Geelong Arts Centre Opens the Door to a Bigger, Bolder Season
Geelong Arts Centre is open, active and prepared for a standout year. On 26 November 2025, the centre revealed season 2026, a program shaped around world premieres, Victorian exclusives and stories that open new perspectives. As a result, audiences can expect a lively calendar filled with memorable nights out in the heart of Geelong.
The new season builds on the momentum of 2025. The centre will present more than 32 shows across 86 performances. In addition, it will continue offering theatre, live music, dance, comedy and family entertainment. Each part of the season aims to bring people together and highlight the region’s creative talent.
Women’s stories appear throughout the program. For example, Sydney Theatre Company’s RBG: Of Many, One explores the strength of Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Meanwhile, Amplified: The Exquisite Rock and Rage of Chrissy Amphlett celebrates the iconic Divinyls frontwoman and her Geelong roots. These productions honour powerful voices and spotlight the resilience of remarkable women.
Several major premieres strengthen the season’s direction. Suzie Miller’s Strong is the New Pretty makes its Victorian debut and focuses on the rise of women’s footy. Furthermore, Noni Hazlehurst leads Daniel Keene’s The Lark, a solo piece centred on memory and change. Alison Whyte appears in Melbourne Theatre Company’s new version of The Glass Menagerie. ILBIJERRI Theatre Company presents Gunawarra Re-creation, directed by Rachael Maza, which honours Taungurung stories and acknowledges the strength of Black women.
REWIRE Delivers Bold and Unexpected Experiences
REWIRE returns with daring and unconventional work. Connor Morel’s musical Good Man explores masculinity and meeting your father for the first time. In addition, Karma Dance Inc. brings the visually striking Temple of Desire. Back to Back Theatre introduces a world premiere titled I Am in a Parasocial Relationship with Britney Spears, continuing the company’s global reputation for boundary-pushing ideas.
The program continues with Gillian Cosgriff’s musical theatre sharpness. Joel Bray’s Swallow blends storytelling and movement in a fresh way. Meanwhile, re: group performance collective delivers a cinematic live experience designed to shift audience expectations. Together, these works encourage reflection, conversation and curiosity.
Daytime Highlights and Family Adventures
The Delightful Days & Matinees series offers warm, uplifting performances. For example, audiences can enjoy Heart & Music with Simon Gleeson and Natalie O’Donnell. Denis Walter shares his favourite songs, James Bond Classics brings nostalgic cinematic themes, and Bernadette Robinson shines in They Sang at Carnegie Hall. Each daytime experience provides accessible, feel-good entertainment.
Families can explore the Family Magic program, packed with imaginative productions. Titles such as Robot Song, Where is the Green Sheep?, Moss Piglet, Alphabet of Awesome Science, Room on the Broom and Wolfgang in the Stars offer creative escapes for children and their grown-ups. In addition, the popular Geelong Wonder Children’s Festival returns to fill Little Malop Street with colour, play and discovery.
Leadership Shares Their Vision
CEO and Creative Director Rhys Holden said:
“You can really feel the energy building across Geelong right now. Our stages have never been busier, our audiences are growing, and we’re seeing more and more artists wanting to develop or premiere their work here.”
He continued:
“Next year, we see Geelong stepping into its next chapter as a cultural leader – a place where world-class art and everyday life meet. From world premieres to Victorian exclusives, SEASON 2026 speaks directly to the bold, creative, vibrant and deeply connected community we’re proud to serve.”
Minister for Creative Industries, Colin Brooks, said:
“It’s fantastic to see the Labor Government’s $180 million infrastructure investment come to life, with a season packed with shows and creative opportunities for all tastes and ages – all to be experienced in what is one of the very best performing arts venues in the country.”
Membership and a Growing Cultural Legacy
Membership remains the best way to experience the entire season. It offers early access, additional savings and a deeper connection with the community. Furthermore, it continues to be the simplest method for staying updated as new events and opportunities appear.
Geelong Arts Centre has been a cultural anchor since 1981. After its 2023 redevelopment, it became Australia’s largest dedicated regional performing arts complex. Today, more than 590,000 people visit annually. They attend theatre, comedy, music, dance, festivals and creative learning programs. In addition, the centre commissions and co-produces new work that supports Australian artists at all stages of their careers.
Event Details for SEASON 2026
Website: geelongartscentre.org.au
Season includes: Premieres, exclusives, theatre, dance, comedy, family shows, live music and REWIRE