Shows take centre stage

THE City of Greater Bendigo’s events program for the year was officially launched last Sunday at the Ulumbarra Theatre, and it includes some big names.

On the list of upcoming performances for the year include Bangarra Dance Theatre, Opera Australia, Bell Shakespeare, and the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, along with a range of other musical, comedy and theatre events.

“After an incredibly challenging year, we are excited to be in a position to reopen our venues and present a range of wonderful performances for our community,” said Jacoba Kelly, Bendigo Venues and Events acting manager.

“The major touring companies are coming back to Bendigo with new work, but we also have some boutique and niche Australian works that will delight audiences, including Margaret Fulton: The Musical and the talented Damian Callinan in Newk: The John Newcombe Story.

“To be in a position, at this time, to announce our season program and theatres reopening is great news for our community, but equally positive for our local schools and community theatre groups who have performances and events booked in our spaces during 2021.

Local shows set for 2021 include Arena Theatre Company which will re-stage its award-winning original production of Robot Song, as well as deputing a new work titled Baai (Home) at the Ulumbarra Theatre in October.

Coming up in March are guitar virtuosos The Grigoryan Brothers, who also took part in Sunday’s launch, as well as legendary singer-songwriter Archie Roach with his show based on his life, Tell Me Why.

“We are excited to see our venues reopen and contribute to the recovery of our community from COVID-19 and also continue to add to the vibrancy and culture of our community,” Ms Kelly said.

For a full list of what’s on when, or to book, visit bendigovenuesandevents.com.au.