Sparkling line up for Frankston Arts Centre’s season 2024
Published on 24 November 2023
Frankston Arts Centre has unveiled a sparkling line up for season 2024 with a focus on compelling, world class entertainment to provide something for everyone.
The impressive new program was unveiled to 2024 members at an event, hosted by Head of Programming, Heidi Irvine, and featuring performers Claire Warrillow and Rune Nydal (The Sunshine Club), Jordan Pollard (The Tap Pack), Nina Ferro, Fem Belling and Belinda Parsons, accompanied by Stella Anning (A Very Big Band Christmas), and Brenda Bressed (Drag Bingo Brunch with Brenda).
Frankston City Mayor Nathan Conroy and Councillors Sue Baker, Claire Harvey and Brad Hill, as well as Council Manager Arts and Culture, Tammy Ryan, also attended.
Ms Irvine said when assembling the 2024 program, at the heart of it all was connection, adding: “If we have learnt anything from the world now, it’s human connection that defines us. Our understanding of who we are, how we want to live all boils down to the people who live in it.
“Who we choose to love, to befriend, to laugh with and to spend our time with. The world doesn’t make sense sometimes and we certainly can feel that any sense of normalcy or common sense is gone.
“But here, in this very special place – we can take a moment to escape. To learn more, to laugh, to cry. And with that human being onstage in front of you, and those around you – to connect.”
Season highlights include:
The Sunshine Club – a radiant and joyful Australian musical – where everyone is welcome and romances bloom. It's the summer of 1946 and the war is over. Aboriginal soldier Frank Doyle has spent years fighting shoulder-to-shoulder with troops from all over Australia, but when he steps onto the Brisbane wharf, he finds some things haven't changed. But Frank knows how to fight for his country. On Tuesday, 5 March 2024.
An Evening with the MSO: Jaime Conducts Enigma Variations – experience a captivating program of beloved English charmers, featuring some of the most popular orchestral music ever written and conducted by MSO’s Chief Conductor – Jaime Martin. On Saturday, 4 May 2024.
Simply Brill: “The Teens Who Stole Rock N Roll” – acclaimed entertainers Amelia Ryan, Michaela Burger and Michael Griffiths shine in this joyous, triumphant and awe-inspiring celebration of the songwriters who transformed 1960’s rock ‘n’ roll forever. On Thursday, 7 November 2024
Emma Donovan: Songs, Stories and Soul from Family and Country – witness the talent of ARIA-nominated, award-winning Indigenous singer and songwriter Emma Donovan and her band. Join us for this incredible concert where she will share stories, providing an understanding of Country and community. On Tuesday, 14 May 2024.
The Visitors – it’s January 1788 and a mysterious fleet is amassing in the harbour. Seven clan leaders must make a momentous decision: to send these strangers on their way or welcome them? An unmissable Moogahlin Performing Arts and Sydney Theatre Company production, written by Jane Harrison and directed by Wesley Enoch. On Tuesday, 6 August 2024
Guards at the Taj– at the grand opening of the Taj Mahal, the most beautiful building in the world, the Emperor decrees that nothing more beautiful shall ever be built again. Featuring a heart-breakingly funny friendship put to the ultimate test and existential banter reminiscent of Beckett and Stoppard, Guards at the Taj mixes witty black comedy with the bloodiest deeds of Greek tragedy. On Tuesday, 3 September 2024.
Humans 2.0 – a symphony of acrobatics, sound and light, this is next level circus by Circa. On Thursday, 18 April 2024.
Dirty Laundry – after 10 years of selling out festivals worldwide, the Briefs boys are touring to Frankston with their hills hoist poised ready to air their Dirty Laundry in this brand-new party cabaret. On Friday, 10 May 2024.
The Tap Pack – following sold-out shows and rave reviews on London’s West End, at Sydney Opera House and around the world, Australia’s hottest tap dance sensation, The Tap Pack is coming to Frankston! On Wednesday, 11 September 2024.
Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow – showcasing the finest talents from the 2024 Melbourne International Comedy Festival, we're delivering a dose of laughter right to your doorstep! On Sunday, 28 April 2024.
A Very Big Band Christmas – swing into the festive season with this enchanting holiday extravaganza. Starring the dynamic trio of Nina Ferro, Fem Belling and Belinda Parsons backed by the electrifying energy of a full Big Band. On Thursday, 19 December 2024.
Ms Irvine added: “The entertainment isn’t just for the adults as well – the Frankston Arts Centre prides itself on creating enriching experiences for our youngest and sometimes most discerning patrons, with a rich and divers family program.
“Koala boy bands, noise machines, ballet dancers, the human digestive system and a madcap restaurant are all part of this year’s family entertainment we have planned for you and your young people. It’s a wild ride and we cannot wait to share it with you.”
Kids entertainment includes Polite Mammals (Sunday 7 April), The Listies: Make Some Noise (Friday 5 July), The Peasant Prince (Tuesday 13 August), You Are a Doughnut (Thursday 26 September) and Bon Appetit (Saturday 5 October).
Daytime Music and Theatre – the second longest running Morning Melodies style program in Victoria, features a yearlong curated season of performances, ranging from music to theatre. Don’t miss performances by some of Australia’s best musical talent.
Frankston Arts Centre, 27 - 37 Davey Street, Frankston. For more information, please visit https://artscentre.frankston.vic.gov.au/Home or phone 9784 1060.