Event Image
Comedy

Kitty Flanagan Live

THURSDAY 13 FEBRUARY, 8PM

A-List Entertainment presents: Kitty Flanagan LIVE

This performance is currently sold out. If you would like to be added to her waiting list - scroll to the seating plan below to click on the 'Back to Event' button which will take you to where you can add your interest. Or, you can contact the box office on 03 5573 0429

You’ve seen her on Fisk, Utopia and Have You Been Paying Attention? She also wrote the best-selling book, 488 Rules for Life and has won back to back silver Logies for Fisk, but now it’s time for Kitty to get back where she belongs. On the stage, doing stand-up. 

Kitty Flanagan Live is her hit show full of hard laughs, good times, handy hints and a catchy little tune about underpants.

For more information about Kitty Flanagan:

More Info

Access & Inclusion: This is an accessible and inclusive event taking place on Gunditjmara Country. If you need assistance at the venue, please let us know when booking your ticket or contact us directly.

Tickets:
Adult $69.90
Concession $69.90
Seniors $69.90

Location Hamilton Performing Arts Centre

subvenue The Handbury Auditorium

Event Image
Music

Don't Shoot Me I'm Only The Piano Player

FRIDAY 14 FEBRUARY, 11AM

David Scheel & HPAC Present: Don't Shoot Me I'm Only The Piano Player

A show that's been a runaway success in London’s West End, at successive Edinburgh Festivals, at the Melbourne Comedy Festival and right across the USA, this is a hilarious send-up of classical music, which has established Australian pianist, David Scheel, as the successor to the legendary Victor Borge.

Beautiful music, and musical fun performed in so many accents/voices that David has also been compared to the late Robin Williams and Peter Ustinov.

Come along to hear a familiar tune played in the styles of the old masters + an i-Pod; two famous pieces played simultaneously, one with the right hand, one with the left, plus his “translation” of the lyrics of Waltzing Matilda, already a comedy classic.

Piano playing as you've probably never heard it before!

Meet up with your friends for a cuppa before the show.

Access & Inclusion: This is an accessible and inclusive event taking place on Gunditjmara Country. If you need assistance at the venue, please let us know when booking your ticket or contact us directly.

Tickets:
Adult $30
Senior $25
Concession $20
Student $15
Groups 6+ $20

Location Hamilton Performing Arts Centre

subvenue The Handbury Auditorium

Event Image
Comedy, Stand Up, Family

Anh Do - The Happiest Refugee Live!

THURSDAY 20 MARCH - 7:30PM

A-List Entertainment presents: Anh Do - The Happiest Refugee Live!

Anh Do’s bestselling book The Happiest Refugee has made readers laugh and cry, and was described by Russell Crowe as 'the most surprising and inspiring read I have had in years.'

Anh’s stage show takes it a step further, combining stand-up comedy with real life stories, photos and filmed pieces to retell his amazing story.

When one of Australia’s most talented comedians delves deep into his own life’s joys and sorrows, the result is an unforgettable night at the theatre that leaves an audience uplifted and quite simply experiencing... happiness.

For more information:

Alist.com.au

Anhdo.com

REVIEWS ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'Irrepressible good humour, infectious energy and bright optimism' The Sydney Morning Herald

'The happiest audience experience I have ever had' …ArtsHub

'Two thumbs, five stars, show of the season' The Music

Sneak Peek

Australian comedian Joel Ozborn will support Anh in Hamilton.

Note: Restricted 7+, no babes in arms permitted to this performance.

Access & Inclusion: This is an accessible and inclusive event taking place on Gunditjmara Country. If you need assistance at the venue, please let us know when booking your ticket or contact us directly. 

Tickets:
Adult $69.90
Seniors $64.90
Concession $64.90
Student/Under 17 $64.90
Groups 10+ $64.90 each

Location Hamilton Performing Arts Centre

subvenue The Handbury Auditorium

Event Image
Folk, Music

Melbourne Celtic Festival

WEDNESDAY 26 MARCH, 7.30PM

Promac Productions and HPAC present: Melbourne Celtic Festival

Join us for an unforgettable production featuring the best of Celtic music with Australian Folk Band of the Year Winners - Austral, international sensation and, special guest artist Chloe Matharu direct from Scotland and traditional Irish trio Bhan Tre. 

Austral who are renowned for their vibrant energy and spirited rhythms, brings their unique blend of contemporary and traditional Celtic music to the stage. They supply the festival vibe to get everyone on their feet. 

Chloe Matharu, 27 year old singer-songwriter and harpist graces the stage with her enchanting voice and mesmerizing harp skills. Chloe will perform songs from her award-winning debut album Small Voyages and her newly released follow up album Sailors and Rolling Stones. Both albums are inspired by her life and experiences as a Seafarer on the high seas. 

Traditional Irish trio Bhan Tre will take you to the heart of Ireland with their authentic renditions of beloved Irish songs and new tunes. Their close harmonies, humour and toe-tapping music captures the true essence of Irish tradition. 

Melbourne Celtic Festival ON TOUR brings the best Craic in Australia, promising a performance of unbridled joy, music, and celebration that you won't want to miss! 

Sneak Peek

REVIEWS ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Chloe Matharu has a voice with the purity of a folk classic.” The Herald Scotland 

“Her music is truly haunting.” BBC Scotland 

“Austral deserves their place in the Irish musical Diaspora and this recording (Thylacine) promises great things to come from the land down under.” Irish Music Magazine 

“They light a room up, if you ever get a chance to be in the presence of this band, do it... it’s a party!” Blarney Pilgrim’s Podcast

For more information:

Austral

Chloe Matharu

Warning: Hazer & Flashing Lights may be used

Access & Inclusion: This is an accessible and inclusive event taking place on Gunditjmara Country. If you need assistance at the venue, please let us know when booking your ticket or contact us directly.

Tickets:
Adult $50
Seniors $45
Concession $40
Student $25
Groups 6+ $30

Location Hamilton Performing Arts Centre

subvenue The Handbury Auditorium

Event Image
Children

Josephine Wants To Dance

SATURDAY 29 MARCH, 10.30am

HPAC Presents A Monkey Baa Theatre Company Production:
Josephine Wants To Dance
Based on the book by Jackie French and Bruce Whatley
Illustrated by Bruce Whatley
Adapted by Eva Di Cesare, Sandie Eldridge and Tim McGarry

She's bold. She's bouncy. She's back!

A hilarious musical about the importance of believing in yourself and realising your dreams and... a dancing kangaroo!

Based on the picture book by Jackie French and Bruce Whatley, this delightful musical is a must see!

Josephine is a kangaroo who loves to dance. Her little brother, Joey, tells her kangaroos don't dance, they hop - but Josephine continues to point her toes and leap through the air. When a ballet troupe comes to the sleepy town of Shaggy Gully, Josephine desperately wants to dance like the ballerinas in pink tutus and silk ballet shoes.

On the day of the first performance the Ballet Company is in trouble. The prima ballerina twists her ankle and the understudy has a splinter in her toe. Who can dance the lead role? Josephine's talents are called upon to help save the day. Can she do it, and more importantly, does it matter that she's a kangaroo?

CREATIVE TEAM BILLING
Adaptors - Eva Di Cesare, Sandie Eldridge and Tim McGarry
Director - Jonathan Biggins
Composer/Lyricist - Phil Scott
Choreographer - Tim Harbour
Set & Costume Designer - James Browne
Lighting Designer - Emma Lockhart-Wilson
Sound Designer - David Bergman
Musical Director - Michael Tyack
Remount Lighting Designer - Veronique Bennett
Costume Cutter - Marianne Close

CAST BILLING
Lily Baulderstone, Nina Carmen, Hannah Gwatkin, Callum Slater, Georgia Unsworth (understudy)

REVIEWS ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“A complete delight.” - Jo Litson, Daily Telegraph

"If you have children to take, then, take them. If you don't, still go. Don't be shy. Just, go, go, go.” - Kevin Jackson Theatre Diaries

"Wonderfully whimsical and utterly inspiring...a must see for anyone with a sense of wonder.” - Jade Kops, Broadway World

A special schools performance will be held on Friday 28 March at 1.30pm.

To make a school booking: ph: 5573 0429 or email: Email Booking
Or, to book your school students in please complete and submit your booking form -
School Booking Form

Warning: Hazer will be in use

Access & Inclusion: This is an accessible and inclusive event taking place on Gunditjmara Country. If you need assistance at the venue, please let us know when booking your ticket or contact us directly.

Tickets:
Adult $25
Child (under 13yr) $64
Student $15
Groups 4+ $15.50

Location Hamilton Performing Arts Centre

subvenue The Handbury Auditorium

Event Image
Country, Music

The Roy Orbison Story

SATURDAY 5 APRIL, 7.30PM

Focal Point Australia presents: The Roy Orbison Story

Experience the wonder of Roy Orbison in this brilliant theatrical portrayal of the man, his music, his voice & his life.

You will find yourself believing you are in his presence, transported back in time, reliving the emotion of each of his songs & the stories of his life. Listen to all his hits:

Only The Lonely, Running Scared, Sweet Dream Baby, Anything You Want, Candy Man, Blue Bayou, In Dreams, Crying, Workin’ For The Man, Penny Arcade and of course, Pretty Woman. There’s so many more we can’t list them all!

Mark Shelley is simply brilliant in his characterisation of Roy. He not only has the vocal range & tone to honour his songs, he also has the sensitivity & artistic ability to ‘be’ Roy.

Without doubt, this is the definitive portrayal of Roy Orbison - the man, his music & his life.

Sneak Peek

Access & Inclusion: This is a COVIDsafe, accessible and inclusive event taking place on Gunditjmara Country. If you need assistance at the venue, please let us know when booking your ticket or contact us directly. 

 
Tickets:
Adult $69.50
Concession $67.50
Seniors $67.50 

Location Hamilton Performing Arts Centre

subvenue The Handbury Auditorium

Event Image
Rock Music

The Eagles Story

FRIDAY 11 APRIL, 8PM

The Eagles Story presents: Take it to the Limit Tour 2025

Australia’s Premier Eagles Experience is a celebration of the iconic American rock band, The Eagles. With incredible attention to detail, the performers bring the band’s legendary music to life in a way that is both authentic and electrifying.

The respect for the original band by members Pete McCarthy, Gary Young, Paul Gales, Norm McNaughton & Steve Wells are the driving force that continues to ensure that each in their own right “Take it to the Limit”.

From “Hotel California” to “Desperado,” the show features all of the band’s greatest hits, performed with stunning vocals and flawless musicianship. The Eagles Story is a must-see for fans of the band, as well as anyone who loves classic rock music.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply enjoy great music, this show is an unforgettable experience that will leave you wanting more.

Sneak Peek

Please note: Hazers and flashing lights may be used during this performance

Access & Inclusion: This is an accessible and inclusive event taking place on Gunditjmara Country. If you need assistance at the venue, please let us know when booking your ticket or contact us directly.

Tickets:
Early Bird $65 (valid 30.9.24 to 25.11.2024)
Adult $69
Seniors $64
Concession $64
Student/Under 17 $59
Groups 8+ $65

Location Hamilton Performing Arts Centre

subvenue The Handbury Auditorium

Event Image
Music

Brilliant Brass

TUESDAY 29 APRIL, 7.30

The MSO Brass section presents a dazzling program curated by MSO Principal Tuba Timothy Buzbee.

 Experience trumpets, trombones and tubas performing brass ensemble arrangements of music from Star Wars and Jurassic Park, as well as Prokofiev's Romeo and Juliet Suite. Conductor Ingrid Martin will guide you through this stunning evening exploring the sonorous sounds of the Orchestra's most lustrous instruments.

Program (arranged for brass ensemble)

Gabrieli Canzon in echo duodecimi toni à 10
Prokofiev Romeo and Juliet: Suite
John Williams Theme from Jurassic Park
John WilliamsStar Wars: Jabba the Hutt
John Williams Star Wars: Imperial March
John Williams Star Wars: Throne Room
Klaus Badelt Theme from Pirates of the Carribean

Featuring

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra Brass section
Ingrid Martin conductor
Timothy Buzbee curator

Note: This concert is the brass section only (not the full orchestra)

MSO’s regional touring program is supported by Creative Victoria, AWM Electrical, Freemasons Foundation Victoria and the Robert Salzer Foundation.

Access & Inclusion: This is an accessible and inclusive event taking place on Gunditjmara Country. If you need assistance at the venue, please let us know when booking your ticket or contact us directly.

Tickets:
Adult $45
Senior $40
Concession $35
Student $25
Child (under 13) $13

Location Hamilton Performing Arts Centre

subvenue The Handbury Auditorium

Event Image
Country, Music

Johnny Cash & The Outlaws

THURSDAY 1 MAY, 7.30PM

Jeff Carter Music and Leaving Jackson Present: JOHNNY CASH & THE OUTLAWS

A two-hour live concert not to be missed by any fan of country music.

CASH, JENNINGS, HAGGARD, NELSON, KRISTOFFERSON and some of the greatest songs every written performed by David Thompson, Jeff Carter Jnr, Michael Martin and Peter Ferguson.

Returning to Hamilton with a fresh look show of all your favourite country songs. Warm up your vocal chords and start singing.

Secure your tickets now and be part of a night that pays homage to the Legends of Outlaw Country Music.

Warning: Hazers and flashing lights will be in use

Access & Inclusion: This is an accessible and inclusive event taking place on Gunditjmara Country. If you need assistance at the venue, please let us know when booking your ticket or contact us directly. 

Tickets:
Adult $69
Seniors $64
Concession $64
Student/U17 $45
Groups 6+ $64

Location Hamilton Performing Arts Centre

subvenue The Handbury Auditorium

Event Image
Comedy

Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow

SATURDAY 24 MAY, 8PM

MICR and HPAC present: Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow

Australia’s most iconic comedy tour is hitting the road for a huge 27th year! Bringing together the brightest stars from the 2025 Melbourne International Comedy Festival, we’re delivering top-tier humour straight to Hamilton!

Featuring a dynamic line-up of comedy legends and fresh faces, this year’s Roadshow promises nation-wide happiness.

Check back closer to the event to find out which brilliant comics are heading your way.

Warnings:
Contains coarse language, adult themes, sexual references and material that may offend.
Hazer may be used

Access & Inclusion: This is an accessible and inclusive event taking place on Gunditjmara Country. If you need assistance at the venue, please let us know when booking your ticket or contact us directly. 

 Tickets:
Adult $45
Senior $40
Concession$35
Student $25
Groups 6+ $35

Location Hamilton Performing Arts Centre

subvenue The Handbury Auditorium

Event Image
Pop Music

Best of the Bee Gees

SATURDAY 31 MAY, 7.30PM

GSM Presents: Best of the Bee Gees - Saturday Night Fever Show

The Best of the Bee Gees honours the Saturday Night Fever album with chart busters from the Bee Gees, K.C. & The Sunshine Band, The Trammps and others, with special guest Roslyn Loxton

Endorsed by members of the Gibb family and original Bee Gees musicians, the Best of the Bee Gees opens with the Greatest Hits followed by a high-energy Saturday Night Fever second act, which have garnered standing ovations and 10 out of 10 reviews.

You’re invited to Put on Your Boogie Shoes, white suits and frills and salute almost 50 years since the album’s release with Stayin’ Alive, Jive Talkin’, Disco Inferno, Emotion, More Than A Woman, Warm Ride and so much more.

You Should Be Dancing the Brooklyn Shuffle with the Best of the Bee Gees and special guest Roslyn Loxton performing their Greatest Hits and Saturday Night Fever.

 REVIEWS⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“I’ve never seen a more professional tribute to the Bee Gees with those beautiful harmonies which are so difficult to achieve. They have worked hard to reproduce the unique sound of my brothers. So tastefully done. Absolutely brilliant and I didn’t want to leave. If you’re a Bee Gees fan, this is the concert for you.” Lesley Evans (Gibb)

“If you like the music of the Bee Gees and the Best of the Bee Gees Show comes to your town, don’t miss it!” Original Bee Gees Guitarist Vince Melouney

*Please note:
Hazer and flashing lights will be in use. 

Access & Inclusion: This is an accessible and inclusive event taking place on Gunditjmara Country. If you need assistance at the venue, please let us know when booking your ticket or contact us directly. 

Tickets: 
Adult $79
Seniors $69
Concession $69
Groups 6+ $69 each

Location Hamilton Performing Arts Centre

subvenue The Handbury Auditorium

Event Image
Drama, Musical Theatre

Waltzing the Wilarra

THURSDAY 17 JULY, 7:30pm 

HIT Productions & HPAC Present: Waltzing the Wilarra

Waltzing the Wilarra is an Australian musical play written and composed by David Milroy, set in a mixed-race dance club in post-World War II Perth.

Charlie, Elsa and Fay take you on a musical journey back to 1940's post war Perth. Against a backdrop of curfews, and the fear of arrest for consorting, white and black manage to form their own club. For a night they can forget their worries and experience rare happy times singing, dancing, listening to music, and with a little luck... romance.

Forty years on, as the club faces demolition, our three characters meet once again to stage a musical reunion and protest in an attempt to save their old stomping ground. As the trio reflects upon loves lost and found, old arguments and alliances resurface.

Dark secrets and ghosts that have lingered for more than half a century are revealed, and we discover that reconciliation is more than saying sorry.

Image: Left - Ernie Dingo and Jessica Clarke. Photo - Jon Green
Historical Photo Only Supplied Courtesy of Yirra Yaakin 2011 Production.
These actors do not appear in HIT’s 2025 production

Sneak Peek

Please Note: Hazers and flashing lights may be used during this performance. 

Access & Inclusion: This is an accessible and inclusive event taking place on Gunditjmara Country. If you need assistance at the venue, please let us know when booking your ticket or contact us directly.

Tickets:
Adult $30
Senior $25
Concession $20
Student $15
Child (under 13) $13
Groups 6+ $20

Location Hamilton Performing Arts Centre

subvenue The Handbury Auditorium

Event Image
Pop Music, Music

Queen - It's A Kinda Magic

WEDNESDAY 23 JULY, 7PM

Showtime Australia present: Queen - It's A Kinda Magic

Touring in 2025 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the release of Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody!

Immerse yourself in the spectacle, grandeur and energy of the world’s greatest Rock band with Queen: It’s a Kinda Magic, celebrating the legacy of Queen and Freddie Mercury.

Bringing big sound, big screens, crazy lighting and outlandish costumes, this is the REAL ROCK EXPERIENCE!

Hear Dominic Warren performing lead vocals, guitar and piano ALL LIVE ON STAGE and in Freddie’s original key, and with all the wit, charm and bravado of the legend himself.

Get ready for a night of non-stop Rock anthems including We Will Rock You, We Are the Champions, Radio GaGa, I Want to Break Free, Somebody to Love, Don’t Stop Me Now, Another One Bites the Dust, A Kind of Magic, Bohemian Rhapsody and so many more.

Selling out year after year around the world, this is a rock concert extravaganza NOT TO BE MISSED!

Sneak Peek

Please note: Hazers and flashing lights may be used during this performance. 

Access & Inclusion: This is a COVIDsafe, accessible and inclusive event taking place on Gunditjmara Country. If you need assistance at the venue, please let us know when booking your ticket or contact us directly. 

Tickets:
Early Bird $63.50 (valid Wed 13 Nov to Sun 24 Nov 2024)
Adult $74.05
Seniors $67.15
Child (Under 13) $43.90
Groups 6+ $69.05 each 

Location Hamilton Performing Arts Centre

subvenue The Handbury Auditorium

Event Image
Children

The Paper Escaper

THURSDAY 31 JULY, 6:30pm

HPAC presents a Terrapin production:THE PAPER ESCAPER By Gita Bezard 

A bright new puppetry work from Terrapin about determination, friendship and the power of following your own path.

Benny, the plucky puppet protagonist in The Paper Escaper, knows they are destined for greater things than a simple pop-up book. But in a world that’s trying to squash Benny between its pages – from a wily dancing fire to a disillusioned illustrator – Benny will need the help of a new friend to achieve their dreams.

Written by Gita Bezard of The Last Great Hunt, this delightful, funny and inspiring production features inventive puppetry, deft physical performance and an intricate and engaging soundtrack.

Benny doesn't want to tell the story 'The Maker' has written for them. As their parents get nervous about the consequences of defying the 'The Maker', Benny rips them from his story. Alone and in an unknown land, Benny comes across a mysterious tentacle and friendship blooms. But 'The Maker' is determined and his fire is hungry – and Benny and their friend must work together to survive.

Hero Image Credit: Darcie Richards. Terrapin is assisted by the Australian Government through Creative Australia, its principal arts investment and advisory body, and through Arts Tasmania by the Minister for the Arts. The Paper Escaper tour is supported by Arts on Tour.

CREATIVE TEAM BILLING
Writer - Gita Bezard
Director - Sam Routledge
Remount & Assisant Director - Davina Wright
Assistant Director - Emma Skalicky
Set & Costume Design - Charlotte Lane
Puppet Design & Construction - Bryony Anderson
Lighting Design - Nick HIggins
Additional Puppet Construction - Greta Jean
Scenic Painting - Edith Perrenot, Freya Pisioneri-Young, Mads Hillam
Sound Design - Jacky Collyer
Set Construction - Andrew Macdonald, Karl Sanger, Phil Wren
Costume Making - Roz Wren

CAST BILLING
Noah Casey, Genevieve Butler, Bella Young

We also have a performance especially for schools on Friday 1 August.

To make a school booking: ph: 5573 0429 or email: Email Booking
Or, to book your school students in please complete and submit your booking form -
School Booking Form

Access & Inclusion: This is an accessible and inclusive event taking place on Gunditjmara Country. If you need assistance at the venue, please let us know when booking your ticket or contact us directly. 

Tickets:
Adult $25
Student $15
Child (under 13) $13
Groups 4+ $15.50

Location Hamilton Performing Arts Centre

subvenue The Handbury Auditorium

Event Image
Comedy

Hall Stories

SATURDAY 9 AUGUST, 7.30PM

Damian Callinan & HPAC present at Dunkeld: Hall Stories

There is barely a bakery in regional Australia, that hasn’t had one of Damian Callinan’s show posters blu-tacked to its window. In Hall Stories, the celebrated actor, comedian and creator of the hit Netflix film The Merger, combines his skills as a storyteller, stand-up and character actor, to pull back the curtain on his own tour stories and examine the quirks, traditions and characters of Australian halls and meeting places.

In this particular show, Damian will also be spending time with the local community to delve into the history & characters of the Sterling Place, Dunkeld Community Centre and the role that it plays in the broader community. Following the show, Damian will publish a Hall Stories Podcast episode, dedicated to the Dunkeld Community Hall.

As well as the show, he will later deliver a podcast to document the story of the Community Centre Hall Stories. This is Callinan doing what he does best, where he does it best. He knows how to talk over a bubbling urn; wind up when the CWA head into the supper room and stack the chairs in 5’s at the end of the night. You just let him know where to get the hall key, and he’ll do the rest.

Access & Inclusion: This is an accessible and inclusive event taking place on Gunditjmara Country. If you need assistance at the venue, please let us know when booking your ticket or contact us directly. 

Tickets:
Adult $45
Senior $40
Concession $35
Student $25
Child (under 13) $13
Groups 4+ $27.50

Location Sterling Place, Dunkeld Community Centre

subvenue Sterling Place

Event Image
Comedy, Stand Up

Melbourne Comedy Showcase

SATURDAY 6 SEPTEMBER, 7:30PM

Wordsworth Productions & HPAC present: Melbourne Comedy Showcase

"Get ready to laugh out loud with the Melbourne Comedy Showcase!

A lineup featuring some of the best Melbourne has to offer including:
Lehmo (The Project, Utopia, Triple M)

Dave O’Neil (Spicks & Specks, Have You Been Paying Attention)

PLUS seasoned veteran Brad Oakes and up-and-coming stars, Sonia Di Iorio and Billy Stiles.

The Melbourne Comedy Showcase is a diverse mix of headliners and rising stars showcasing a range of comedic styles and a broad range of themes ensuring there is something for everyone! A perfect show for families with teenagers, retirees, boomers, gen xers or a night out with the girls. Themes include parenting, family life, single life, health, neurodiversity and the world around us.

COMICS BIO'S:

Lehmo
Lehmo is one of Australia’s most experienced and well travelled comedians. He has headlined comedy clubs across the country for well over fifteen years and worked all corners of the globe including USA, UK, Ireland, South Africa, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong and Thailand. 

Lehmo has also become Australia’s number one ‘combat comic’, having completed seven ‘tours of duty’ performing for our troops abroad. Lehmo can be heard on ABC Radio’s Grandstand on weekends and on the Triple M network across the week. Up until December 2017, Lehmo hosted the Number 1 FM breakfast show in Melbourne on Gold 104.3 with Jo Stanley.

Lehmo is a panelist on Network 10 news comedy program The Project, and the host of AFL comedy quiz show, The Beep Test on Fox Sports. He also stars in the Logie winning and critically acclaimed Working Dog TV production Utopia which airs on the ABC and Netflix.

As a regular on the festival circuit Lehmo has written and performed solo shows at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Adelaide Fringe Festival and the Melbourne International Comedy Festival for over two decades.

Dave O’Neil
Dave O'Neil may call himself a lightweight, but with over 30 years of experience, his cheeky brand of humour has made him one of Australia’s most loved comedians. With years of breakfast radio on Nova, more appearances on Spicks and Specks, than any other guest, a bunch of podcasts (including
Somehow Related with Glenn Robbins and The Junkees with Kitty Flanagan) and a reputation for taking any corporate gig he is offered, it takes a lot to throw this comedian off his game!

“An atmosphere some comedians would kill to be able to generate, sitting in Dave O’Neil’s audience is genuinely to feel like you’ve stumbled into a relaxed conversation among friends… there’s an engaging affability… unprepossessingly good-spirited fun.” –Chortle
“One of our most accomplished stand-ups.” – The Age

Sonia Di Ioro
Sonia Di Iorio has over 10 years of experience as a standup comedian. She has opened for Ronny Chieng, performed at The Sidney Myer Music Bowl, Splendour in the Grass, and comedy clubs right around the country.

Di Iorio is a writer on The Project and has been heard on popular comedy podcasts 'The Little Dum Dum Club' and 'Don’t You Know Who I Am?'

“Quick-witted, tight and oozing with confidence.” - Pop Culture-y
“Clearly an accomplished performer.” - Squirrel Comed

Brad Oakes
Brad Oakes is a stand-up comic with a career spanning over 25 years. Bradford Oakes is a professional stand-up comic with a career spanning over 30+ years. He is also a reliable and most trusted host. Brad is well known for his TV work on Hey Hey It's Saturday, Totally Full Frontal and The Comedy Company, The Jimeoin Show, and a host of others. He has headlined/hosted at every major comedy venue in Australia and toured internationally as a stand-up to Edinburgh, United Kingdom, Singapore, New Zealand and Dubai.

Brad Oakes, the Comic's comic, works as a mentor and director to some of the country's most well-known comedians including Tommy Little, Claire Hooper and Corrine Grant. He has directed over 30 different comedy festival shows.

"He is dry, cynical and funny... An extremely proficient stand up comedian." - Melbourne Age
“Clearly a funny man who doesn't talk down... Makes you want to listen...Refreshing intelligence." - The Herald Sun

Billy Stiles
As a late starter to comedy, Billy Stiles has fast become a rising star in the Australian stand-up scene. Known for his dry observations and deadpan humour, Billy has a talent for hilarious one-liners and is taking the comedy scene by storm with his iconic, laid back style that is relatable to all.

Billy Stiles has travelled the country performing in comedy clubs and pubs all over Australia! As a late starter to comedy, Billy quickly moved through the ranks and found himself regularly supporting Australia’s best, including Jimeoin, Dave Hughes, Dave O’Neil, Peter Helliar, Dave Thornton and more.

Dave Hughes says, “Billy is a great joke writer” and Dave O’Neil reckons “Billy Stiles is one of the most underrated comedians in Australia.”

Billy Stiles’ observational humour is highly relatable and gives insight into how an ADHD brain operates with hilarious anecdotes about his everyday life. Billy's comedy is loved by a wide demographic of audiences from teenagers to middle-aged women making him one of the most sought after talents in
Melbourne.

Warning: Some adult concepts, occasional strong language, suitable 16+

Access & Inclusion: This is an accessible and inclusive event taking place on Gunditjmara Country. If you need assistance at the venue, please let us know when booking your ticket or contact us directly. 

Tickets:Adult $60
Senior $55
Concession $50
Student $25
Groups 6+ $30

Location Hamilton Performing Arts Centre

subvenue The Handbury Auditorium

Event Image
Dance, Circus

Of The Land On Which We Meet

SATURDAY 18 OCTOBER, 7:30pm

Regional Arts Victoria, Na Djinang Circus & HPAC present: Of The Land On Which We Meet

We are not the first – nor will we be the last – to walk on this land.

Walking on stone and cement it can be hard to remember what it feels like to have earth
beneath our feet.

What does it mean to be where we are?
What do we, as 21st century Australians, think it means to be "on Country"?

By opening up the acknowledgement of Country and taking a closer look within it, we
search for a way to address the possible lack of connection contemporary Australians
have with the spirituality of the land.

Of The Land On Which We Meet follows the journey of three contemporary Australian
circus artists with distinct relationships with Country; an indigenous Australian, a
descendant of migrants, and a descendant of colonial settlers.

Using physical representation within Na Djinang Circus’ signature tone and style of
Indigenous forms merged with Western mediums, Of The Land On Which We Meet hopes
to re-discover a connection we once had.

Join this cultural journey on Country with 60,000 years of history, spirit and story.

This project received Cash to Create through the Fringe Fund, as part of Deadly Fringe.

Supported by The City of Melbourne, The City of Maribyrnong, Craig Semple, Creative
Victoria, The Australia Council for the Arts.

REVIEWS ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Check out these 5 Star Reviews

Fringe Review

'Captivating, breathtaking, and profoundly moving—this show will change the way you think about home and your relationship to it.' Binge Fringe Magazine

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders are advised that the work contains voices of people who have passed away.

Recommended Audience:12+ (the work is suitable for all resonates best with people who understand colonisation)

Access & Inclusion: This is an accessible and inclusive event taking place on Gunditjmara Country. If you need assistance at the venue, please let us know when booking your ticket or contact us directly.

Tickets:
Adult $30
Senior $25
Concession $20
Student $15
Groups 6+ $20

Location Hamilton Performing Arts Centre

subvenue The Handbury Auditorium

Select Dates

Select Time

Filters

Event Image
Comedy

Kitty Flanagan Live

THURSDAY 13 FEBRUARY, 8PM

A-List Entertainment presents: Kitty Flanagan LIVE

This performance is currently sold out. If you would like to be added to her waiting list - scroll to the seating plan below to click on the 'Back to Event' button which will take you to where you can add your interest. Or, you can contact the box office on 03 5573 0429

You’ve seen her on Fisk, Utopia and Have You Been Paying Attention? She also wrote the best-selling book, 488 Rules for Life and has won back to back silver Logies for Fisk, but now it’s time for Kitty to get back where she belongs. On the stage, doing stand-up. 

Kitty Flanagan Live is her hit show full of hard laughs, good times, handy hints and a catchy little tune about underpants.

For more information about Kitty Flanagan:

More Info

Access & Inclusion: This is an accessible and inclusive event taking place on Gunditjmara Country. If you need assistance at the venue, please let us know when booking your ticket or contact us directly.

Tickets:
Adult $69.90
Concession $69.90
Seniors $69.90

Location Hamilton Performing Arts Centre

subvenue The Handbury Auditorium

Event Image
Music

Don't Shoot Me I'm Only The Piano Player

FRIDAY 14 FEBRUARY, 11AM

David Scheel & HPAC Present: Don't Shoot Me I'm Only The Piano Player

A show that's been a runaway success in London’s West End, at successive Edinburgh Festivals, at the Melbourne Comedy Festival and right across the USA, this is a hilarious send-up of classical music, which has established Australian pianist, David Scheel, as the successor to the legendary Victor Borge.

Beautiful music, and musical fun performed in so many accents/voices that David has also been compared to the late Robin Williams and Peter Ustinov.

Come along to hear a familiar tune played in the styles of the old masters + an i-Pod; two famous pieces played simultaneously, one with the right hand, one with the left, plus his “translation” of the lyrics of Waltzing Matilda, already a comedy classic.

Piano playing as you've probably never heard it before!

Meet up with your friends for a cuppa before the show.

Access & Inclusion: This is an accessible and inclusive event taking place on Gunditjmara Country. If you need assistance at the venue, please let us know when booking your ticket or contact us directly.

Tickets:
Adult $30
Senior $25
Concession $20
Student $15
Groups 6+ $20

Location Hamilton Performing Arts Centre

subvenue The Handbury Auditorium

Event Image
Comedy, Stand Up, Family

Anh Do - The Happiest Refugee Live!

THURSDAY 20 MARCH - 7:30PM

A-List Entertainment presents: Anh Do - The Happiest Refugee Live!

Anh Do’s bestselling book The Happiest Refugee has made readers laugh and cry, and was described by Russell Crowe as 'the most surprising and inspiring read I have had in years.'

Anh’s stage show takes it a step further, combining stand-up comedy with real life stories, photos and filmed pieces to retell his amazing story.

When one of Australia’s most talented comedians delves deep into his own life’s joys and sorrows, the result is an unforgettable night at the theatre that leaves an audience uplifted and quite simply experiencing... happiness.

For more information:

Alist.com.au

Anhdo.com

REVIEWS ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'Irrepressible good humour, infectious energy and bright optimism' The Sydney Morning Herald

'The happiest audience experience I have ever had' …ArtsHub

'Two thumbs, five stars, show of the season' The Music

Sneak Peek

Australian comedian Joel Ozborn will support Anh in Hamilton.

Note: Restricted 7+, no babes in arms permitted to this performance.

Access & Inclusion: This is an accessible and inclusive event taking place on Gunditjmara Country. If you need assistance at the venue, please let us know when booking your ticket or contact us directly. 

Tickets:
Adult $69.90
Seniors $64.90
Concession $64.90
Student/Under 17 $64.90
Groups 10+ $64.90 each

Location Hamilton Performing Arts Centre

subvenue The Handbury Auditorium

Event Image
Folk, Music

Melbourne Celtic Festival

WEDNESDAY 26 MARCH, 7.30PM

Promac Productions and HPAC present: Melbourne Celtic Festival

Join us for an unforgettable production featuring the best of Celtic music with Australian Folk Band of the Year Winners - Austral, international sensation and, special guest artist Chloe Matharu direct from Scotland and traditional Irish trio Bhan Tre. 

Austral who are renowned for their vibrant energy and spirited rhythms, brings their unique blend of contemporary and traditional Celtic music to the stage. They supply the festival vibe to get everyone on their feet. 

Chloe Matharu, 27 year old singer-songwriter and harpist graces the stage with her enchanting voice and mesmerizing harp skills. Chloe will perform songs from her award-winning debut album Small Voyages and her newly released follow up album Sailors and Rolling Stones. Both albums are inspired by her life and experiences as a Seafarer on the high seas. 

Traditional Irish trio Bhan Tre will take you to the heart of Ireland with their authentic renditions of beloved Irish songs and new tunes. Their close harmonies, humour and toe-tapping music captures the true essence of Irish tradition. 

Melbourne Celtic Festival ON TOUR brings the best Craic in Australia, promising a performance of unbridled joy, music, and celebration that you won't want to miss! 

Sneak Peek

REVIEWS ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Chloe Matharu has a voice with the purity of a folk classic.” The Herald Scotland 

“Her music is truly haunting.” BBC Scotland 

“Austral deserves their place in the Irish musical Diaspora and this recording (Thylacine) promises great things to come from the land down under.” Irish Music Magazine 

“They light a room up, if you ever get a chance to be in the presence of this band, do it... it’s a party!” Blarney Pilgrim’s Podcast

For more information:

Austral

Chloe Matharu

Warning: Hazer & Flashing Lights may be used

Access & Inclusion: This is an accessible and inclusive event taking place on Gunditjmara Country. If you need assistance at the venue, please let us know when booking your ticket or contact us directly.

Tickets:
Adult $50
Seniors $45
Concession $40
Student $25
Groups 6+ $30

Location Hamilton Performing Arts Centre

subvenue The Handbury Auditorium

Event Image
Children

Josephine Wants To Dance

SATURDAY 29 MARCH, 10.30am

HPAC Presents A Monkey Baa Theatre Company Production:
Josephine Wants To Dance
Based on the book by Jackie French and Bruce Whatley
Illustrated by Bruce Whatley
Adapted by Eva Di Cesare, Sandie Eldridge and Tim McGarry

She's bold. She's bouncy. She's back!

A hilarious musical about the importance of believing in yourself and realising your dreams and... a dancing kangaroo!

Based on the picture book by Jackie French and Bruce Whatley, this delightful musical is a must see!

Josephine is a kangaroo who loves to dance. Her little brother, Joey, tells her kangaroos don't dance, they hop - but Josephine continues to point her toes and leap through the air. When a ballet troupe comes to the sleepy town of Shaggy Gully, Josephine desperately wants to dance like the ballerinas in pink tutus and silk ballet shoes.

On the day of the first performance the Ballet Company is in trouble. The prima ballerina twists her ankle and the understudy has a splinter in her toe. Who can dance the lead role? Josephine's talents are called upon to help save the day. Can she do it, and more importantly, does it matter that she's a kangaroo?

CREATIVE TEAM BILLING
Adaptors - Eva Di Cesare, Sandie Eldridge and Tim McGarry
Director - Jonathan Biggins
Composer/Lyricist - Phil Scott
Choreographer - Tim Harbour
Set & Costume Designer - James Browne
Lighting Designer - Emma Lockhart-Wilson
Sound Designer - David Bergman
Musical Director - Michael Tyack
Remount Lighting Designer - Veronique Bennett
Costume Cutter - Marianne Close

CAST BILLING
Lily Baulderstone, Nina Carmen, Hannah Gwatkin, Callum Slater, Georgia Unsworth (understudy)

REVIEWS ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“A complete delight.” - Jo Litson, Daily Telegraph

"If you have children to take, then, take them. If you don't, still go. Don't be shy. Just, go, go, go.” - Kevin Jackson Theatre Diaries

"Wonderfully whimsical and utterly inspiring...a must see for anyone with a sense of wonder.” - Jade Kops, Broadway World

A special schools performance will be held on Friday 28 March at 1.30pm.

To make a school booking: ph: 5573 0429 or email: Email Booking
Or, to book your school students in please complete and submit your booking form -
School Booking Form

Warning: Hazer will be in use

Access & Inclusion: This is an accessible and inclusive event taking place on Gunditjmara Country. If you need assistance at the venue, please let us know when booking your ticket or contact us directly.

Tickets:
Adult $25
Child (under 13yr) $64
Student $15
Groups 4+ $15.50

Location Hamilton Performing Arts Centre

subvenue The Handbury Auditorium

Event Image
Country, Music

The Roy Orbison Story

SATURDAY 5 APRIL, 7.30PM

Focal Point Australia presents: The Roy Orbison Story

Experience the wonder of Roy Orbison in this brilliant theatrical portrayal of the man, his music, his voice & his life.

You will find yourself believing you are in his presence, transported back in time, reliving the emotion of each of his songs & the stories of his life. Listen to all his hits:

Only The Lonely, Running Scared, Sweet Dream Baby, Anything You Want, Candy Man, Blue Bayou, In Dreams, Crying, Workin’ For The Man, Penny Arcade and of course, Pretty Woman. There’s so many more we can’t list them all!

Mark Shelley is simply brilliant in his characterisation of Roy. He not only has the vocal range & tone to honour his songs, he also has the sensitivity & artistic ability to ‘be’ Roy.

Without doubt, this is the definitive portrayal of Roy Orbison - the man, his music & his life.

Sneak Peek

Access & Inclusion: This is a COVIDsafe, accessible and inclusive event taking place on Gunditjmara Country. If you need assistance at the venue, please let us know when booking your ticket or contact us directly. 

 
Tickets:
Adult $69.50
Concession $67.50
Seniors $67.50 

Location Hamilton Performing Arts Centre

subvenue The Handbury Auditorium

Event Image
Rock Music

The Eagles Story

FRIDAY 11 APRIL, 8PM

The Eagles Story presents: Take it to the Limit Tour 2025

Australia’s Premier Eagles Experience is a celebration of the iconic American rock band, The Eagles. With incredible attention to detail, the performers bring the band’s legendary music to life in a way that is both authentic and electrifying.

The respect for the original band by members Pete McCarthy, Gary Young, Paul Gales, Norm McNaughton & Steve Wells are the driving force that continues to ensure that each in their own right “Take it to the Limit”.

From “Hotel California” to “Desperado,” the show features all of the band’s greatest hits, performed with stunning vocals and flawless musicianship. The Eagles Story is a must-see for fans of the band, as well as anyone who loves classic rock music.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply enjoy great music, this show is an unforgettable experience that will leave you wanting more.

Sneak Peek

Please note: Hazers and flashing lights may be used during this performance

Access & Inclusion: This is an accessible and inclusive event taking place on Gunditjmara Country. If you need assistance at the venue, please let us know when booking your ticket or contact us directly.

Tickets:
Early Bird $65 (valid 30.9.24 to 25.11.2024)
Adult $69
Seniors $64
Concession $64
Student/Under 17 $59
Groups 8+ $65

Location Hamilton Performing Arts Centre

subvenue The Handbury Auditorium

Event Image
Music

Brilliant Brass

TUESDAY 29 APRIL, 7.30

The MSO Brass section presents a dazzling program curated by MSO Principal Tuba Timothy Buzbee.

 Experience trumpets, trombones and tubas performing brass ensemble arrangements of music from Star Wars and Jurassic Park, as well as Prokofiev's Romeo and Juliet Suite. Conductor Ingrid Martin will guide you through this stunning evening exploring the sonorous sounds of the Orchestra's most lustrous instruments.

Program (arranged for brass ensemble)

Gabrieli Canzon in echo duodecimi toni à 10
Prokofiev Romeo and Juliet: Suite
John Williams Theme from Jurassic Park
John WilliamsStar Wars: Jabba the Hutt
John Williams Star Wars: Imperial March
John Williams Star Wars: Throne Room
Klaus Badelt Theme from Pirates of the Carribean

Featuring

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra Brass section
Ingrid Martin conductor
Timothy Buzbee curator

Note: This concert is the brass section only (not the full orchestra)

MSO’s regional touring program is supported by Creative Victoria, AWM Electrical, Freemasons Foundation Victoria and the Robert Salzer Foundation.

Access & Inclusion: This is an accessible and inclusive event taking place on Gunditjmara Country. If you need assistance at the venue, please let us know when booking your ticket or contact us directly.

Tickets:
Adult $45
Senior $40
Concession $35
Student $25
Child (under 13) $13

Location Hamilton Performing Arts Centre

subvenue The Handbury Auditorium

Event Image
Country, Music

Johnny Cash & The Outlaws

THURSDAY 1 MAY, 7.30PM

Jeff Carter Music and Leaving Jackson Present: JOHNNY CASH & THE OUTLAWS

A two-hour live concert not to be missed by any fan of country music.

CASH, JENNINGS, HAGGARD, NELSON, KRISTOFFERSON and some of the greatest songs every written performed by David Thompson, Jeff Carter Jnr, Michael Martin and Peter Ferguson.

Returning to Hamilton with a fresh look show of all your favourite country songs. Warm up your vocal chords and start singing.

Secure your tickets now and be part of a night that pays homage to the Legends of Outlaw Country Music.

Warning: Hazers and flashing lights will be in use

Access & Inclusion: This is an accessible and inclusive event taking place on Gunditjmara Country. If you need assistance at the venue, please let us know when booking your ticket or contact us directly. 

Tickets:
Adult $69
Seniors $64
Concession $64
Student/U17 $45
Groups 6+ $64

Location Hamilton Performing Arts Centre

subvenue The Handbury Auditorium

Event Image
Comedy

Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow

SATURDAY 24 MAY, 8PM

MICR and HPAC present: Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow

Australia’s most iconic comedy tour is hitting the road for a huge 27th year! Bringing together the brightest stars from the 2025 Melbourne International Comedy Festival, we’re delivering top-tier humour straight to Hamilton!

Featuring a dynamic line-up of comedy legends and fresh faces, this year’s Roadshow promises nation-wide happiness.

Check back closer to the event to find out which brilliant comics are heading your way.

Warnings:
Contains coarse language, adult themes, sexual references and material that may offend.
Hazer may be used

Access & Inclusion: This is an accessible and inclusive event taking place on Gunditjmara Country. If you need assistance at the venue, please let us know when booking your ticket or contact us directly. 

 Tickets:
Adult $45
Senior $40
Concession$35
Student $25
Groups 6+ $35

Location Hamilton Performing Arts Centre

subvenue The Handbury Auditorium

Event Image
Pop Music

Best of the Bee Gees

SATURDAY 31 MAY, 7.30PM

GSM Presents: Best of the Bee Gees - Saturday Night Fever Show

The Best of the Bee Gees honours the Saturday Night Fever album with chart busters from the Bee Gees, K.C. & The Sunshine Band, The Trammps and others, with special guest Roslyn Loxton

Endorsed by members of the Gibb family and original Bee Gees musicians, the Best of the Bee Gees opens with the Greatest Hits followed by a high-energy Saturday Night Fever second act, which have garnered standing ovations and 10 out of 10 reviews.

You’re invited to Put on Your Boogie Shoes, white suits and frills and salute almost 50 years since the album’s release with Stayin’ Alive, Jive Talkin’, Disco Inferno, Emotion, More Than A Woman, Warm Ride and so much more.

You Should Be Dancing the Brooklyn Shuffle with the Best of the Bee Gees and special guest Roslyn Loxton performing their Greatest Hits and Saturday Night Fever.

 REVIEWS⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“I’ve never seen a more professional tribute to the Bee Gees with those beautiful harmonies which are so difficult to achieve. They have worked hard to reproduce the unique sound of my brothers. So tastefully done. Absolutely brilliant and I didn’t want to leave. If you’re a Bee Gees fan, this is the concert for you.” Lesley Evans (Gibb)

“If you like the music of the Bee Gees and the Best of the Bee Gees Show comes to your town, don’t miss it!” Original Bee Gees Guitarist Vince Melouney

*Please note:
Hazer and flashing lights will be in use. 

Access & Inclusion: This is an accessible and inclusive event taking place on Gunditjmara Country. If you need assistance at the venue, please let us know when booking your ticket or contact us directly. 

Tickets: 
Adult $79
Seniors $69
Concession $69
Groups 6+ $69 each

Location Hamilton Performing Arts Centre

subvenue The Handbury Auditorium

Event Image
Drama, Musical Theatre

Waltzing the Wilarra

THURSDAY 17 JULY, 7:30pm 

HIT Productions & HPAC Present: Waltzing the Wilarra

Waltzing the Wilarra is an Australian musical play written and composed by David Milroy, set in a mixed-race dance club in post-World War II Perth.

Charlie, Elsa and Fay take you on a musical journey back to 1940's post war Perth. Against a backdrop of curfews, and the fear of arrest for consorting, white and black manage to form their own club. For a night they can forget their worries and experience rare happy times singing, dancing, listening to music, and with a little luck... romance.

Forty years on, as the club faces demolition, our three characters meet once again to stage a musical reunion and protest in an attempt to save their old stomping ground. As the trio reflects upon loves lost and found, old arguments and alliances resurface.

Dark secrets and ghosts that have lingered for more than half a century are revealed, and we discover that reconciliation is more than saying sorry.

Image: Left - Ernie Dingo and Jessica Clarke. Photo - Jon Green
Historical Photo Only Supplied Courtesy of Yirra Yaakin 2011 Production.
These actors do not appear in HIT’s 2025 production

Sneak Peek

Please Note: Hazers and flashing lights may be used during this performance. 

Access & Inclusion: This is an accessible and inclusive event taking place on Gunditjmara Country. If you need assistance at the venue, please let us know when booking your ticket or contact us directly.

Tickets:
Adult $30
Senior $25
Concession $20
Student $15
Child (under 13) $13
Groups 6+ $20

Location Hamilton Performing Arts Centre

subvenue The Handbury Auditorium

Event Image
Pop Music, Music

Queen - It's A Kinda Magic

WEDNESDAY 23 JULY, 7PM

Showtime Australia present: Queen - It's A Kinda Magic

Touring in 2025 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the release of Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody!

Immerse yourself in the spectacle, grandeur and energy of the world’s greatest Rock band with Queen: It’s a Kinda Magic, celebrating the legacy of Queen and Freddie Mercury.

Bringing big sound, big screens, crazy lighting and outlandish costumes, this is the REAL ROCK EXPERIENCE!

Hear Dominic Warren performing lead vocals, guitar and piano ALL LIVE ON STAGE and in Freddie’s original key, and with all the wit, charm and bravado of the legend himself.

Get ready for a night of non-stop Rock anthems including We Will Rock You, We Are the Champions, Radio GaGa, I Want to Break Free, Somebody to Love, Don’t Stop Me Now, Another One Bites the Dust, A Kind of Magic, Bohemian Rhapsody and so many more.

Selling out year after year around the world, this is a rock concert extravaganza NOT TO BE MISSED!

Sneak Peek

Please note: Hazers and flashing lights may be used during this performance. 

Access & Inclusion: This is a COVIDsafe, accessible and inclusive event taking place on Gunditjmara Country. If you need assistance at the venue, please let us know when booking your ticket or contact us directly. 

Tickets:
Early Bird $63.50 (valid Wed 13 Nov to Sun 24 Nov 2024)
Adult $74.05
Seniors $67.15
Child (Under 13) $43.90
Groups 6+ $69.05 each 

Location Hamilton Performing Arts Centre

subvenue The Handbury Auditorium

Event Image
Children

The Paper Escaper

THURSDAY 31 JULY, 6:30pm

HPAC presents a Terrapin production:THE PAPER ESCAPER By Gita Bezard 

A bright new puppetry work from Terrapin about determination, friendship and the power of following your own path.

Benny, the plucky puppet protagonist in The Paper Escaper, knows they are destined for greater things than a simple pop-up book. But in a world that’s trying to squash Benny between its pages – from a wily dancing fire to a disillusioned illustrator – Benny will need the help of a new friend to achieve their dreams.

Written by Gita Bezard of The Last Great Hunt, this delightful, funny and inspiring production features inventive puppetry, deft physical performance and an intricate and engaging soundtrack.

Benny doesn't want to tell the story 'The Maker' has written for them. As their parents get nervous about the consequences of defying the 'The Maker', Benny rips them from his story. Alone and in an unknown land, Benny comes across a mysterious tentacle and friendship blooms. But 'The Maker' is determined and his fire is hungry – and Benny and their friend must work together to survive.

Hero Image Credit: Darcie Richards. Terrapin is assisted by the Australian Government through Creative Australia, its principal arts investment and advisory body, and through Arts Tasmania by the Minister for the Arts. The Paper Escaper tour is supported by Arts on Tour.

CREATIVE TEAM BILLING
Writer - Gita Bezard
Director - Sam Routledge
Remount & Assisant Director - Davina Wright
Assistant Director - Emma Skalicky
Set & Costume Design - Charlotte Lane
Puppet Design & Construction - Bryony Anderson
Lighting Design - Nick HIggins
Additional Puppet Construction - Greta Jean
Scenic Painting - Edith Perrenot, Freya Pisioneri-Young, Mads Hillam
Sound Design - Jacky Collyer
Set Construction - Andrew Macdonald, Karl Sanger, Phil Wren
Costume Making - Roz Wren

CAST BILLING
Noah Casey, Genevieve Butler, Bella Young

We also have a performance especially for schools on Friday 1 August.

To make a school booking: ph: 5573 0429 or email: Email Booking
Or, to book your school students in please complete and submit your booking form -
School Booking Form

Access & Inclusion: This is an accessible and inclusive event taking place on Gunditjmara Country. If you need assistance at the venue, please let us know when booking your ticket or contact us directly. 

Tickets:
Adult $25
Student $15
Child (under 13) $13
Groups 4+ $15.50

Location Hamilton Performing Arts Centre

subvenue The Handbury Auditorium

Event Image
Comedy

Hall Stories

SATURDAY 9 AUGUST, 7.30PM

Damian Callinan & HPAC present at Dunkeld: Hall Stories

There is barely a bakery in regional Australia, that hasn’t had one of Damian Callinan’s show posters blu-tacked to its window. In Hall Stories, the celebrated actor, comedian and creator of the hit Netflix film The Merger, combines his skills as a storyteller, stand-up and character actor, to pull back the curtain on his own tour stories and examine the quirks, traditions and characters of Australian halls and meeting places.

In this particular show, Damian will also be spending time with the local community to delve into the history & characters of the Sterling Place, Dunkeld Community Centre and the role that it plays in the broader community. Following the show, Damian will publish a Hall Stories Podcast episode, dedicated to the Dunkeld Community Hall.

As well as the show, he will later deliver a podcast to document the story of the Community Centre Hall Stories. This is Callinan doing what he does best, where he does it best. He knows how to talk over a bubbling urn; wind up when the CWA head into the supper room and stack the chairs in 5’s at the end of the night. You just let him know where to get the hall key, and he’ll do the rest.

Access & Inclusion: This is an accessible and inclusive event taking place on Gunditjmara Country. If you need assistance at the venue, please let us know when booking your ticket or contact us directly. 

Tickets:
Adult $45
Senior $40
Concession $35
Student $25
Child (under 13) $13
Groups 4+ $27.50

Location Sterling Place, Dunkeld Community Centre

subvenue Sterling Place

Event Image
Comedy, Stand Up

Melbourne Comedy Showcase

SATURDAY 6 SEPTEMBER, 7:30PM

Wordsworth Productions & HPAC present: Melbourne Comedy Showcase

"Get ready to laugh out loud with the Melbourne Comedy Showcase!

A lineup featuring some of the best Melbourne has to offer including:
Lehmo (The Project, Utopia, Triple M)

Dave O’Neil (Spicks & Specks, Have You Been Paying Attention)

PLUS seasoned veteran Brad Oakes and up-and-coming stars, Sonia Di Iorio and Billy Stiles.

The Melbourne Comedy Showcase is a diverse mix of headliners and rising stars showcasing a range of comedic styles and a broad range of themes ensuring there is something for everyone! A perfect show for families with teenagers, retirees, boomers, gen xers or a night out with the girls. Themes include parenting, family life, single life, health, neurodiversity and the world around us.

COMICS BIO'S:

Lehmo
Lehmo is one of Australia’s most experienced and well travelled comedians. He has headlined comedy clubs across the country for well over fifteen years and worked all corners of the globe including USA, UK, Ireland, South Africa, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong and Thailand. 

Lehmo has also become Australia’s number one ‘combat comic’, having completed seven ‘tours of duty’ performing for our troops abroad. Lehmo can be heard on ABC Radio’s Grandstand on weekends and on the Triple M network across the week. Up until December 2017, Lehmo hosted the Number 1 FM breakfast show in Melbourne on Gold 104.3 with Jo Stanley.

Lehmo is a panelist on Network 10 news comedy program The Project, and the host of AFL comedy quiz show, The Beep Test on Fox Sports. He also stars in the Logie winning and critically acclaimed Working Dog TV production Utopia which airs on the ABC and Netflix.

As a regular on the festival circuit Lehmo has written and performed solo shows at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Adelaide Fringe Festival and the Melbourne International Comedy Festival for over two decades.

Dave O’Neil
Dave O'Neil may call himself a lightweight, but with over 30 years of experience, his cheeky brand of humour has made him one of Australia’s most loved comedians. With years of breakfast radio on Nova, more appearances on Spicks and Specks, than any other guest, a bunch of podcasts (including
Somehow Related with Glenn Robbins and The Junkees with Kitty Flanagan) and a reputation for taking any corporate gig he is offered, it takes a lot to throw this comedian off his game!

“An atmosphere some comedians would kill to be able to generate, sitting in Dave O’Neil’s audience is genuinely to feel like you’ve stumbled into a relaxed conversation among friends… there’s an engaging affability… unprepossessingly good-spirited fun.” –Chortle
“One of our most accomplished stand-ups.” – The Age

Sonia Di Ioro
Sonia Di Iorio has over 10 years of experience as a standup comedian. She has opened for Ronny Chieng, performed at The Sidney Myer Music Bowl, Splendour in the Grass, and comedy clubs right around the country.

Di Iorio is a writer on The Project and has been heard on popular comedy podcasts 'The Little Dum Dum Club' and 'Don’t You Know Who I Am?'

“Quick-witted, tight and oozing with confidence.” - Pop Culture-y
“Clearly an accomplished performer.” - Squirrel Comed

Brad Oakes
Brad Oakes is a stand-up comic with a career spanning over 25 years. Bradford Oakes is a professional stand-up comic with a career spanning over 30+ years. He is also a reliable and most trusted host. Brad is well known for his TV work on Hey Hey It's Saturday, Totally Full Frontal and The Comedy Company, The Jimeoin Show, and a host of others. He has headlined/hosted at every major comedy venue in Australia and toured internationally as a stand-up to Edinburgh, United Kingdom, Singapore, New Zealand and Dubai.

Brad Oakes, the Comic's comic, works as a mentor and director to some of the country's most well-known comedians including Tommy Little, Claire Hooper and Corrine Grant. He has directed over 30 different comedy festival shows.

"He is dry, cynical and funny... An extremely proficient stand up comedian." - Melbourne Age
“Clearly a funny man who doesn't talk down... Makes you want to listen...Refreshing intelligence." - The Herald Sun

Billy Stiles
As a late starter to comedy, Billy Stiles has fast become a rising star in the Australian stand-up scene. Known for his dry observations and deadpan humour, Billy has a talent for hilarious one-liners and is taking the comedy scene by storm with his iconic, laid back style that is relatable to all.

Billy Stiles has travelled the country performing in comedy clubs and pubs all over Australia! As a late starter to comedy, Billy quickly moved through the ranks and found himself regularly supporting Australia’s best, including Jimeoin, Dave Hughes, Dave O’Neil, Peter Helliar, Dave Thornton and more.

Dave Hughes says, “Billy is a great joke writer” and Dave O’Neil reckons “Billy Stiles is one of the most underrated comedians in Australia.”

Billy Stiles’ observational humour is highly relatable and gives insight into how an ADHD brain operates with hilarious anecdotes about his everyday life. Billy's comedy is loved by a wide demographic of audiences from teenagers to middle-aged women making him one of the most sought after talents in
Melbourne.

Warning: Some adult concepts, occasional strong language, suitable 16+

Access & Inclusion: This is an accessible and inclusive event taking place on Gunditjmara Country. If you need assistance at the venue, please let us know when booking your ticket or contact us directly. 

Tickets:Adult $60
Senior $55
Concession $50
Student $25
Groups 6+ $30

Location Hamilton Performing Arts Centre

subvenue The Handbury Auditorium

Event Image
Dance, Circus

Of The Land On Which We Meet

SATURDAY 18 OCTOBER, 7:30pm

Regional Arts Victoria, Na Djinang Circus & HPAC present: Of The Land On Which We Meet

We are not the first – nor will we be the last – to walk on this land.

Walking on stone and cement it can be hard to remember what it feels like to have earth
beneath our feet.

What does it mean to be where we are?
What do we, as 21st century Australians, think it means to be "on Country"?

By opening up the acknowledgement of Country and taking a closer look within it, we
search for a way to address the possible lack of connection contemporary Australians
have with the spirituality of the land.

Of The Land On Which We Meet follows the journey of three contemporary Australian
circus artists with distinct relationships with Country; an indigenous Australian, a
descendant of migrants, and a descendant of colonial settlers.

Using physical representation within Na Djinang Circus’ signature tone and style of
Indigenous forms merged with Western mediums, Of The Land On Which We Meet hopes
to re-discover a connection we once had.

Join this cultural journey on Country with 60,000 years of history, spirit and story.

This project received Cash to Create through the Fringe Fund, as part of Deadly Fringe.

Supported by The City of Melbourne, The City of Maribyrnong, Craig Semple, Creative
Victoria, The Australia Council for the Arts.

REVIEWS ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Check out these 5 Star Reviews

Fringe Review

'Captivating, breathtaking, and profoundly moving—this show will change the way you think about home and your relationship to it.' Binge Fringe Magazine

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders are advised that the work contains voices of people who have passed away.

Recommended Audience:12+ (the work is suitable for all resonates best with people who understand colonisation)

Access & Inclusion: This is an accessible and inclusive event taking place on Gunditjmara Country. If you need assistance at the venue, please let us know when booking your ticket or contact us directly.

Tickets:
Adult $30
Senior $25
Concession $20
Student $15
Groups 6+ $20

Location Hamilton Performing Arts Centre

subvenue The Handbury Auditorium