Today marks the beginning of one of coastal Queensland’s most anticipated arts and cultural festivals, NOOSA alive! Celebrating its 22nd anniversary, the festival runs from 19 to 28 July and promises a vibrant program filled with special events and premiere performances.
NOOSA alive! Festival President Andrew Stafford invites everyone to experience ten days in paradise, with a specially curated program designed to appeal to all tastes and budgets. “NOOSA alive! is part of Australia’s festival trail, and this year, Queensland’s cultural calendar is bursting with opportunity and choice,” said Mr Stafford. “We are delighted to present national acts and showcase our up-and-coming talent in our 22nd festival program, with a highlight featuring the finalists in our annual talent search, Noosa STARS alive!”
With a commitment to accessibility, the festival prides itself on keeping ticket prices affordable without compromising the quality of the program. This ensures that performances are appealing to all ages, alongside community masterclasses and workshops offered for free.
This year, Queensland Ballet returns to NOOSA alive! for its 11th consecutive year with two breathtaking works – the world premiere of Papillon choreographed by Jack Lister and Holberg Suite by Greg Horsman – at The J Noosa on 12 and 13 July.
Music lovers will enjoy Seaside Vibes, a two-day mini-music festival on Noosa’s iconic main beach. Former Noosa resident and Nashville country music star Wesley Dean headlines on 19 July, while synth artist and producer Luke Millions takes the stage on 20 July, supported by an impressive line-up of artists.
Comedy fans can look forward to Gold Logie winner Tom Gleeson’s brand-new live stand-up show, Gear, on 20 July at The J Noosa. Additionally, actor and author William McInnes will grace the stage for an intimate In Conversation event supporting his new book, Yeah, Nah! on 22 July.
The 7 Sopranos will take guests on a musical journey in an exclusive, one-night-only performance on 19 July. Meanwhile, Satu In The Beyond (ACO) presents an all-star line-up of Australian musicians from punk, indie, and classical worlds for an unforgettable afternoon on 20 July. This electro-acoustic collaboration features Satu Vänskä, the acclaimed Principal Violin with the ACO, and globally renowned ACO Artistic Director Richard Tognetti on electric violin, alongside other notable musicians.
Other musical highlights include the Taylor Swift tribute REPUTATION and Twilight Classics, an evening of gourmet food, fine wine, and exceptional music under the Bendigo Bank Marquee on Main Beach. Multi-award-winning international cabaret diva Meow Meow returns to Noosa for one night only on 26 July at The J Noosa, fresh from her sold-out Carnegie Hall debut.
The literary program continues to grow with a Crime Writing Panel bringing together Michael Robotham, Candice Fox, and JP Pomare on 23 July at The J Noosa. Additional literary events at Noosa Springs Golf & Spa Resort feature Jodi Rodgers on 24 July, Chris Masters on 26 July, and Chris Hammer on 27 July.
Australia’s master magician and World Record-holder Tim Ellis has created a mesmerising performance exclusively for NOOSA alive! on 22 July at The J Noosa. Harry Milas’ intimate Close Encounters will reveal the secrets of sleight-of-hand magic and illusions from 23 to 25 July in the Lorrikeet Room.
Theatre enthusiasts will enjoy Murder Village, an improvised ‘whodunit’ mystery theatre experience where the audience determines the outcome. This unique performance will be held on 27 July at The J Noosa.
Food lovers will not be disappointed, with a selection of premium food experiences throughout the festival. The Italian Long Lunch at Noosa Waterfront Restaurant on 28 July invites guests to enjoy warm conversation, good wine, and beautifully prepared food. Sensational Seafood offers a three-course lunch with live jazz at Noosa’s renowned Ricky’s River Bar & Restaurant on 25 July, where seafood is the star of the show.
The festival concludes with a free, community Festival Wrap Party on the picturesque Noosa River at Lions Park on 28 July. This event features talented local bands performing into the winter sunset and the Noosa STARS alive! Finals, hosted by Damien Anthony Avery-Rossi.