Frommer's Australia from $50 a Day 13th Edition - To Parent Directory

BRISBANE AFTER DARK 241
THEATER
Brisbane Powerhouse–Centre for the Live Arts A former electricity
powerhouse, this massive brick factory is now a dynamic new art space for contemporary
(some might say fringe) exhibitions, performance, and live art. The
building retains its unique character, an industrial mix of metal, glass, and stark
surfaces etched with 20 years of graffiti. It’s a short walk from the New Farm
ferry terminal along the riverfront through New Farm Park. 119 Lamington St., New
Farm. & 07/3358 8600 or www.brisbanepowerhouse.org. Ticket prices vary from free or a donation
to A$100 (US$65) or more.
La Boite Theatre (www.laboite.com.au) is a well-established innovative
company which performs contemporary all-Australian plays in-the-round. In
late 2003, La Boite moved to a new 400-seat theatre in Brisbane’s new Cultural
Industries Precinct still being constructed at Kelvin Grove as we went to print.
Check the website for address and phone details. Tickets for the 2003 season
were around A$30 (US$20), previews A$25 (US$16).
Queensland Theatre Company, the state theater company, offers eight or
nine productions a year, from the classics to premiere Australian works, attracting
some of the country’s best actors and directors. Performing at Optus Playhouse and
Cremorne Theatres at the Queensland Performing Arts Complex (QPAC), South Bank. & 07/3840
7000 administration www.qldtheatreco.com.au. Tickets A$17 (if you are age 24 or under) to A$50
(US$11–US$33).
CLASSICAL MUSIC
The Brisbane City Council (& 07/3403 8888) sponsors free lunchtime concerts
in City Hall most Thursdays, and sometimes on other days, too, usually
from 12:30 to 1:30pm. Performers range from classical to percussion/folk fusion
to military bands.
The Queensland Orchestra Provides classical music lovers with a diverse
mix of orchestral and chamber music, with the odd foray into fun material, such
as Cole Porter hits and gospel music; the orchestra presents about 30 concerts a
year. Free talks are given in the foyer 1 hour before all major performances. The
occasional “Tea and Symphony” concerts at City Hall include tea and coffee. Performing
at the Concert Hall in the Queensland Performing Arts Complex (QPAC), City Hall, and
intimate works at its studios at 53 Ferry Rd., West End. & 07/3377 5000 for administration. Tickets
A$35–A$50 (US$23–US$33); less if you are a full-time student or under age 26.
OPERA
Opera Queensland The state company performs a lively repertoire of traditional
opera as well as modern works, musicals, and choral concerts. Free talks
on the opera you are about to see start in the foyer 45 minutes before every performance,
and free close-up tours of the set are held after every performance
(except the final night). Lyric Theatre at the Queensland Performing Arts Complex (QPAC).
& 07/3875 3030 for administration. Tickets A$33–A$118 (US$21–US$77), or A$37 (US$24) at
some performances if you’re age 30 or under.
THE CLUB & MUSIC SCENE
NIGHTCLUBS
Downunder Bar In the basement of the Palace Backpackers, this is Brisbane’s
only dedicated backpacker and university student party bar open every night, so
it’s packed every night. There are nightly specials and giveaways, and the emphasis
is on fun. Open Monday through Friday noon to 3am, and Saturday and Sunday
5pm to 3am. Palace Backpackers, corner Ann and Edward sts. & 07/3211 2433. No cover.