Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) Brisbane
Iconic brutalist venue hosting premier theatre, music, ballet, and comedy across multiple performance spaces.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Prime time for shows
Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) Brisbane
Best Time
Prime time for shows

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic brutalist venue hosting premier theatre, music, ballet, and comedy across multiple performance spaces.
"Still feel that special, magical energy of creativity whenever I attend."
Booster Cushions Available
Need a boost? QPAC's Playhouse offers booster cushions for shorter patrons. Just ask at the theatre door! :seat:
Check Seating Views Online
For 'SIX' or other Playhouse shows, use the 'Photo View' option on other event seat selections to gauge your view. :camera:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Lyric Theatre
Experience grand-scale musicals and theatrical productions in this stunning venue.

The Playhouse
An intimate setting perfect for plays, comedy, and smaller musical performances.

Concert Hall
Home to orchestral performances, QPAC's Concert Hall offers exceptional acoustics.
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Seat Selection Savvy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Booster Cushions Available
Need a boost? QPAC's Playhouse offers booster cushions for shorter patrons. Just ask at the theatre door! :seat:
Check Seating Views Online
For 'SIX' or other Playhouse shows, use the 'Photo View' option on other event seat selections to gauge your view. :camera:
Book Tickets Early
Popular shows like 'SIX' sell out fast! Secure your spot by booking in advance. :ticket:
Contact QTIX for Help
No ticket email? Call QTIX on 136 246 or email info@qtix.com.au. They're helpful! :iphone:
Tips
from all over the internet
Booster Cushions Available
Need a boost? QPAC's Playhouse offers booster cushions for shorter patrons. Just ask at the theatre door! :seat:
Check Seating Views Online
For 'SIX' or other Playhouse shows, use the 'Photo View' option on other event seat selections to gauge your view. :camera:
Book Tickets Early
Popular shows like 'SIX' sell out fast! Secure your spot by booking in advance. :ticket:
Contact QTIX for Help
No ticket email? Call QTIX on 136 246 or email info@qtix.com.au. They're helpful! :iphone:
Consider Balcony Seats
For the Playhouse, front-row balcony seats offer a good view, even if not dead center. :eyes:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
QPAC is lauded for its high-quality, world-renowned productions and the magical energy it evokes across generations. Visitors appreciate the friendly and attentive staff, timely food service, and the intimate atmosphere of venues like the Concert Hall. While tickets can be pricey, affordable rear seating options and the overall exceptional experience make it a worthwhile occasional treat.
"My grandma took me to see a show here when I was a child. I have continued to watch productions here over the decades and still feel that special, magical energy of creativity whenever I attend. Tickets can be pricey however it's worth it, even just as an occasional treat. Also there are normally seats towards the back that are quite affordable so you don't have to miss out. A beautiful theatre with high quality, world renowned shows"
Rachel Henderson
"Nice atmosphere with friendly and attentive staff. Food came out in a timely manner and was well presented. Staff were eager to help. There is a variety of options for the menu and the serving size is acceptable."
Steve Smith
"Went and saw Electric Fields in the Concert Hall. Was blown away by how intimate it felt from our seats - some venues don’t have that same atmosphere. Great venue. Helpful staff."
Russian K
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
QPAC is located in South Brisbane, easily accessible by public transport. You can take a bus or train to the South Brisbane station, which is a short walk away. Ferries also dock nearby at the South Bank ferry terminal. Driving is an option, with parking available at QPAC and surrounding areas, though it can be pricey.
Yes, QPAC offers secure underground parking. Entry is via Stanley Street. It's recommended to book parking in advance, especially for popular shows, as it can fill up quickly.
Many visitors opt for public transport to avoid parking hassles and costs. The South Brisbane train and bus stations are conveniently located nearby.
Absolutely! There are designated drop-off and pick-up zones for taxis and rideshare services, making it easy to get to and from your performance.
Yes, you can take the Airtrain from Brisbane Airport to the South Brisbane station, which is a short walk from QPAC.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased online through the official QPAC website or QTIX (QPAC's ticketing partner). You can also buy tickets in person at the QPAC Box Office.
QPAC's Box Office is typically open Monday to Saturday from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, and Sundays from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. However, hours may vary on public holidays and performance days. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
For popular shows, it's unlikely you'll find tickets on the day. However, for less in-demand performances, last-minute tickets might be available at the Box Office. It's always best to book in advance.
Refunds are generally only offered if a performance is cancelled or significantly rescheduled. Please refer to the QTIX terms and conditions for detailed information on their refund policy.
Many shows now offer digital tickets that can be displayed on your smartphone. Check your ticket confirmation for specific instructions. If you prefer, you can usually print your tickets at home.
🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience
The 'best' seats depend on the theatre and your preference. For the Playhouse, Rows G-J are generally excellent, and booster cushions are available for shorter patrons. In the Lyric Theatre, Row H in the center or the first row of the first balcony are often recommended. For the Concert Hall, central seats in Rows J, K, or L are popular. Always check the seating plan!
Yes, some seats may have restricted views due to the theatre's architecture or stage equipment. These are usually clearly marked on the seating plan and are often sold at a reduced price.
There is no strict dress code at QPAC. Most patrons dress smart casual. For major opening nights or formal events, some may dress up, but it's not required.
Generally, photography and videography are not permitted inside the theatres during performances to avoid distracting performers and other audience members. Check signage or ask ushers for specific venue rules.
QPAC offers restrooms, cloakrooms, bars, and cafes. Accessible facilities are also available throughout the venue.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, QPAC has several dining options, including bars and cafes, offering a range of snacks, light meals, and beverages. These are convenient for pre-show or interval refreshments.
Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted inside the theatres. However, you can purchase items from QPAC's bars and cafes to enjoy before the show or during the interval.
QPAC's dining options typically include sandwiches, salads, pastries, coffee, and alcoholic beverages. The menu can vary depending on the venue and specific event.
No, there is no strict dress code for dining at QPAC's cafes and bars. Smart casual attire is perfectly acceptable.
Yes, many of QPAC's bars and cafes allow you to pre-order food and drinks for the interval, saving you time and ensuring you don't miss any of the show.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of QPAC, with its distinctive brutalist architecture, offers great photo opportunities. The foyers and lobbies also provide interesting backdrops.
Photography is usually allowed in the public areas like foyers and lobbies before and after performances. However, taking photos or videos inside the actual performance spaces is typically prohibited.
QPAC is part of the South Bank Parklands precinct, which offers numerous picturesque spots, including the Streets Beach and the Brisbane Riverwalk, perfect for capturing your visit.
A smartphone camera is usually sufficient for capturing the architecture and atmosphere. If you're interested in low-light performance photography (where permitted), a camera with good low-light capabilities would be beneficial, though often restricted.
For professional photoshoots, you would likely need to seek permission from QPAC management. Casual photography for personal use is generally fine in public areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While QPAC doesn't have dedicated play areas, the surrounding South Bank Parklands offer plenty of space for kids to run around before or after a show, including the popular Streets Beach. Dining options at QPAC are generally family-friendly, with cafes offering snacks and light meals. It's advisable to check the QPAC website for upcoming family-friendly productions and book tickets in advance, as these can be very popular.
💰 Budget Travelers
Keep an eye out for special offers or last-minute ticket releases, though these are not guaranteed. Alternatively, consider attending free events or performances that might be held in the QPAC precinct or surrounding South Bank area, especially during festivals. The stunning brutalist architecture of QPAC itself is free to admire from the outside, making it a visually interesting landmark even if you're not attending a show.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating QPAC's Theatres
When selecting seats, consider the venue's layout. For instance, the Playhouse is known for being a smaller theatre, meaning most seats offer a good view. However, for those who are shorter, Reddit users consistently recommend utilizing the booster cushions available at the theatre entrance to improve sightlines. In larger venues like the Lyric, specific rows in the stalls or the front of the balcony are often cited as prime viewing locations. Always consult the detailed seating charts available on the QPAC or QTIX website, and leverage community insights for the most informed decision.
Beyond the main theatres, QPAC also houses the Cremorne Theatre, which is a flexible studio space for more experimental or smaller productions. The architectural style of QPAC itself, a striking example of brutalist concrete, also makes its exterior and foyers worthy of appreciation and photography. The overall experience at QPAC is enhanced by its commitment to accessibility, with facilities and seating options designed to accommodate a wide range of patrons.
Choosing Your Perfect Seat
In the Lyric Theatre, central seats in Row H are often considered ideal, offering a balanced view of the stage. The first few rows of the first balcony also provide a good vantage point. For the Concert Hall, rows J, K, or L in the center are frequently suggested for their optimal balance of proximity and overall stage view. It's worth noting that the balcony in the Concert Hall does overhang the stalls, so seats further back in the stalls might have a slightly obstructed view depending on the stage setup.
When booking, especially for popular shows like 'SIX', it's crucial to check the seating plan carefully. Some Reddit users have found success using the 'Photo View' option available for other events in the Playhouse to gauge sightlines. Remember that ticket prices often reflect seat location, so there are usually more affordable options towards the back or sides that still offer a perfectly enjoyable experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit