From iconic classics to cutting-edge new productions and fun family shows, the Centre’s four 2025 curated programs set the stage for Geelong, one of Australia’s fastest-growing regional cities and only designated UNESCO city of Design in Australia, to shine brighter than ever, as the region’s hub of creativity, community, and world-class entertainment in 2025.
Since its $180million Victorian Government transformation into Australia’s largest dedicated regional arts venue, Geelong Arts Centre has welcomed over 256,000 visitors this year, cementing its place as a leading cultural institution. The redevelopment has been recognised as a triumph of cultural investment, seeing them crowned as Performing Arts Centre of the Year by APAX, winning the Silver Cultural Victorian Tourism Award and multiple national architectural accolades.
“Geelong isn’t just growing—it’s thriving,” said CEO Rhys Holden. “Geelong Arts Centre has become a place where creativity and community collide unlike anywhere in Australia. This season brings powerful stories, made by Australia’s best artists and arts companies, right here to Geelong. Whether you’re a local, a Melburnian, or coming from further afield, there’s never been a better time to visit Geelong Arts Centre.”
SEASON 2025
Geelong Arts Centre is presenting some of the greatest stories ever told with: Romeo & Juliet, La Bohème, The Dictionary of Lost Words and the Australian classic Looking for Alibrandi. All stories we need right now, of love, resilience and hope.
The program also sees some of our oldest cultural stories through Bangarra’s The Light Inside; as well as stories reimagined in Circa’s Duck Pond (a circus take on Swan Lake); and in Malthouse Theatre’s The Birds (the most frightening night in the theatre you’re likely to have in your life!).
“At Geelong Arts Centre, our mission is to bring the finest national and international companies to Geelong, and Season 2025 marks our most exciting and ambitious curated season to date.” said Geelong Arts Centre Head of Programming, Penny McCabe.
For more information on Season 2025 and to book tickets, visit geelongartscentre.or.au/whats-on/season-2025.
THERE’S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE
Geelong Arts Centre is also launching today its three other curated seasons featuring Family Magic 2025, sparking a lifelong love of the arts for children and families with seven heartfelt performances – there’s something for all ages. Delightful Days and Matinees 2025, some of Australia’s best loved performers right here in Geelong to create delightful daytime experiences. Enjoy complimentary tea, coffee and morning tea before the show – the perfect prelude to a morning of socialising and entertainment. Then step into the heart of innovation and creative curiosity with REWIRE 2025, where five vibrant voices thrill, inspire and push the limits of imagination. REWIRE invites you to explore the bold, the daring, and the unconventional.
A PLACE TO MAKE, CREATE AND INSPIRE
Geelong Arts Centre is committed to taking a leading role in shaping the region’s creative landscape. Since 2019, Geelong Arts Centre has directly invested into the cultural industry of the region through its Creative Engine initiatives, supporting 848 artists, 130 projects, delivering 82 grant, 34 professional development initiatives and 6 co-commissions. The support covers funding, development, commissions as well as venue hire, staff and equipment costs to the value of $1.2 million, a significant contribution to Australia’s cultural economy.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Geelong Arts Centre’s SEASON 2025 is proudly supported by the Victorian Government through Creative Victoria, Major Artistic Partner, Deakin University, and Innovation Partner, Costa Asset Management.
SIGN UP
To learn more about Geelong Arts Centre’s 2025 season and to keep up to date with What’s On, sign up to geelongartscentre.org.au/whats-on/season-2025.
Image: Darcie Richards
