Top 10 shows to see in Brisbane
We’ve rounded up the top 10 must-see shows you won’t want to miss from January to June 2026.
Brisbane, Australia's lifestyle capital, has a full schedule of exciting shows to enjoy in the first half of 2026. No matter if you like ballet, stand-up comedy, or music, there’s something for every culture lover.
Add these top 10 must-see shows to your calendar.
Olafur Eliasson: Presence, GOMA – until 12 July
The Brisbane-exclusive exhibition, Olafur Eliasson: Presence, draws from the 3‑decade career of Icelandic-Danish artist Olafur Eliasson. Spanning GOMA’s ground floor galleries, it includes important early works and expansive site-specific installations.
Choose your path through an ancient landscape. Experience moments that increase awareness and imagine the future of our city.
Make a day of it by visiting one of the many cafes, restaurants and bars nearby.
Swingers - The Art of Mini Golf, Brisbane Powerhouse – 10 January to 1 March
A hole new world, Swingers – The Art of Mini Golf arrives at the Brisbane Powerhouse. Discover an interactive exhibition of rebellion and play for the curious, the competitive. This is for anyone bold enough to swing outside the lines.
Play your way through 9 adventurous mini golf holes. Leading female artists designed the holes. Explore the game’s subversion history and the untold obstacles along its path.
BrisAsia Festival, various suburbs across Brisbane – 13-22 February
Ignite your spirit and celebrate the Lunar New Year at BrisAsia Festival 2026. This popular festival is Brisbane’s biggest showcase of Asian culture, cuisine, art and music.
Lunar New Year (Year of the Horse), Fortitude Valley – 21-22 February
Join us to celebrate Lunar New Year from 21-22 February in Fortitude Valley. Enjoy live performances, cultural markets, and your favourite Asian foods.
Pulp, Riverstage – 24 February
Pulp just released their praised 2025 album, More. They are finally returning to Australia after 13 years.
This band was a key part of the Britpop movement in the mid to late 1990s. They'll bring their unique sound to the Riverstage in February.
Josh Groban - GEMS World Tour, Queensland Performing Arts Centre – 4 March
Don't miss the exciting return of Tony®, EMMY®, and five-time GRAMMY® Award-nominated artist Josh Groban. He is bringing the GEMS World Tour to Australia.
Josh Groban has a natural talent for captivating fans around the world. He is a powerful vocalist and a dynamic artist.
He has sold over 35 million albums globally. He has headlined famous venues on many continents. He has also entertained audiences with his film and TV appearances.
Make a night of it at nearby Fish Lane. Enjoy a pre-show drink at Maeve Wine Bar or dinner at authentic Italian, Julius Pizzeria.
MJ the Musical, Queensland Performing Arts Centre – from 27 March
He is one of the greatest entertainers of all time. Now, award-winning MJ the Musical will thrill audiences in Brisbane by showcasing Michael Jackson's music and life.
The musical focuses on the 1992 Dangerous World Tour. It shows more than just Michael Jackson's famous dance moves and unique sound. The show gives insight into his creative mind and collaborative spirit that catapulted him to fame.
Brisbane Comedy Festival Opening Gala 2026, Fortitude Music Hall– 24 April
Brisbane Comedy Festival Opening Gala returns in 2026, sizzling like a sun-baked sidewalk in February.
The festivities begin at the lively Fortitude Music Hall, serving as your yearly reminder that humour triumphs over wisdom. This night features prominent comedy stars and new talents. Brisbane will stay up late laughing so much that the river might even change direction.
Expect bold jokes, big energy and the kind of laughter that makes you question your bladder control.
For more about the Brisbane Comedy Festival, which runs from 24 May to 24 June, visit Brisbane Comedy Festival.
Antigone, La Boite Theatre – 5-21 May
Antigone explodes onto the Roundhouse stage with raw energy and unflinching relevance.
A dynamic interpretation of Sophocles’ timeless tragedy, centred on a fearless young woman who refuses to stay silent.
When Antigone goes against the king’s order to leave her brother unburied, she starts a fierce battle. This battle is between her beliefs and the king's power.
Elastic Hearts featuring the music of Sia, Thomas Dixon Centre – 30 April to 2 May
Famous choreographer Garry Stewart teams up with Queensland Ballet to create Elastic Hearts. Elliott Wheeler reimagined Sia's music for the show. The Queensland Symphony Orchestra recorded the orchestral score.
Emotionally charged and visually spectacular, Elastic Hearts is a celebration of humanity’s power to bend, adapt, and endure.
More things to see and do
Read more articles on things to see and do in Brisbane.
Note: This featured content is designed to inspire residents and visitors to plan a day exploring Brisbane. Brisbane City Council disclaims any relationship with, or endorsement of, businesses featured in this article.