Saturday, 4 January 2025

The Hottest Tickets (and Free Events) in Western Sydney

Sydney Festival
Parramatta, Bankstown, Blacktown, and Casula are calling!

Sydney Festival
This summer, Western Sydney takes center stage with the Sydney Festival, offering a vibrant mix of world-class performances, art, music, and delicious food. From the outdoor charm of Parramatta Park to the cultural gems of Bankstown, Blacktown, and Casula, the Festival brings a diverse array of experiences that cater to every taste and budget. Here’s your guide to the must-see events lighting up the West in 2025.

Parramatta: From the Saloon to Under the Stars

Family-Friendly Fun

At Riverside Theatres, experience the wildly creative Animal by Cirque Alfonse, a family circus extravaganza featuring acrobatics, juggling, and live music. For younger audiences, the hilarious musical BullyBully dives into a comical quarrel between two world leaders that’s as entertaining for adults as it is for kids.

Captivating Dance and Music

Don’t miss The Bridal Lament 哭嫁歌 by Rainbow Chan 陳雋然, a moving fusion of projections, music, and movement inspired by Chinese traditions. For an immersive theatrical experience, saddle up for Cowboy, a contemporary performance blending railway robberies and saloon showdowns. Dance enthusiasts can also head to Parramatta Town Hall for All In, showcasing a mix of flamenco, hip-hop, Dharug dance, and Bharatanatyam.

Under the Stars

Sydney Festival
At Parramatta Park, bring your picnic blanket for Sydney Symphony Under the Stars. This free concert pairs the Sydney Symphony Orchestra with oud virtuoso Joseph Tawadros AM, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display.

Foodie Adventures

Pair your cultural experiences with a visit to LILYMU, a Festival Feast partner offering tantalizing dishes inspired by China and Southeast Asia.

Bankstown: Unique Perspectives on Display

Immersive Storytelling

Pop on some headphones for Stories From Here, an audio walking tour showcasing the personal perspectives of Bankstown’s youth. For something truly heartfelt, The Tamilization of Ahilan Ratnamohan at Utp delivers a deeply moving performance entirely in Tamil, with Ahilan performing alongside his mother.

Art After Hours

Explore Same Same/Different at Bankstown Arts Centre, an exhibition celebrating cultural connections. Stay late for Art Up Late, featuring poetic performances, experimental clay workshops, and Lunar New Year festivities that bring the community together in celebration.

Casula: A Visual and Culinary Delight

A Taste of Spain

At Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre, indulge in A Taste of Spain, an evening of vibrant Iberian culture. Sip on sangria, savor Spanish dishes, and enjoy an electrifying flamenco performance by Compañía Pepa Molina, accompanied by live music from the Western Sydney Youth Orchestra.

Immersive Art

For art lovers, Enigma, an installation of video and sound, offers a meditative experience, blending light and movement to create a captivating sensory journey.

Blacktown: A Hive of Family Fun

Hive Festival

The Hive Festival at The Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre is perfect for school holiday fun. Kids can dive into a world of art-making, storytelling, and playful performances, ensuring creativity thrives during the break.

Explore More in Western Sydney

With boundary-pushing theatre, awe-inspiring art, mouthwatering food, and community-focused celebrations, Western Sydney’s 2025 Sydney Festival program is a must-experience for locals and visitors alike. Dive into the full Festival lineup to plan your summer of discovery and delight.

For more information and tickets, visit the Sydney Festival website.
02 8248 6500
https://www.sydneyfestival.org.au/

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