If you needed any convincing that Brisbane is absolutely stacked with good theatre in 2026, consider this your sign. From big, joyful musicals and cult favourites to smart revivals and world-first premieres, the city’s stages are delivering all year long. We’ve already started plotting our calendars, corralling friends and mentally justifying multiple theatre nights a month — and these are the professional shows sitting firmly on our must-see list for 2026 (in date order).
Annie
When: 27 December 2025 – 31 January 2026
Where: Lyric Theatre, QPAC
Some shows just feel like a warm hug, and Annie is very much that. With its instantly recognisable songs, big-hearted storytelling and pure feel-good energy, this is the kind of musical we love easing into the new year with. It’s joyful, nostalgic and guaranteed to leave you humming your way home — the perfect summer theatre pick when you want something uplifting and familiar.
Blanc de Blanc Encore
When: Until February 2026
Where: The West End Electric, West End
If your idea of a great night out involves glamour, sass and a touch of chaos, Blanc de Blanc Encore is calling — or calling you back. Having already been dazzling Brisbane for months, this champagne-fuelled cabaret is built for repeat visits, with performers rotating in and out and no two nights ever feeling exactly the same. It’s bold, cheeky and completely indulgent, with a party atmosphere that makes every show feel like a celebration — immersive, sparkly and unapologetically fun.
Cluedo
When: 7 January – 1 February 2026
Where: Playhouse, QPAC
Whodunnit, but make it theatrical chaos. Inspired by the beloved board game, Cluedo is sure to be fast, funny and delightfully ridiculous, packed with twists, accusations and big personalities. It’s the kind of show that’s perfect for a mates’ night or low-pressure date — lighthearted, clever and more about laughs than solving the mystery perfectly.
The Great Gatsby
When: 12 February – 8 March 2026
Where: Playhouse, QPAC
All that jazz, drama and doomed romance — Gatsby arrives dripping in 1920s glamour. This stage adaptation (a co-production between Queensland Theatre Company and Shake + Stir) leans into the decadence and heartbreak of the classic story, with lush visuals and sweeping emotion. It looks bold, super stylish and exactly the sort of production that reminds you why some stories keep being retold.
MJ the Musical
When: From March 2026
Where: Lyric Theatre, QPAC
Big energy, iconic choreography and wall-to-wall hits — MJ the Musical promises a high-octane night at the theatre. This production dives into the music and movement that defined a generation, delivering spectacle, nostalgia and serious dance talent. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just love a crowd-pleasing musical, this one is set to be electric.
The Last Ship
When: 9 April – 3 May 2026
Where: Glasshouse Theatre, QPAC
Opening Brisbane’s new Glasshouse Theatre, The Last Ship brings something deeper and more reflective to the stage. Centred on community, change and identity, this is a powerful musical that leans into emotional storytelling rather than spectacle alone. It’s thoughtful, grounded and moving — the kind of show that stays with you long after the curtain falls.
Eat Slay Zombie
When: 14 – 30 May
Where: Roundhouse Theatre, Kelvin Grove
A bowling alley. Two best friends. A whole lot of zombies. Set in a post-apocalyptic world where TikTok is the only form of communication, Eat Slay Zombie follows Sheree and Tash — two Blak women bunkering down as the undead close in. When another survivor arrives, their carefully guarded isolation is challenged, forcing big questions about survival, trust and community. Co-directed by Alinta McGrady and Lisa Fa’alafi, this sharp horror-comedy aims to deliver laughs, social bite and zombie chaos.
Steel Magnolias
When: 30 April – 10 May 2026
Where: Playhouse, QPAC
Few plays capture friendship quite like Steel Magnolias. This beloved story of six women navigating life, love, loss and laughter is warm, funny and quietly devastating in the best way. Expect sharp dialogue, big heart and moments that will have you laughing one minute and blinking back tears the next.
Beetlejuice the Musical
When: From June 2026
Where: Lyric Theatre, QPAC
Loud, weird and gleefully unhinged, Beetlejuice is musical theatre at its most playful. With outrageous visuals, rapid-fire humour and a rebellious spirit, this show doesn’t take itself too seriously — and that’s exactly the point. It’s spooky fun with a modern edge, perfect if you like your theatre bold, irreverent and slightly chaotic.
Pride & Prejudice (2026 revival — return season)
When: 10 July – 26 July 2026
Where: Playhouse, QPAC
Jane Austen fans, rejoice — this much-loved production returns after previously sold-out performances were cut short by a signature Brisbane weather event. Smart, romantic and full of wit, this revival brings fresh energy to a timeless story, with a luminous all-Queensland cast. It’s charming, clever and a beautiful reminder of why this love story endures.
Strong Is the New Pretty (World Premiere — Brisbane)
When: 1 September – 19 September 2026
Where: Playhouse, QPAC
A world premiere on home turf is always exciting, and this one feels especially significant. Written by Suzie Miller, Strong Is the New Pretty explores the fight, belief and determination behind the creation of the AFLW. It’s powerful, timely and deeply human — blending sport, social change and storytelling into a production that feels both inspiring and urgent.
Into the Woods
When: 11 – 21 November 2026
Where: Glasshouse Theatre, QPAC
Sondheim’s beloved fairytale mash-up closes the year with wit, wonder and a darker edge. Into the Woods is clever, funny and emotionally rich, weaving familiar stories into something far more complex and surprising. It’s musical theatre for people who like a little depth with their magic — and a perfect note to end Brisbane’s big year on stage.
Come Alive: The Greatest Showman Spectacular
When: From 24 December 2026
Where: Royal Queensland Golf Course, Eagle Farm
This on stage version of the spectacle Hugh Jackman vehicle promises to … well, be spectacular! This dazzling musical celebration of The Greatest Showman, complete with circus flair and show-stopping vocals promises to be sparkly, uplifting, and ideal for those who love a big musical moment complete with acrobatic stunts and death-defying magic moments.
In her spare time, she likes long walks down the makeup aisle and performing in Brisbane theatre. You can follow her adventures on Instagram and TikTok @thebeautypalate.
