A one-stop shop for impressing anyone on your Chrissy gift list this year? We found it
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Even if you’re a huge fan of the festive season, there is one part that can be not so fun: finding the right presents for everyone.
If there’s anything we’ve learnt in the post-Marie Kondo era, it’s that people have enough physical things. A better option? Gift them an experience.
Now there are some experiences that money can’t necessarily buy (a sleep-in past 5 am or a leisurely shower where my toddler isn’t screaming at me through the glass door are at the top of my list, in case you were interested). But then there are great gifts that money can buy—like a trip to the theatre.
Canberra Theatre Centre has announced some highlights from their program for 2024 with some cracking shows coming up, and there’s something to suit literally everyone.
“If you’re looking to gift one of Canberra’s best experiences, Canberra Theatre Centre has some unforgettable productions lined up for 2024,” says Canberra Theatre Centre Director Alex Budd.
“From colourful children’s entertainment and vibrant music acts, to ground-breaking theatre like RBG from Sydney Theatre Company and hum-a-long classics like Rent, there’ll be plenty of smiles when the wrapping paper comes off.”
Keep reading to see some of the shows heading our way next year and match them to someone on your shopping list.
Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol (19-24 December 2023)
For the Christmas lover, give them their gift a little early and send them along to award-winning stage spectacle, Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. This tale of the power of kindness and love, plus a reminder of the true meaning of the season, is the ultimate family tradition. There will even be snow.
Kate Miller-Heidke – Catching Diamonds Tour (19 January)
Let’s start with a big one. After months locked away writing songs, the inimitable Kate Miller-Heidke is bringing her national tour to Canberra. Kate will be playing her greatest hits and most beloved pop songs, as well as performing tracks from her original musicals, some unexpected covers, taking requests, and telling stories from across her varied career. She’ll even be debuting new material from her forthcoming sixth studio album. This is a special opportunity to see Kate in intimate, stripped-back mode—and a very special present.
The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show (1-3 February)
If you know a tiny person, chances are they’re a fan of the beloved children’s book, The Very Hungry Caterpillar. So why not send them to see the theatre show? Suited to children 18 months and older (and their adults), this production features a menagerie of over 75 magical puppets. Plus the show features three other Eric Carle favourites: Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?, Ten Little Rubber Ducks, and The Very Busy Spider.
Akram Khan Company’s Jungle Book reimagined (2-3 February)
In an absolute coup for Canberra, The Jungle Book reimagined’s only east coast performances will take place at Canberra Theatre Centre this February. Akram Khan, one of the world’s leading choreographers has created this magical dance retelling of the classic tale, The Jungle Book by Rudyard Kipling. See the journey of Mowgli, reimagined through the eyes of a refugee caught in a world devastated by the impact of climate change. This landmark work features an original score by the legendary Jocelyn Pook, whose work includes the films Eyes Wide Shut and The Merchant of Venice. The show is brought to life by an incredible cast of international dancers and state-of-the-art animation and visuals. This one is a must-see event for any culture vultures or art lovers in your life.
Deborah Conway & Willy Zygier: Songs From the Book of Life (29 February)
Know someone who’s excited about Deborah Conway’s new book? Then they’ll be stoked when you buy them tickets to this show. Songs from the Book of Life is a unique theatrical experience by Deborah Conway and Willy Zygier, based on Deborah’s just released memoir. The show traverses their four-decade-long careers, exploring their story of youth, rebellion, love, ageing, and the world of music.
Stunt Double (14-16 March)
How about an option for someone who isn’t your typical theatre-goer? This show lets them step inside the filming of a 1970s Aussie action-flick and watch as extraordinary stunt doubles cycle through take-after-take of high-octane flips, fights and more. Want to give them a heart-stopping experience? The show is looking for volunteers to take part in the show.
Afrique en Cirque (1-2 March)
Another one to send someone who loves a bit of action. They can enjoy gravity-defying acrobats, frantic African rhythms, a kaleidoscope of colour and an explosion of energy at Afrique en Cirque. This upbeat show features scenery, costumes and staging that vibrate with energy.
Wilco (15 March)
It’s been more than a decade since Grammy Award-winning outfit Wilco returned to Australia. So if you’re buying a present for a big Wilco fan, you’re in luck. From their humble mid-‘90s alt-country origins, Wilco has manifestly become better with age.
RBG: Of Many, One (11-21 April)
Another one that’s bound to prove a winner as a present. After a wildly popular, sold-out premiere season in 2022, the Sydney Theatre Company smash-hit RBG: Of Many, One is coming to town, all about the woman who changed the face of the American legal system: the indomitable Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
Rent (7-13 June)
Know someone dreaming of a trip to Broadway? Multi-Tony Award-winning musical Rent is hitting Australian shores in 2024, and it’s coming to Canberra. Whether they’re newcomers to the classic, or have seen it countless times, this musical is a celebration of life, love, and the human spirit.
