2025 SEASON
JULY TO SEPTEMBER
Penrith Performing & Visual Arts (PP&VA) is comprised of the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre, Q Theatre, Penrith Conservatorium and Penrith Regional Gallery, Home of The Lewers Bequest, and represents a diverse and dynamic blend of creative practice in Western Sydney.
Acknowledgement of Traditional Owners
PP&VA acknowledges and pays respect to the Darug and Gundungarra people who are the traditional owners in which Penrith Local Government Area is situated. We also pay our respect to elders past, present and emerging, and to the First Nations people living in our community today.
WELCOME
JULY TO SEPTEMBER
We are thrilled to bring you a vibrant winter program at The Joan and Penrith Regional Gallery. Whether you’re in need of a laugh, family fun, mindful moments, new skills, a deep dive – or simply an escape – we’ve got you covered.
School holidays are sorted with creative programs to fuel young artists and performers. Families can escape the winter chill with the magic of Beetle, a blend of puppetry and physical theatre by Sydney’s acclaimed Legs On The Wall, ABC Kids Music favourites The Vegetable Plot, and the mind-bending tricks of acclaimed illusionist Jonas Jost in The Ultimate Magic Show
After putting Penrith on the map for comedy with record crowds for Sydney Comedy Festival, we’re keeping the laughs coming with Akmal, Daniel Delby, and Isaac Butterfield taking to our stages.
To mark NAIDOC Week and accompany the exhibition Blak Douglas: The Halfway Line, a special screening of the documentary Blak Douglas vs The Commonwealth will be held at The Joan, followed by a Q&A with the artist.
Music lovers will be spoilt for choice, with concerts spanning ragtime, disco, 1960s hits, and a tribute to David Bowie. Classical fans can enjoy masterpieces and operatic highlights from the Penrith Symphony Orchestra.
We’re proud to announce that Penrith Regional Gallery has been named one of just five exhibition partner venues for the 25th Biennale of Sydney in 2026 – an honour that will bring international artists and new audiences to our region.
Plus, The Joan is turning 35. Designed by renowned architect Phillip Cox, it opened on 14 August 1990 with a Gala featuring Dame Joan Sutherland and Richard Bonynge. Since then, The Joan has stood at the heart of Penrith’s cultural life, showcasing world-class music, theatre, dance, comedy, cabaret, and more.
With so much to see and do, we look forward to welcoming you.
Krissie Scudds CEO, Penrith Performing & Visual Arts
Photo by Scott Richardson
NAIDOC WEEK AT PENRITH REGIONAL GALLERY
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Celebrate NAIDOC Week at Penrith Regional Gallery with a vibrant week of art, culture and creativity honouring the 2025 theme: The Next Generation – Strength, Vision and Legacy
Experience the powerful exhibition Blak Douglas: The Halfway Line and Deadly Arts: Nepean Creative and Performing Arts . Then enjoy a range of free drop-in artmaking activities for families inspired by the stories and spirit of the exhibitions.
Plus, don’t miss the screening of documentary Blak Douglas vs The Commonwealth , followed by a Q&A with Blak Douglas at The Joan on Tuesday 8 July.
Mon 7 Jul – Fri 11 Jul
TICKETS | From $15
Photo
Eddy Summers
WINTER SCHOOL HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS
PENRITH REGIONAL GALLERY WORKSHOPS
Unleash your creativity with Penrith Regional Gallery’s hands-on workshops inspired by our exhibitions! Sculpt animals from clay, sketch a story from your imagination, or introduce your preschooler to art through creative play.
Plus, enjoy free drop-in artmaking activities during NAIDOC Week.
Q THEATRE DRAMA AND DANCE WORKSHOPS
Join Q Theatre for a dynamic line-up of inclusive and interactive workshops for young creatives and adults. Choose from imaginative storytelling, contemporary dance and theatre making. Don’t miss the special Show Reel professional workshop for adults, and the playful morning workshop for little ones.
Book by 23 June and save $10. Book for you and a friend using the code FRIEND25 and save $10.
Mon 7 Jul – Tue 15 Jul Mon 7
TICKETS | From $25
Creative Kids Vouchers accepted
TICKETS | From $40
Creative Kids Vouchers accepted
Photo by Eddy Summers
Rabbit presents Daniel Delby Entertainment presents
ISAAC BUTTERFIELD
After racking up millions of views on YouTube to sold-out shows across Australia, New Zealand and beyond, Australia’s favourite bearded menace is heading to Penrith.
This is stand-up comedy with no safety net –just brutal honesty and belly laughs. Nothing is off-limits. Bring your sense of humour (and a thick skin).
TEACHER COMEDY NIGHT WITH DANIEL DELBY
After two sell-out shows, award-winning comedian and ex-teacher Daniel Delby returns to The Joan with his hit show.
Packed with hilarious stories, student work samples, interactive games, and relatable sketches, no two shows are the same! Whether you’re a teacher or just survived school, get ready for a night of non-stop laughs.
Sat 12 Jul 6:30pm & 8:30pm Sat 12 Jul 7:30pm
TICKETS | From $59.95
TICKETS | From $45
Unreal Productions presents
THE ULTIMATE MAGIC SHOW
MAGICIAN AND ILLUSIONIST JONAS JOST
Featuring hilarious comedy and mind-blowing magic, this highly interactive show allows kids to become part of the onstage action. Guaranteed to delight kids and adults alike.
A-List Entertainment presents
AKMAL
Akmal Saleh (Thank God You’re Here, Have You been Paying Attention?) returns with a smash-hit tour after a spiritual journey to India to find himself. Unfortunately, when he got there, he couldn’t see himself anywhere, after all India is a big place…
Tue 15 Jul 11am & 2pm Fri 18 Jul 8pm
TICKETS | From $34.90
TICKETS | From $49.90
The Harbour Agency presents
DISCO REVOLUTION: NIGHT FEVER
Relive classic hits from Earth, Wind & Fire, Donna Summer, The Bee Gees and more, plus Disco Revolution’s latest tracks. A night of timeless disco magic and memories!
“A whiplash-inducing rollercoaster of comedic chaos.” Fringefeed
A-List Entertainment presents
ROSS NOBLE: CRANIUM OF CURIOSITIES
He is the Wizard of Waffle, The Rambler Royale, The Noodlers’ Noodler, and he’s back live on stage to tour a tornado of tangents. What the show will be about is anybody’s guess, but that’s all part of the fun when you look inside his Cranium of Curiosities.
Sat 19 Jul 7pm Fri 12 Sep 8pm
TICKETS | From $65
TICKETS | From $54.90
MORNING MELODIES
PETER COUSENS AND FRIENDS
Prepare to be dazzled as award-winning actor and singer Peter Cousens (Les Misérables, The Phantom of the Opera) returns to The Joan to perform his favourite songs, alongside an extraordinary lineup of guest artists.
AT 10AM!
Get ready for high-energy performances from some of your all-time favourites at our monthly morning variety concerts!
ROBBIE MANN AND HIS RAGTIME BAND
Join Robbie Mann and his Ragtime Band for a lively morning of rags, blues, and early jazz. From Joplin to Jelly Roll and beyond, this is a rare ragtime treat not to be missed!
Wed 23 Jul 11am Wed 27 Aug 11am
TICKETS | From $22
ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY BAND –LAST NIGHT OF THE PROMS
Marvel as the 40-piece Royal Australian Navy Band marks the 130th anniversary of The Proms. Enjoy a thrilling mix of classical favourites by Strauss, Wagner, Elgar, and Britten, celebrating the iconic tradition of London’s promenade concerts.
Wed 24 Sep 11am
PENRITH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
CLASSICAL MASTERPIECES –BEETHOVEN & BRUCH SYMPHONIC SERIES III
The bold spirit of Beethoven’s Egmont Overture sets the stage for an afternoon of powerful emotion and masterful composition. Then, be swept away by the Second Symphony, full of fiery energy and raw intensity, and Bruch’s richly romantic Double Concerto.
OPERA GALA SYMPHONIC SERIES III
A magical evening of opera comes to the Joan, with wonderful moments from some of the greatest exponents of the genre. Penrith Symphony Orchestra welcomes back two compelling artists from Opera Australia in an unmissable program, featuring Mozart, Rossini, Verdi, Bizet and Pucinni.
Sun 3 Aug 3pm Sat 13 Sep 7:30pm
TICKETS | From $25
TICKETS | From $25
GLOBAL SENSATION
“An imaginative fusion of puppetry and physical theatre… an immersive children’s show that will inspire wonder in grown-ups too.”
The Scotsman
AGES6–14
BEETLE BY LEGS ON THE WALL
Join Sally and her backyard friend as they encounter larger than life beetles, stick insects and bush critters on their quest to discover the now elusive Christmas Beetle.
See the magic of the Australian bush spring to life on stage through Legs On The Wall’s signature physical storytelling, giant puppets, and animations of original artworks by beloved children’s author and illustrator Freya Blackwood (recently shortlisted for The Children’s Book Council of Australia Awards 2025 for Afloat and The Garden of Broken Things).
A feast for the senses, this heartwarming, nostalgic tale of hope reminds of us of the delicate balance of the natural world and the power of small voices.
Fri 8 Aug 11am, 6pm & Sat 9 Aug 11am
TICKETS | From $35
Photo by Alex Luke McLeod
JOHN WATERS: RADIO LUXEMBOURG LIVE
Iconic star of stage and screen John Waters celebrates the songs of the British Pop Invasion that changed modern music from Waterloo Sunset to My Generation . Featuring Stewart D’Arrietta and The Chartbusters.
ASHES TO ASHES: DAVID BOWIE EXPERIENCE
Relive the magic of David Bowie with Ashes to Ashes – a world-class tribute to one of rock’s greatest icons.
With stunning authenticity and electrifying stage presence, the band brings Bowie’s timeless hits and hidden gems to life.
Sat 16 Aug 8pm Sat 20 Sep 8pm
TICKETS | From $69.90
TICKETS | $49
PENRITH YOUTH ORCHESTRA AND THE AUSTRALIAN HAYDN ENSEMBLE
Join us for a special concert as the Penrith Youth Orchestra collaborates with the acclaimed Australian Haydn Ensemble.
This unique performance blends the vibrant energy of Western Sydney’s emerging young musicians with the exquisite artistry of Australia’s leading period-instrument specialists.
Enjoy a captivating afternoon of music by Mozart, Dvořák, and more – an inspiring celebration of talent, tradition, and collaboration.
Sun 14 Sep 3pm
Photo by Eddy Summers
The Joan presents
THE VEGETABLE PLOT –PINEAPPLE PEOPLE
Get ready for a freshly sliced serving of musical comedy with the brand-new live show from multi award-winning Australian children’s band The Vegetable Plot, starring Aspara Gus, Ru Barb, Sir Paul McCarrotney and Avo Kaydo.
Bursting with juicy songs, funky flavours and tropi-cool puppetry, this delightfully zingy concert is a fruitastic family adventure that is guaranteed to have you smiling from the inside out.
Enhance your experience - pear the show with tickets to The Vegetable Plot’s Magical Garden Music and Songwriting Workshop!
Show: Sat 27 Sep 10am & 2pm
Workshop: Sat 27 Sep 11:45am
SPRING SCHOOL HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS
Q THEATRE DRAMA AND DANCE WORKSHOPS
Let your creativity bloom this Spring with Q Theatre’s fun and inclusive drama and dance workshops. Young aspiring performers can choose from First Nations dance, storytelling, stage combat and movement, whilst adults will have the opportunity to delve into the world of Shakespeare. Don’t miss out on the HSC Set Design workshop or the special musical theatre workshop for people living with disability. Book by 14 September and save $10. Book for you and a friend using the code FRIEND25 and save $10.
PENRITH REGIONAL GALLERY WORKSHOPS
Spark your child’s or teen’s imagination with hands-on art workshops at the Gallery.
Led by experienced artist educators, participants will explore themes from the Spring exhibitions; from star maps and hibiscus blooms to bold colour explorations using stop-motion animation, printmaking and collage. All materials and equipment are provided.
Plus, enjoy free drop-in activities for kids and families!
Tue 30 Sep – Thu 9 Oct
TICKETS | From $60
On sale 22 July
Tue 30 Sep – Fri 10 Oct
TICKETS | From $25
On sale 22 July
Creative Kids Vouchers accepted
Photo by Eddy Summers
Photo by Jacquie Manning
PENRITH CON SEMESTER 2
PRIVATE MUSIC LESSONS
Penrith Con offers expert tuition across a wide range of disciplines from voice, piano, guitar, drums, strings, woodwind and bass, to speech and drama, songwriting and music composition.
Students of all ages and skill levels are welcome. Whether you’re learning for fun, preparing for AMEB exams, HSC performance, or aiming for a professional concert standard, our experienced tutors will support and guide you every step of the way.
GROUP LESSONS
Try out a new instrument and broaden your musical horizons with Penrith Con’s fun and affordable group lessons. These classes are perfect for learning the fundamentals of an instrument before transitioning into private lessons.
In Semester Two, we are offering:
Early Childhood Music Classes for Ages 18 months – 5 years
Keyboard and Violin for Ages 5 – 8
Ukulele and Con Singers Collective for Adults
Term 3:
Mon 21 Jul – Fri 26 Sep
Term 4: Mon 13 Oct – Fri 19 Dec
PRICES | From $450 per term
Creative Kids Vouchers accepted
Term 3: Mon 4 Aug – Fri 26 Sep
Term 4: Mon 27 Oct – Fri 19 Dec
PRICES | From $120 per term
Creative Kids Vouchers accepted
Photo by Eddy Summers
Photo by Eddy Summers
STUDIO Q SEMESTER 2
JUNIOR PERFORMANCE ENSEMBLE
Studio Q’s Junior Performance Ensemble invites passionate young performers in Western Sydney to experience the excitement of a full-scale production in a professional theatre. Over 16 weeks, participants will rehearse and perform a full-length play under the mentorship of an established industry director.
Entry by audition only. Auditions will take place Friday 20 June, 4:30pm – 7:30pm. Book your audition on our website.
ADULT ACTING CLASS
Join Q Theatre for two 8-week acting classes and expand your craft.
In Term 3: Acting – Developing Character, you will build authentic layered characters through scene work, text analysis and improvisation. Then, in Term 4: Screen Acting, you will discover the fundamentals of on-camera performance; from framing, to camera presence, and emotional nuance.
These courses are perfect for beginners and those looking to refine their skills.
Fri, 4:30pm - 7:30pm
Term 3: 1 Aug - 19 Sept
Term 4: 17 Oct - 28 Nov
Final Performances: Sat 29 & Sun 30 Nov
Tues, 5pm – 8pm
Term 3: 1 Aug - 19 Sept
Term 4: 17 Oct - 30 Nov
Photo by Eddy Summers
Photo by Eddy Summers
STUDIO Q SEMESTER 2
Unlock your creativity with Studio Q’s inclusive term-based drama and dance classes for young people, adults 18+ who are neurodiverse, D/deaf, or living with disability and mature-aged community members.
DRAMA CLASSES
STARTING OUT
FROM AGES 5 – 8
Short Scripted Play and Building Characters.
Term 3: Fri 1 Aug - Fri 19 Sep
Term 4: Fri 17 Oct - Fri 19 Dec
PRICES | From $204
STEPPING UP
FROM AGES 5 – 12
Playbuilding and Film Acting.
IGNITE
FROM AGES 13 – 16
Group Devised Performance, Film Acting and Cinematography.
Book for the entire semester (Terms 3 and 4) to receive a significant discount, or enrol siblings to take advantage of our special sibling discount. We accept Creative Kids Vouchers for our Young People ensembles and NDIS Funds for our Access Ensemble.
Photos by Eddy Summers
ELEVATE
FROM AGES 18 – 23
Short Film and Live Theatre.
ACCESS ENSEMBLE
FOR PARTICIPANTS LIVING WITH DISABILITY AGED 18+ Support workers welcome.
DANCE CLASSES
AGILE NOT FRAGILE
FOR MATURE AGED PARTICIPANTS (55+)
ANNUAL SHOWCASE
Join us for a magical afternoon as our Studio Q drama and dance students take to the stage to showcase their creativity and present an original performance celebrating their artistic journey over Semester 2.
TICKETS | From $25 Sat 6 Sep 2pm
COMING SOON
Here is a taste of the incredible events we are bringing your way in Spring.
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Kids and Families
Cameo Rascale Entertainment presents
CIRQUE NOUVELLE
Prepare to be amazed as our quirky ring master takes you on a journey – witness riveting acts from around Australia presenting a new evolution of circus. Expect to see acrobatics, juggling, aerials, balancing, contortion and many more jaw dropping feats! This show is guaranteed to thrill, capture and captivate the whole family.
Music
Penrith Conservatorium of Music presents
CHOPIN: A STRANGER IN PARIS
Step into the world of Chopin – exiled, yearning, and achingly poetic. Pianist Emmanuel Despax, joined by the Richard Bonynge Ensemble, traces the soul of a composer caught between homelands.
From the tender Berceuse to the storm of Sonata No. 2, and a rare, intimate arrangement of the Piano Concerto No. 1, this evening unveils Chopin’s heart in its most vulnerable, luminous light.
Photo
Benjamin Ealovega
by Eddy Summers
Music
Penrith Symphony Orchestra presents
ROMANTIC EPICS
SYMPHONIC SERIES IV
Experience an exhilarating evening of music, beginning with Borodin’s Polovtsian Dances –a thrilling orchestral spectacle. Violinist Lara Dowdeswell takes the stage for Saint-Saëns’ Introduction and Rondo Capriccioso, a dazzling showcase of lyricism and technical brilliance. The program concludes with Brahms’ richly melodic Symphony No. 2 , written in the serene surroundings of Pörtschach in 1877.
Music
Penrith Conservatorium of Music presents
PENRITH YOUTH ORCHESTRA SEASON FINALE
Celebrate the culmination of a remarkable season with the Penrith Youth Orchestra in a powerful finale concert that highlights the next generation of musical talent.
This special performance features the Richard Bonynge Ensemble, a dynamic group of early-career musicians and seasoned professionals dedicated to community enrichment through music.
Photo
ACCESSIBILITY
The Joan is committed to providing inclusive, quality arts experiences for all audience members.
Wheelchair and Level Access
• Level access is available to the ground floor foyer, including Box Office.
• All levels of The Joan are accessible by a lift.
• Box Office has an accessible counter.
• Wheelchair seating is available in all theatres.
Accessible Toilets
Accessible bathrooms are located on the Ground Floor and Level 2.
Baby Change Facilities and Pram Parking
Baby change facilities are located on Ground Floor. Pram parking is available for all kids and family shows – please talk to an usher when you arrive at the theatre.
Companion Cards
Companion Cards are valid for all performances.
Relaxed Performances
Relaxed performances aim to reduce anxiety and provide a supportive environment for patrons with autism, learning disabilities, and sensory or communication needs. Theatre etiquette, such as noise and movement, is more relaxed. The performance may be accompanied by a visual story or sensory guide.
We are happy to assist with requests for specific seating, audio or other requirements. Please let us know when booking your tickets.
Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre
PO Box 2 | 597 High Street Penrith | Penrith NSW 2751 Box Office | 02 4723 7600 | boxoffice@penrith.city @JoanSutherlandPerformingArtsCentre | @the_joan | thejoan.com.au
HOW TO BOOK
thejoan.com.au
Phone
(02) 4723 7600
In Person
Joan Sutherland
Performing Arts Centre, 597 High Street, Penrith
Box Office
Box Office is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 4:30pm and one-hour prior to performances.
Ticket Information
Scan the QR code on each page or visit our website for the most up-to-date ticket information. Concession pricing is available for pensioners, Australian Government Health Care Card and Seniors Card holders, as well as full-time tertiary and school students. Discounts are available to select performances for Q Theatre and Penrith Conservatorium students. Please refer to our website for full details.
Booking Fee
A $5 fee applies to all transactions.
School Bookings
School groups receive 1 complimentary teacher per 10 student tickets booked unless otherwise stipulated on our website.
STAY IN THE LOOP
Get the latest news, events, and offers by signing up to our mailing list. Visit thejoan.com.au or scan the QR code.
EXHIBITIONS
HIBISCUS
Hibiscus unites Angela Tiatia and Philip Juster, whose works reimagine Pacific stories and challenge cultural perceptions through collage.
00:07:45 min; aspect ratio 32:9.
Art
Purchased with funds provided by the Contemporary Collection Benefactors and Atelier 2022 to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Contemporary Collection Benefactors. ©Angela Tiatia. Image ©Art Gallery of New South Wales.
Image credit: Angela Tiatia, The Pearl, 2021.Single-channel digital video, colour, sound; duration
Gallery of New South Wales.
AT PENRITH REGIONAL GALLERY
SHIREEN TAWEEL: EDGE OF THE C
Edge of the C explores future space migration through Arabic scientific and spiritual histories, as Shireen Taweel uses copper works to reclaim celestial navigation and imagine inclusive futures beyond Earth.
Image credit: Shireen Taweel, instrument three, 2024, hand engraved and pierced copper. Image taken by Document Photography, courtesy of the artist and STATION Gallery.
VENUE HIRE AT THE JOAN
Host your next event at The Joan and make it truly unforgettable. With versatile spaces including a 550-seat concert hall, 378-seat theatre, 90-seat studio, meeting rooms, café, flexible cabaret-style Borland Foyer, and bar, we have it all. Conveniently located on Penrith High Street, just steps from the library and Westfield.
SUPPORT US
Help keep the arts and culture thriving in Western Sydney. Every donation of $2 or more is tax-deductible and directly supports community programs, local artists, students, teachers, the conservation of public sculptures, and the accessibility of our programs for all.
Photo by Eddy Summers
Photo by Eddy Summers
FOR HIRE
VENUE HIRE AT THE GALLERY
Set on the picturesque banks of the Nepean River, the Gallery offers an idyllic backdrop for weddings, celebrations, corporate events, and photography. Private functions are catered by the on-site café, Cafe at Lewers, who are renowned for delivering fresh, exciting dining experiences.
THE GALLERY STORE
Open daily 10am – 3:30pm, pop into the Gallery Store to find a perfect gift for someone special or to treat yourself. Choose from ceramics, textiles, glassware, jewellery, homewares, exhibitions publications, as well as locally sourced gift chocolates, honey and handmade First Nations items.
Photo by Brushtail Photography
FOR HIRE
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
School Holidays at The Joan and Penrith Regional Gallery
Akmal and Ross Noble: Cranium of Curiosities
Disco Revolution: Night Fever, John Waters: Radio Luxembourg Live
Penrith Conservatorium Private Music Lessons and Group Classes
Q Theatre Masterclasses and Studio Q Workshops
Penrith Symphony Orchestra Beetle
Beetle is commissioned by the North Australian Festival of Arts (NAFA) and The Art House – Wyong and was supported by Inner West Council. The 2025 tour has been assisted by the Australian Government through Creative Australia, its principal arts investment and advisory body, and the NSW Government through Create NSW.
Penrith Youth Orchestra and the Australian Haydn Ensemble
Chopin: A Stranger in Paris
Penrith Youth Orchestra Season Finale
Penrith Regional Gallery Exhibitions
Hibiscus
Thanks to Our Supporters
BOARD MEMBERS
Adam Porter (Chairperson)
Dale Maxwell-Smith (Deputy Chairperson)
Cllr Kristie Boerst
Don Church
Cllr Robin Cook
Cllr Ross Fowler OAM
Andrew Jackson
Melissa Matheson
Alison McLaren
Amanda Rudolf
PP&VA GOVERNMENT PARTNERS
PP&VA SPONSOR
PP&VA ACCOMMODATION PARTNER
Details of this brochure are correct at time of printing. PP&VA reserves the right to add, withdraw and substitute artists and vary the programme where necessary.
