery and power of everyday people. Malacañang Made Us is going to be an epic theatrical experience that captures the spirit of revolution and the fight for justice.

In 1986, the Philippines witnessed the fall of President Ferdinand Marcos. This play involves two brothers, Martin and Ernie, who found themselves at the heart of the revolution, storming the Malacañang Palace. They were heroes—if only for that fleeting moment. Fast forward nearly 40 years, and the brothers are reunited in Brisbane, Australia. Martin’s son Leo is outraged by the return to power of the Marcos dynasty, and he engages in online activism against them. That’s when old wounds and family secrets resurface in this powerful play that explores the cost of rebellion, loyalty, and love.

Why I’m excited about Malacañang Made Us

While I know a little about the fall of Marcos, I expect to learn a lot more about the story from this play. I don’t expect it to be too fraught and serious though, as writer Jordan Shea was so engaging and hilarious at the season launch, I expect to see a lot of that personality in the script.


22 November – 7 December A Few Good Men

Written by Aaron Sorkin
Directed by Daniel Evans

Queensland Theatre says Aaron Sorkin’s cinematic smash returns to the stage.

Did you know, before it became a Hollywood hit, Aaron Sorkin's gripping legal drama A Few Good Men was a smash hit on Broadway? Now it's coming to QPAC to celebrate its 40th anniversary and no doubt deliver a smash hit of a show for Brisbane audiences.

Set in 1986 at Guantanamo Bay, the story follows a team of young military lawyers as they uncover a sinister conspiracy after the death of one Marine and the accusation of two others. Packed with Sorkin’s signature rapid-fire dialogue, the play examines the dark side of military loyalty and the cost of unquestioning obedience.

Under the direction of award-winning Daniel Evans, rising stars join seasoned stage legends in this tense courtroom drama that asks: can you handle the truth?

Why I’m excited about A Few Good Men

I know a lot of people will know the story from seeing the film. I actually think this will work even better as a play than it does as a movie. I expect director Daniel Evans will ensure the cast really nails that rapid-fire Sorkin dialogue too.


For the Love of Theatre

As Criena Gehrke, Daniel Evans, Fiona MacDonald, and Isaac Drandic say in their introduction to the season program, “We love theatre that takes us to faraway places and returns us to everyday life — a little bit different or, maybe, a lot changed. We love that theatre can speak to every single one of us in all of our diverse, messy and magnificent humanness.”

“We love that in a theatre we can sit alone, but together, in a darkened space and when the house lights rise at the end, the experience will exist only in our collective memory; a captured moment in time — full of magic and impossible to replicate. We love that you have to be there.”

“Season 2025 is a theatrical love letter from us to you.”

Queensland Theatre 2025 Subscriptions

If you like the sound of value for money and being first on the list to score tickets to the shows on this list, grab a subscription! You can build your package to suit your needs and your budget. Choose from an 8, 6, 5 or 3-play package, you can select whether you’ll want to see previews, or view shows during the week or on weekends, and you can choose to access Auslan and Audio Described packages too.

Subscribe online here
Or over the phone 1800 355 528 (Mon-Fri, 9.30am-5pm)

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Images are courtesy of Queensland Theatre