With the overarching tone of “For the Love of Theatre”, Queensland Theatre last night officially unveiled their 2025 season, presenting eight productions across their Billie Brown Theatre and the QPAC Playhouse. From newly crafted and commissioned works, to Queensland premieres, to some musical experiences to telling the important stories – there is an impressive line-up of offerings next year, in addition to other initiatives that are taking place behind the scenes around First Nations, Education and professional development opportunities for 2025, 2026 and beyond.
Queensland Theatre’s 2025 Season consists of:
Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice
13 February (Empire Theatre), 20 February – 9 March (QPAC Playhouse)
This theatrical adaptation of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, penned by award-winning writers Wendy Mocke and Lewis Treston, brings the timeless romance to life with a vibrant, all-Queensland cast. Directed by Bridget Boyle and Daniel Evans, the play celebrates Austen’s sharp wit and beloved characters, particularly the witty and independent Elizabeth Bennet, who navigates societal pressures and her growing connection with the aloof Mr. Darcy.
Calamity Jane
22 March – 17 April (Billie Brown Theatre)
This revival of Calamity Jane, adapted by Ronald Hanmer and Phil Park from the original stage play by Charles K. Freeman and directed by Richard Carroll, reimagines the classic musical with a fresh and gritty approach. Set in the wild town of Deadwood, it follows the swaggering sharpshooter Calamity Jane, portrayed by Naomi Price, as she navigates a world of admiration and mockery.
David Williamson’s Rhinestone Rex and Miss Monica
28 May – 21 June (Billie Brown Theatre)
David Williamson’s Rhinestone Rex and Miss Monica, directed by Mark Kilmurry, brings together Georgie Parker and Glenn Hazeldine in a comedic clash of opposites. Fifteen years after its debut, the play follows the unlikely relationship between Monica, an embittered former classical violinist, and Gary, a no-nonsense former country singer turned DJ. As the two bicker over everything from kitchen renovations to music, their witty banter reveals deeper connections.
Dear Son
28 June – 19 July (Billie Brown Theatre)
Dear Son, adapted by Isaac Drandic and John Harvey from Thomas Mayo’s book, presents a heartfelt reflection on First Nations fatherhood through letters from Indigenous men to their sons, fathers, or nephews. Featuring contributions from notable figures like Stan Grant and Troy Cassar-Daley, these personal messages convey love, wisdom, and hopes for the future. In 2025, this collection will be brought to the stage in a world premiere directed by Drandic, with performances by prominent First Nations actors Jimi Bani and Trevor Jamieson.
Julia
16 August – 30 August (QPAC Playhouse)
Julia, written by Joanna Murray-Smith and directed by Sarah Goodes, delves into the life of former Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard, focusing on the iconic 2012 speech that resonated worldwide. Through the performance of Justine Clarke, the play explores key moments in Gillard’s life, from her early years to her challenging journey in Australian politics.
Back to Bilo
3 September – 13 September (Billie Brown Theatre)
Malacañang Made Us
18 October – 1 November (Billie Brown Theatre)
Malacañang Made Us, written by Jordan Shea and directed by Kenneth Moraleda, explores the impact of the 1986 fall of President Ferdinand Marcos in the Philippines and its lasting effects on those who lived through it. The play follows brothers Martin and Ernie, who, after briefly seizing power during Marcos’ exile, reunite nearly 40 years later in Brisbane. As Martin’s son Leo reacts to the political resurgence of the Marcos family, long-buried family secrets and questions of love, duty, and rebellion surface. This play and Jordan Shea is the most recent winner of the Queensland Premier’s Drama Award from over 200 entries.
Aaron Sorkin’s A Few Good Men
22 November – 7 December (QPAC Playhouse)
Aaron Sorkin’s A Few Good Men takes to the stage under the direction of Daniel Evans as part of QPAC’s 40th Birthday celebrations, and the conclusion of Queensland Theatre’s 2025 season. This intense legal drama, inspired by real events at Guantanamo Bay in 1986, follows a group of military lawyers as they uncover a conspiracy behind the death of a US Marine. Known for its quickfire dialogue, the play critiques the dangerous consequences of unquestioning loyalty within the military. Can you handle the truth?
As of writing, tickets to see any of the above productions are available to purchase only to returning and new season ticket holders, with 3, 5, 6 and 8 play packages available to purchase now directly from Queensland Theatre either online, calling them during business hours (1800 355 528), or by visiting them with an appointment. Single ticket bookings will be available in the coming weeks. You can also check out their digital program for the 2025 season which contains more specifics about each show, and the initiatives being undertaken in 2025 – including their accessible performances (audio described, Auslan interpreted, relaxed performances and tactile tours), their First Nations initiatives, the “First 20” initiative and their Education initiatives for youth and the next generation of creatives – among others.
