Sydney Family Fun: What’s On for Kids at Darling Quarter Theatre

Mr Snotbottom’s Stinky Silly Show

Looking for things to do with kids in Sydney? Darling Quarter Theatre is putting family entertainment centre stage, with a program of comedy, music and live performances designed to delight young audiences and their parents.

Located in the heart of Darling Harbour, Darling Quarter Theatre is an ideal choice for families wanting to combine a live theatre experience with a day exploring one of Sydney’s most popular entertainment precincts.

Mr Snotbottom’s Stinky Silly Show

Families searching for fun Sydney school holiday activities can look forward to Mr Snotbottom’s Stinky Silly Show, running from Thursday 1 October to Saturday 3 October 2026.

The show is designed for children aged five and over, as well as adults who enjoy joining in the fun. Mr Snotbottom brings together silly songs, gross-out comedy, outrageous gags and plenty of laughs in a performance created especially for young audiences.

The show promises the kind of energetic and slightly disgusting humour that children love, making it an entertaining choice for a family afternoon during the October school holidays.

For parents searching online for kids entertainment in Sydney or family-friendly theatre during the school holidays, Mr Snotbottom offers an unusual alternative to the usual attractions.

Pevan and Sarah In Concert

Pevan and Sarah In Concert

Music and educational entertainment take the spotlight when Pevan and Sarah In Concert arrives at Darling Quarter Theatre on Friday 27 November 2026.

Pevan and Sarah are well known for combining children's entertainment with educational themes, creating performances that encourage young audiences to sing, participate and learn while having fun.

Their Darling Quarter appearance provides families with another opportunity to introduce children to the excitement of live performance and music in a professional theatre setting.

A Family Day at Darling Harbour

A visit to Darling Quarter Theatre can easily become a full family day out in Sydney.

The theatre is situated within Darling Quarter, close to Tumbalong Park and the attractions of Darling Harbour. Families can enjoy lunch or a snack at nearby cafes and restaurants before a performance, or continue exploring the precinct afterwards.

The central Sydney location also makes the theatre convenient for families travelling by public transport, with train, light rail, bus and ferry services providing access to the Darling Harbour area.

Plan Your Next Family Theatre Outing

Darling Quarter Theatre

Whether it is a hilarious school holiday comedy show or an energetic children's concert, Darling Quarter Theatre provides families with opportunities to experience live entertainment together.

With its central location and family-focused performances, the theatre is worth considering when planning things to do with kids in Sydney, Sydney school holiday activities or a family day out at Darling Harbour.

Families are encouraged to check the theatre website for current performance times, ticket availability and age recommendations before planning their visit.

Darling Quarter Theatre

Website: https://www.darlingquartertheatre.com.au/
Email: boxoffice@centuryvenues.com.au
Phone: 02 9550 3666
Address: Shop 3/1-25 Harbour Street, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

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PARTY ANIMALS! Sydney Fringe Festival Unleashes a Wild School Holiday Dance Party

Party Animals 

Sydney families can get ready to dance, laugh and let loose this spring when Party Animals makes its NSW premiere at Sydney Fringe Festival 2026. Created by Showmen Productions, the team behind acclaimed family productions including CIRCUS The Show, The Greatest Magic Show and KABOOM!, this brand-new interactive experience promises a colourful jungle adventure for children and their grown-ups.

Party Animals will be presented at The Bunker – Fool’s Paradise, Entertainment Quarter, Moore Park, during the September and October school holidays, with performances at 9:30am on scheduled show days from 30 September to 11 October 2026.

A Wild Jungle Adventure for Young Families

Created by Justin Williams and Nathan Green, Party Animals is designed especially for children aged 2 to 10, while giving parents plenty of opportunities to join the fun.

Rather than asking young audiences to sit quietly and watch, Party Animals encourages them to move, dance, play and participate throughout the one-hour performance. The adventure follows the search for the ultimate jungle dance party, hosted by the cheeky and charismatic Marty the Monkey.

The result is more like a spectacular family disco than traditional theatre, making it an appealing first live theatre experience for younger children.

Music, Puppets, Bubbles and Plenty of Mayhem

Party Animals 

The energetic production combines chart-topping songs and retro dance favourites with handmade interactive puppets, games, bubbles, streamers and balloons.

There are also plenty of unexpected surprises, including the show's popular air-blowers that send flying toilet paper across the dance floor.

Showmen Productions co-creator Justin Williams says the aim was to create an experience that feels like a party from beginning to end, filled with colour, energy and imagination.

Families are encouraged to embrace the jungle theme by dressing up as their favourite animals, adding to the festive atmosphere at Fool’s Paradise.

Award-Winning Family Entertainment

Showmen Productions has established a strong reputation for creating innovative family entertainment in Australia and internationally. Its productions have received major festival recognition, including Overall Best Children's Show and Weekly Best Children's Show awards at Fringe World, multiple Weekly Best Children's Show awards at Adelaide Fringe, Best Kid's Show at the Melbourne Magic Festival and Best Kid's Show at Sydney Fringe.

With Party Animals, the company continues its focus on creating shared experiences where children and adults can enjoy live entertainment together.

Plan a Sydney School Holiday Adventure

Party Animals 

Party Animals runs at The Bunker – Fool’s Paradise, Entertainment Quarter, Moore Park NSW, from 30 September to 11 October 2026, with no shows on Mondays. Performances are scheduled for 9:30am.

Tickets are on sale now, with full-price tickets $29, child 12+ and concession tickets $25, Deadly Tix $23 and group tickets for 10 or more $23.

For tickets and information visit: https://sydneyfringe.com/events/party-animals/

Showmen Productions

Website: https://www.showmenproductions.com.au/partyanimals
Address: Entertainment Quarter, Moore Park NSW, Australia
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/partyanimalsdisco/
Instagram: @PartyAnimalsDisco
Hashtag: #partyanimalsdisco

Sydney Fringe Festival

Website: https://sydneyfringe.com/
Event: Party Animals
Venue: The Bunker – Fool’s Paradise, Entertainment Quarter, Moore Park NSW
Dates: 30 September – 11 October 2026
Time: 9:30am daily on scheduled performance days
No shows: Mondays

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DIVA: Internationally Acclaimed Solo Play Makes Australian Premiere in Sydney

DIVA

Sydney theatre audiences will have the opportunity to experience an extraordinary story of music, memory, ambition and loss when Australian-born actress and singer Vivienne Powell brings her acclaimed solo play DIVA to the city in December 2026.

Following critically acclaimed seasons in Los Angeles and at the Edinburgh International Festival, DIVA will make its Australian premiere at Eternity Playhouse in Darlinghurst from 9 to 20 December 2026.

Directed by Peter Blackburn, this remarkable production combines theatre, music and a powerhouse solo performance to explore the life of a fictional Australian opera star whose extraordinary past refuses to remain forgotten.

A Powerful Story of Music and Memory

DIVA follows Louisa McCrae, a once-celebrated Australian opera star whose memories are unlocked by a suitcase filled with treasured mementos.

As Louisa moves between past and present, audiences are taken into the defining moments of her life, where performances, relationships, triumphs and heartbreak emerge with vivid emotional force.

Powell transforms into Louisa and the characters from her past, demonstrating her versatility as both an accomplished actor and singer.

At the heart of DIVA is the enduring relationship between music and memory. Familiar songs become gateways into Louisa's past, illustrating how music can preserve emotions, experiences and connections even when memories begin to disappear.

Acclaimed International Performances

DIVA

DIVA has already attracted strong reviews during its international seasons.

The Quintessential Review UK described it as "a magnificent piece of musical theatre", while Musical Theatre Review UK awarded the production five stars, praising Powell as a "Master Storyteller" and highlighting her breathtaking singing.

Culture Fix UK described Powell's performance as "vocally stunning" and emotionally resonant, while The Reviews Hub UK called DIVA "an exceptional show".

In Los Angeles, NoHo Arts District praised the production as "a dream of a solo play", describing Powell as a master at transporting audiences into the life of a fading icon.

Vivienne Powell Returns Home

Australian-born and Australian-trained, Vivienne Powell has developed an international career spanning opera, theatre, cabaret, musical theatre, film and television.

Her performance career includes work with Opera Australia and Pacific Opera, alongside extensive stage and screen appearances in Australia and overseas.

Powell received a Broadway World nomination for her performance in Ruben Guthrie with the Australian Theatre Company in Los Angeles. She also received a Best Supporting Actress nomination for Le Miroir at the New York/Long Island International Film Festival.

Her screen credits include Shameless and Judd Apatow's Love, as well as films presented at international festivals including Cannes.

DIVA at Eternity Playhouse Sydney

DIVA

For Sydney audiences, DIVA offers the chance to see a highly acclaimed international production in its Australian premiere season.

With its combination of powerful storytelling, live music and an exceptional solo performance, the production promises an intimate theatrical experience exploring universal themes of ageing, love, ambition, memory and loss.

Eternity Playhouse, 39 Burton Street, Darlinghurst, will host the season from 9 to 20 December 2026.

Showtimes are Tuesday to Friday at 7.30pm, Saturday at 2pm and 7.30pm, and Sunday at 6pm. Tickets are $50 for adults and $35 for concession, plus booking fees.

DIVA

Website: www.divatheplay.com
Instagram: diva.theplay
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/DIVA-the-play-61572494594454/
Bookings: https://events.humanitix.com/https-www-divatheplay-com
Venue: Eternity Playhouse, 39 Burton Street, Darlinghurst NSW
Season: 9–20 December 2026

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Ghost in The Rocks Returns: Sydney’s Biggest Halloween Street Festival in 2026

Ghost in The Rocks 

Sydney is set to become a giant Halloween playground when Ghost in The Rocks returns from 29 October to 1 November 2026, transforming the historic Rocks precinct into four nights of free entertainment, spectacular installations, live music and Halloween fun.

With more than 300,000 people expected to attend, and Halloween falling on Saturday 31 October, Ghost in The Rocks 2026 is shaping up to be one of Sydney’s biggest Halloween celebrations.

The Rocks Becomes a Free Halloween Playground

For four nights, the historic streets around Circular Quay and The Rocks will take on a completely different atmosphere.

Visitors can explore the precinct while enjoying live music, DJs, food and drink, roaming performers and enormous Halloween installations. Giant tentacles will appear to emerge from buildings, while six-metre spiders take over laneways and streets are filled with colour, lighting and Halloween theming.

The street festival and all live performances are completely free across all four nights, making Ghost in The Rocks an accessible Halloween event for visitors and locals alike.

George Street Closes for Halloween

Ghost in The Rocks 

The biggest transformation takes place on Friday 30 and Saturday 31 October when George Street and the Overseas Passenger Terminal close to traffic from 7pm until midnight.

The closure allows The Rocks to become fully pedestrian, giving visitors the opportunity to walk through the precinct from end to end without traffic. Live music and DJ performances will continue throughout the evening until the streets reopen at midnight.

Visitors can arrive by train, ferry or on foot and are encouraged to embrace the Halloween atmosphere by dressing in costume.

Seven Halloween Experiences Across Four Realms

Beyond the free street festival, Ghost in The Rocks 2026 will feature seven major experiences spread across four festival realms covering food and drink, horror, nightlife and classic Halloween favourites.

The full programme is being revealed throughout September, with ticketed experiences announced separately.

During the day, family-friendly programming provides a gentler introduction to the festival, while after dark the atmosphere changes as The Rocks becomes a spectacular Halloween destination for adults and night-time visitors.

The Ghost Stories of The Rocks

Ghost in The Rocks 

The festival draws inspiration from the history and ghost stories associated with one of Sydney's oldest precincts.

This year's story includes Anne Kirkman, associated with the Hero of Waterloo on Lower Fort Street. According to local tales, Anne kept rooms there from 1849 and a piano could supposedly be heard playing in the early hours before suddenly stopping when someone approached.

Her story follows that of Thomas Warne, who was murdered in The Rocks in November 1844 and is known to Ghost audiences as the Tormentor.

These historic stories form part of the atmosphere, connecting Sydney's fascinating past with its modern Halloween celebrations.

Plan Your Ghost in The Rocks Visit

Ghost in The Rocks runs from Thursday 29 October to Sunday 1 November 2026 at Circular Quay and The Rocks, Sydney.

Entry to the street festival and live street performances is free. George Street and the Overseas Passenger Terminal close from 7pm to midnight on Friday 30 and Saturday 31 October.

With spectacular installations, live entertainment, food, nightlife, history and plenty of Halloween surprises, Ghost in The Rocks offers visitors a unique way to experience Sydney after dark.

Ghost Festival

Website: https://ghostfestival.com.au/
Social media: @ghostfestivalsyd
Location: Circular Quay and The Rocks, Sydney NSW, Australia
Produced by: BBR Group

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

THE GREATEST MAGIC SHOW! Brings Big-Screen Magic to Sydney This Spring

The Greatest Magic Show!

Sydney families are in for a spectacular school holiday treat when The Greatest Magic Show! returns to the city as part of Sydney Fringe Festival 2026. Combining spectacular illusions, hilarious comedy, circus-style stunts and plenty of audience participation, this award-winning family production promises an hour of magical entertainment for children and grown-ups alike.

The show will take over The Virago – Fool’s Paradise at Entertainment Quarter, Moore Park, from 26 September to 11 October 2026, with performances daily at 12pm.

A Five-Star Family Magic Experience

Now celebrating its eighth year of touring, The Greatest Magic Show! has grown from a sold-out debut in 2018 into one of Australia’s most successful family magic productions. Created by Showmen Productions, the show has toured extensively throughout Australia and internationally, entertaining hundreds of thousands of people along the way.

Its impressive collection of festival honours includes Best Children’s Show at Fringe World in 2019, Best Kids Show at Sydney Fringe in 2019, Best Kids Show at the Melbourne Magic Festival in 2022, and Best Children’s Event at Adelaide Fringe in 2024 and 2026.

Audiences can expect the production's signature blend of vibrant staging, spectacular illusions, playful storytelling and energetic audience interaction.

Magic, Mayhem and Las Vegas-Level Illusions

The Greatest Magic Show!

But getting the magic on stage is only part of the fun. Sam and Justin must navigate plenty of magical mayhem, hilarious moments and unexpected surprises before delivering an unforgettable finale.

Designed especially for children aged 4 to 12, the production is equally entertaining for parents and grandparents. Crazy circus stunts, mind-bending magic and laugh-out-loud humour keep the action moving throughout the fast-paced one-hour performance.

A Magical Sydney School Holiday Adventure

Every child attending the show receives a free magic wand on entry, adding an extra touch of enchantment to the experience. Following the performance, young fans also have the opportunity to meet the stars and take a photo with them.

The show's feel-good finale delivers an inspirational message about believing in yourself and following your dreams. It is a fitting conclusion to a production that combines high-quality entertainment with positive life lessons.

With its Sydney Fringe Festival setting, convenient Moore Park location and daily midday performances, The Greatest Magic Show! is an ideal addition to a Sydney school holiday itinerary.

Book Your Tickets

The Greatest Magic Show!

The Greatest Magic Show! runs from 26 September to 11 October 2026, with performances at 12pm daily at The Virago – Fool’s Paradise, Entertainment Quarter, Moore Park, NSW.

Ticket prices include VIP $39, full price $33, Deadly Tix $26.40, child 12+ and concession $29, family of four $115 and groups of six or more $26.

Tickets are on sale now through Sydney Fringe Festival.

For more information and tickets visit: https://sydneyfringe.com/events/the-greatest-magic-show/

To see The Greatest Magic Show! in action visit: https://youtu.be/NdDw6J7ua6g

The Greatest Magic Show!

Website: https://www.thegreatestmagicshow.com.au/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheGreatestMagicShow/
Instagram: @TheGreatestMagicShow
Address: The Virago – Fool’s Paradise, Entertainment Quarter, Moore Park NSW

For more information about Sydney Fringe Festival and tickets visit: https://sydneyfringe.com/

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Luxperience 2026: Sydney Becomes the Meeting Place for Luxury Travel

Luxperience

From 17 to 20 November 2026, Sydney will become a global meeting point for luxury travel professionals when Luxperience returns for four days of curated connections, inspiring experiences and meaningful business opportunities.

Held in Sydney, Australia, Luxperience 2026 is designed for the high-end and experiential travel sector, bringing together luxury travel advisors, buyers, media and an international collection of specialist travel suppliers. The event is built around a simple idea: in luxury travel, meaningful relationships matter more than the number of people met.

A Global Showcase of Luxury Travel

Luxperience 2026 is set to feature more than 200 carefully selected partners, with the event's most diverse partner cohort to date representing destinations and luxury travel experiences across six continents. New participants include tourism organisations, luxury hotels, private villas, expedition operators, cultural experiences and specialist destination management companies.

The extensive partner line-up includes names such as Aman Resorts, Aqua Expeditions, Ananda in the Himalayas, Aurora Expeditions, Beachcomber Resorts and Hotels and Tourism-focused operators from destinations including Sri Lanka, Japan, New Zealand, Africa and South America.

Where Luxury Travel Connections Become Business

Luxperience

At the heart of Luxperience is its curated appointment program. Qualified buyers are matched with relevant suppliers, creating focused one-to-one meetings rather than relying on conventional trade-show foot traffic.

The 2026 program features pre-scheduled appointments across three exhibition days, supported by networking opportunities designed to encourage genuine relationships between luxury travel professionals. Hosted buyer participants can also access accommodation, event activities and opportunities for familiarisation experiences, subject to program conditions.

For travel advisors and luxury travel buyers, this creates an efficient way to discover new destinations, hotels, resorts, cruises, private touring experiences, wellness retreats and adventure products for discerning travellers.

Four Days of Inspiration in Sydney

The program begins on Tuesday 17 November with The Inner Circle and an opening cocktail event. The following three days combine business appointments, industry sessions and networking, concluding on Friday 20 November with a farewell soiree.

The new Inner Circle forum will explore major trends and forces shaping the future of luxury travel, while the Indulge and Inspire sessions will provide additional opportunities for education, discussion and creative thinking.

Luxury Travel with a More Personal Touch

Luxperience

Luxperience reflects an important evolution in luxury tourism. Today's premium traveller increasingly seeks authentic experiences, personal connections, wellness, cultural discovery and memorable journeys rather than simply traditional luxury.

The event's focus on curated introductions allows suppliers and travel professionals to explore these changing expectations together, helping shape the next generation of high-end travel experiences.

For anyone involved in luxury tourism, experiential travel, premium hospitality or MICE, Luxperience 2026 offers an important opportunity to discover what is next for the industry while building valuable relationships in one of Australia's most dynamic international cities.

Luxperience 

Website: www.luxperience.com.au
Email: info@luxperience.com.au
Phone: +61 403 844 543
Address: Sydney, Australia
Event dates: 17–20 November 2026.

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

A Stone Road Marker Tells the Story of Sydney’s Colonial Past

The historic Croydon milestone

Along Liverpool Road near Badminton Road in Croydon, Sydney, stands a remarkably modest piece of history: a sandstone milestone that once helped travellers find their way long before street directories, GPS navigation and modern road signs.

The historic Croydon milestone is officially listed as a local heritage item by Inner West Council. Its position is recorded as Liverpool Road, near the corner of Badminton Road, in the road reserve.

For today's motorists it may appear to be little more than an old stone beside a busy suburban road. Look closer, however, and its inscriptions reveal a fascinating story about early roads, transportation and life in colonial New South Wales.

A Road Guide from Another Era

The sandstone marker is a single block with a square plan, tapered sides and a chamfered top. It stands approximately 750 millimetres high, tapering from about 420 millimetres at its base to 370 millimetres at the top.

Carved into its faces are the Roman numerals that provided essential information to travellers. One side reads “SYDNEY VII”, indicating seven miles to Sydney, while the opposite face reads “LIVERPOOL XIV”, indicating fourteen miles to Liverpool.

The marker is a surviving reminder of a time when distances were measured in miles and travellers depended on physical landmarks rather than digital navigation.

Milestones and Convict-Built Roads

The milestone belongs to the history of the Great South Road, today's Liverpool Road, which was commissioned during the governorship of Lachlan Macquarie in the early nineteenth century.

Sandstone milestones were installed along important roads to identify distances between settlements. Historical research records that milestones were placed along the Parramatta, Liverpool and South Head roads during the early 1800s.

Edward Cureton is credited with producing an early group of milestones in the colony in 1814. According to historical accounts, he was paid £40 and 10 shillings for 54 milestones.

These simple stone markers formed part of an emerging road system that was transforming travel around the colony.

Even Milestones Suffered Vandalism

Interestingly, vandalism is hardly a modern problem.

Historical records indicate that milestones along the new roads were regularly defaced. A notice published in the Sydney Gazette in October 1816 warned that people damaging or defacing milestones could be prosecuted.

By 1846, some milestones along the Parramatta and Liverpool roads had deteriorated or disappeared. Tenders were subsequently called for replacement milestones, including their lettering and installation at positions selected by the road surveyor.

The story demonstrates just how important these apparently humble stones were to the road network.

A Heritage Landmark in Modern Sydney

Today, the Croydon milestone survives among the traffic and development of modern Sydney. It is easy to pass without noticing, yet its carved Roman numerals connect the present-day suburb with a period when journeys were measured in miles and roads were still being established across the colony.

The milestone is one of several historic markers associated with the old road system. Another surviving milestone is listed on Parramatta Road near Cheltenham Road in Croydon.

For visitors interested in Sydney history, the Croydon milestone provides a fascinating example of how small heritage objects can reveal stories about transportation, engineering and everyday life in nineteenth-century New South Wales.

Inner West Council

Website: www.innerwest.nsw.gov.au
Email: council@innerwest.nsw.gov.au
Phone: 02 9392 5000
Address: 2–14 Fisher Street, Petersham NSW 2049, Australia

For community history and heritage enquiries, Inner West Council also provides a dedicated history service at history@innerwest.nsw.gov.au.

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

NoVacancy 2026: Sydney Set to Welcome the Future of Hospitality

NoVacancy 2026 

Two Days of Hospitality Innovation in Sydney

Australia’s accommodation and hospitality industry will converge at ICC Sydney on September 23 and 24, 2026, for NoVacancy 2026, a major industry event bringing together hotel leaders, accommodation professionals, technology providers, designers and hospitality innovators.

The event will feature more than 200 exhibitors, 190 speakers, 500 brands and an expected 6,000-plus attendees across two days. For professionals looking to discover new hotel technology, improve operations and explore the future of hospitality, NoVacancy provides an opportunity to connect with the people and ideas shaping the industry.

Discover the Latest Hospitality Ideas

NoVacancy 2026 is built around four key themes: technology, commerce, design and experience.

More than 200 exhibitors will showcase products, services and innovations designed to help accommodation businesses improve efficiency, maximise revenue and enhance guest experiences. Visitors can meet suppliers, explore new technologies and discover practical solutions for their properties.

The exhibition also includes a dedicated Design Hub, highlighting hotel design, furniture, fixtures, equipment and materials. With more than AU$1.1 billion in hotel FF&E spending estimated to be in the pipeline through 2028, design is becoming an increasingly important part of the accommodation sector.

Nine Summits Cover the Big Issues

Education is another major attraction, with nine specialist summits and more than 80 free sessions across the two days.

Topics include hotel technology, marketing, revenue and distribution, sustainability, design, leadership, people and culture, future leadership and small hotel operations. Discussions will explore subjects including artificial intelligence, connected hotels, revenue management, sustainability, direct bookings and the changing guest experience.

The 2026 speaker program features senior hospitality and tourism figures from organisations including Accor, IHG Hotels & Resorts, Tourism Australia, Destination NSW and The Star Entertainment Group.

A $500 Gift Card Opportunity

There is an additional incentive for eligible visitors to register and attend NoVacancy 2026.

Visitors who register between August 26 and September 11, 2026, and attend the event at ICC Sydney on September 23 or 24 will be entered into a draw to win a $500 prepaid gift card. The competition closes at 11:59pm AEST on September 11.

Plan Your NoVacancy 2026 Visit

NoVacancy 2026 takes place at ICC Sydney in Darling Harbour on Wednesday, September 23, and Thursday, September 24, from 9:00am to 5:00pm each day. Registration is free for eligible accommodation executives, owners and developers.

For Australia's hotel and accommodation industry, NoVacancy 2026 promises two valuable days of networking, education, innovation and business opportunities, making it an important date on the Australian hospitality events calendar.

NoVacancy 2026

Website: www.terrapinn.com/exhibition/novacancy/
Email: Matthew.Gatfield@terrapinn.com
Address: ICC Sydney Exhibition Centre, Darling Harbour, Sydney NSW, Australia.

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Opening Night Success: How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying Delighted Sydney Audiences

How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying

The lights came up, the curtain rose and the corporate ladder became a playground of ambition, romance and comic chaos when How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying officially opened at Hayes Theatre Co in Sydney on 2 September 2026.

This lively new production gave audiences a chance to rediscover one of musical theatre's most celebrated comedies, combining sharp workplace satire, memorable music and an impressive Australian cast.

A Broadway Classic Came Back to Sydney

First staged on Broadway in 1961, How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying followed J. Pierrepont Finch, an ambitious window washer determined to make his way to the top of the corporate world.

Armed with a questionable guidebook to career advancement, Finch manipulated the rules of office life as he climbed from window washer to high-powered executive. Along the way, he encountered ambitious colleagues, office politics, romance, corporate scheming and plenty of comic complications.

The musical, with music and lyrics by Frank Loesser and a book by Abe Burrows, Jack Weinstock and Willie Gilbert, went on to win seven Tony Awards and the Pulitzer Prize.

A Strong Cast Led the Opening Night

Award-winning director Cameron Mitchell brought together a talented company for the Hayes Theatre production.

Jake Speer took centre stage as J. Pierrepont Finch, portraying the determined young career climber with energy and comic flair. Simon Burke played the formidable company president J. B. Biggley, while Georgia Laga'aia brought warmth to the role of Rosemary Pilkington.

Lucy Lalor appeared as the glamorous Hedy LaRue, with Wayne Scott Kermond, Max Macdonald, Stacey Thomsett, Noni McCallum, Kaeng Chan, Madeline Pratt, Taye Grant and Zachary Webster adding to the strong ensemble.

Katie Green, Kye Hall and Kristina McNamara completed the company.

Songs and Satire Kept the Pace Moving

The production's opening night appeal came from its combination of energetic performances, witty situations and Frank Loesser's memorable score.

Familiar numbers including I Believe in You, Brotherhood of Man and The Company Way helped drive the story while reinforcing the musical's playful examination of corporate ambition.

Office parties, workplace rivalries, career manoeuvring and romantic entanglements became the ingredients for a fast-moving theatrical comedy that poked fun at the corporate world while celebrating the timeless appeal of musical theatre.

A Welcome Australian Revival

The Hayes Theatre production represented a significant return for the musical, which had last been seen on Australian stages in 1963.

Its long absence made the revival particularly appealing for Australian theatre audiences, while its themes remained surprisingly familiar. Workplace competition, career ambition, office politics and the desire to get ahead continue to provide plenty of material for comedy.

The musical had also enjoyed notable Broadway revivals, including the production featuring Daniel Radcliffe and Tony Award winner John Larroquette.

A Night of Classic Musical Theatre in Sydney

Opening night at Hayes Theatre Co demonstrated why this musical has remained part of the international theatre repertoire for generations.

How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying offered Sydney audiences an entertaining mixture of comedy, music, romance and satire, wrapped around a story about one man's determination to reach the top.

For visitors to Sydney, the production also provided an opportunity to experience the city's intimate theatre

Hayes Theatre Co

Website: www.hayestheatre.com.au
Email: info@hayestheatre.com.au
Phone: +61 2 8068 7000
Address: 19 Greenknowe Avenue, Potts Point, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Instagram: @lpdproductions

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Club Flamingo Takes Flight at The Grand Electric This Saturday

A New Family Adventure Hits the Dance Floor

A colourful new experience is arriving at The Grand Electric this Saturday as Club Flamingo opens its doors for an energetic afternoon of circus, music, dancing and spectacular entertainment.

Created especially for children aged five to twelve and their grown-ups, Club Flamingo combines the excitement of a live show with the freedom of a dance party. It is designed to give children centre stage while encouraging adults to join the fun.

Families can expect incredible circus performances, giant dance-offs, outrageous party challenges, bubbles, confetti and plenty of opportunities for children and adults to unleash their inner performer.

Circus Stars Bring the Party to Life

Club Flamingo features an impressive line-up of professional performers from the Australian circus and entertainment scene.

Adam Malone, known to audiences from La Ronde at The Grand Electric, brings his remarkable circus skills and charismatic personality to the festival-style experience. A graduate of Melbourne's National Institute of Circus Arts, he has performed with major productions including Circus Oz and Pippin the Musical.

Ukrainian-born circus artist Mariia Borysiak adds aerial arts, musical theatre and dance to the program. A graduate of Lee Academy Fulltime, her Australian performance credits include Australia's Got Talent, L'Hotel and Gatsby – The Green Light.

Award-winning performer Lou P Scarlett takes on the role of resident DJ. An internationally acclaimed showgirl, singer, dancer, actor, DJ and choreographer, Lou P Scarlett brings music, glamour and high-energy entertainment to the Club Flamingo dance floor.

Daniel Gorski completes the stellar line-up with fast-paced comedy, juggling and circus skills. A graduate of the National Institute of Circus Arts, he has toured Australia and internationally and performed with acclaimed companies including La Soirée and Circa.

A Saturday Out for the Whole Family

Club Flamingo is more than a traditional children's show. Its combination of live circus, music, audience participation and dancing creates an interactive family entertainment experience where grown-ups are encouraged to get involved.

The concept makes it an appealing choice for families looking for things to do this weekend, particularly those searching for children's entertainment, family activities and unique experiences.

Launch Sale Offers 20 Percent Off

Families planning to attend can take advantage of a launch offer, with 20 percent off selected tickets when booked before midnight on Friday. The offer provides an opportunity to experience the inaugural Club Flamingo dance floor at a reduced price.

With its mix of circus performers, music, dancing, games and spectacular party atmosphere, Club Flamingo promises a memorable afternoon for children and their grown-ups.
Club Flamingo and The Grand Electric Contact Details

The Grand Electric

Website: https://www.thegrandelectric.com.au/
Address: Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

For tickets, session information and the latest Club Flamingo announcements, visit the official The Grand Electric website.

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

The Shawshank Redemption Comes to Sydney: Star-Studded Cast Announced

Shawshank Redemption

Sydney theatre audiences are set for an unforgettable experience when the stage production of The Shawshank Redemption makes its Australian premiere at Theatre Royal Sydney, bringing one of the world’s most beloved stories of friendship, hope and resilience to the live stage.

The highly anticipated production has revealed an impressive Australian cast, led by acclaimed actor David Berry as Andy Dufresne, Bert LaBonté as Red and Rodger Corser as The Warden.

David Berry Takes the Role of Andy Dufresne

Best known internationally for his performances in Outlander and the Australian drama A Place To Call Home, David Berry will portray Andy Dufresne, the intelligent and determined banker whose extraordinary journey through prison forms the heart of The Shawshank Redemption.

Berry brings extensive television, film and theatre experience to the role, promising a compelling interpretation of one of modern storytelling’s most recognisable characters.

Andy’s story is one of endurance, friendship and hope in the face of seemingly impossible circumstances, making the role a powerful challenge for any actor.

Bert LaBonté Plays Red

Shawshank Redemption

Joining Berry is prolific Australian stage and television actor Bert LaBonté as Ellis Boyd “Red” Redding.

LaBonté has built an impressive career across theatre and screen, with credits including The Book of Mormon and Colin From Accounts. As Red, he takes on the character who becomes Andy’s closest friend and the storyteller through whose eyes much of the prison experience unfolds.

The relationship between Andy and Red is central to the emotional power of The Shawshank Redemption, with their friendship becoming a symbol of loyalty, dignity and hope.

Rodger Corser Steps Into The Warden’s Role

One of Australia’s most recognisable screen actors, Rodger Corser, will play The Warden.

Corser is widely known for television roles including Doctor Doctor and Rush and now brings his considerable acting experience to the stage production.

The Warden represents the harsh institutional authority Andy must confront, creating a powerful dramatic counterpoint to the story’s themes of freedom and perseverance.

A New Chapter for a Beloved Story

Shawshank Redemption

The Shawshank Redemption is based on Stephen King’s novella Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption and became a much-loved film following its release in 1994.

The stage production offers audiences the opportunity to experience this enduring story in an entirely different way, with live performances creating an immediate connection between actors and audience.

For visitors to Sydney, the production also provides an ideal addition to a city getaway, combining world-class theatre with Sydney’s restaurants, hotels, harbour attractions and cultural experiences.

Further casting is still to be announced for the Australian premiere season at Theatre Royal Sydney, adding further anticipation for theatre lovers.

With David Berry, Bert LaBonté and Rodger Corser leading the cast, The Shawshank Redemption is shaping up as one of the notable theatre events on Sydney’s cultural calendar.

The Shawshank Redemption

Theatre Royal Sydney Website: https://theatreroyalsydney.com/
Address: 108 King Street, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

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Sydney Thunder Set to Light Up ENGIE Stadium with Big Bash Cricket Action

Sydney Thunder Returns to ENGIE Stadium

Cricket fans are set for an exciting summer of Big Bash League action when Sydney Thunder hosts three major KFC BBL|16 matches at ENGIE Stadium in Sydney.

With tickets now on sale, supporters have the chance to experience the atmosphere of live Big Bash cricket as Sydney Thunder brings some of Australia’s most exciting players to the stadium. The home fixtures will provide an ideal summer outing for cricket lovers, families and visitors looking for sporting entertainment in Sydney.

The Sydney Smash Arrives on 19 December

The action begins with the highly anticipated Sydney Smash on 19 December, promising another thrilling chapter in the cross-city rivalry.

The Sydney Smash is one of the standout events on the Big Bash calendar, bringing together passionate supporters and creating an electric atmosphere inside the stadium. For visitors to Sydney, it also offers an opportunity to combine world-class cricket with a summer city break.

The Wrap Party on 27 December

Sydney Thunder will then host The Wrap Party on 27 December, providing the perfect sporting celebration between Christmas and New Year.

With the festive season in full swing, the match offers visitors and locals an exciting way to continue the holiday celebrations while enjoying live T20 cricket, entertainment and the energetic atmosphere of ENGIE Stadium.

Big Names Ready to Bring the Thunder

Sydney Thunder supporters will have plenty to look forward to, with David Warner, Sam Konstas and Tanveer Sangha among the headline names associated with the team.

The fast-paced nature of Big Bash cricket means every over can change the game. Powerful batting, attacking bowling, spectacular catches and big sixes combine to make a Sydney Thunder match an entertaining experience for both dedicated cricket supporters and visitors discovering Australian cricket for the first time.

Early Bird Ticket Savings

Tickets for Sydney Thunder’s ENGIE Stadium fixtures are officially on sale. For a limited time, cricket fans can save 20 percent on selected fixtures during the early bird promotional period.

With popular matches expected to attract strong interest, supporters planning to attend are encouraged to secure tickets early.

A Summer Sporting Experience in Sydney

ENGIE Stadium provides a spectacular setting for major sporting events and is conveniently located within Sydney Olympic Park. Attending a Sydney Thunder match can easily be combined with a broader Sydney itinerary, including attractions, restaurants, entertainment and accommodation across the city.

For interstate and international visitors, Big Bash cricket provides a distinctly Australian sporting experience and a memorable addition to a summer holiday.

Book Sydney Thunder Tickets

Tickets and current match information are available through the official ticketing link:
Website: https://www.sydneythunder.com.au/

Sydney Thunder

Venue: ENGIE Stadium, Sydney Olympic Park, NSW, Australia
Website: https://www.sydneythunder.com.au/
Phone: Contact details available through the official Sydney Thunder website.

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Sydney Writers’ Festival Launches Homegrown: Celebrate Australian Writing with 25+ Free Events

Sydney Writers’ Festival

Homegrown Brings Australian Writers to Sydney

Book lovers, aspiring writers and curious minds have a new reason to visit Sydney this spring, with Sydney Writers’ Festival launching Homegrown, a two-weekend celebration of Australian writing, ideas and creativity.

Presented in partnership with the State Library of NSW and supported by the NSW Government, Homegrown will feature more than 25 free literary events across Friday 18 and Saturday 19 September and Friday 9 to Sunday 11 October 2026.

The program extends Sydney Writers’ Festival beyond its traditional May festival, creating more opportunities throughout the year for audiences to meet celebrated Australian authors and engage with important contemporary ideas.

Free Literary Events at the State Library of NSW

Homegrown will bring novelists, poets, playwrights, journalists and thinkers together for free talks, panel discussions, live podcast recordings and creative workshops.

Sydney Writers’ Festival CEO Brooke Webb said the program is designed to make literary conversations freely accessible while providing opportunities for audiences to discover writers, develop creative skills and connect through stories and ideas.

For visitors exploring Sydney, the State Library of NSW provides an impressive cultural setting close to the Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney Opera House and the city centre, making Homegrown an appealing addition to a Sydney cultural itinerary.

Celebrating Australian Fiction and Poetry

Sydney Writers’ Festival

 The fiction program features an impressive collection of Australian literary voices.

Gail Jones, Christos Tsiolkas and Sarah Holland-Batt will explore the life and legacy of Miles Franklin in Reading David Malouf. International bestselling author Garth Nix will introduce his new adult space opera Massif.

The program also brings together Suzie Miller and David Williamson to discuss the evolution of Australian theatre, while Charlotte Wood, Tony Birch and Emily Perkins explore the books that have shaped their writing lives in The Novelists’ Book Club.

Crime writer Michael Robotham will discuss his first Australia-set thriller, Tell Me Something True, while Holly Ringland explores memory and belonging in The World Beneath Her Feet.

First Nations and Queer Stories

Homegrown also provides an important platform for diverse Australian voices.

First Nations poets Jazz Money, Dakota Feirer and Luke Patterson will explore Aboriginal resistance and resilience in Sword and Shield.

Meet Cute and Queer celebrates contemporary Australian LGBTQIA+ romance, while Writing Queer Sydney explores the city’s LGBTQIA+ history and present-day culture.

These sessions demonstrate the breadth of Australian storytelling and the many perspectives that contribute to the nation’s literary identity.

Ideas, Politics and Contemporary Australia

Sydney Writers’ Festival

Homegrown’s non-fiction program tackles major issues facing Australia.

Susan Orlean and Pip Williams will celebrate libraries in Library Books, while Bruce Pascoe discusses the continuing cultural impact of Dark Emu.

Fran Kelly, Kerry O’Brien and Laura Tingle will examine Australian political writing and biography in ABC Radio National’s Top 100 Australian Books: Power & Politics.

Other sessions explore Australian democracy, the housing crisis, memoir, family, cultural inheritance and the experiences of younger generations.

Plan Your Sydney Literary Escape

With all Homegrown events free, the program offers an accessible way to experience Sydney’s vibrant literary and cultural scene. Bookings are recommended, making it worthwhile for visitors and locals to plan ahead.

The full program and booking information are available through the official Sydney Writers’ Festival website.

Sydney Writers’ Festival Contact Details

Sydney Writers’ Festival
Website: https://www.swf.org.au/
Email: info@swf.org.au
Phone: +61 2 9256 1311
Address: Sydney Writers’ Festival, Sydney, NSW, Australia

State Library of NSW Contact Details

State Library of New South Wales
Website: https://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/
Phone: +61 2 9273 1414
Address: Macquarie Street, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

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