Sleeping Dogs and other seductions at NOOSA alive!
A world-premiere play, two book launches, two ballets and a much-loved Aussie country music star – this year’s NOOSA alive! is already a cracker – and there’s more to come.
The world premiere of David Williamson play Sleeping Dogs takes top billing at this year’s NOOSA alive!, set to return for its 23rd outing, July 18 to 27, when Noosa will once again transform into a cultural playground of theatre, music, ballet and world-class performance.
“We will ignite your senses with live shows, literary events, thought-provoking, mind-tingling, sensory overload performances accompanying food and wine with Noosa as our backdrop,” pronounces festival director Ian Mackellar.
“Celebrating its 23rd year, NOOSA alive! (formerly Noosa Long Weekend) presents a diverse program of events attracting the very best of Australian and international performers, writers, film-makers, musicians, artists, chefs, environmentalists and commentators.”
Headlining the program is the world premiere of Sleeping Dogs by Australia’s most prolific and acclaimed playwright, David Williamson, directed by Mackellar and starring Erik Thomson, Alison Venning, Jo Hendrie, Louisa Williamson and Samantha Sherrin.
Presented across performances, the play follows Max Griffith, a Hollywood director whose return to Australia dredges up long-buried secrets. Darkly funny and emotionally resonant, Sleeping Dogs is a piercing look at memory, regret and the lingering impact of the past.
You might like
NOOSA alive! will also see Queensland Ballet present a special performance by its Jette Parker Young Artists, marking 12 years of creative collaboration. Audiences will be treated to two stunning works – Back to Bach by Greg Horsman – an elegant return of the 2016 world premiere; and Curious Beings – a world premiere by Amelia Waller in collaboration with Dead Puppet Society. This double bill blends the beauty of classical ballet with bold contemporary storytelling, puppetry and imagination.
Award-winning country music star Amber Lawrence will be accompanied by her full band at NOOSA alive! for a powerhouse night of music. Named 2023 Female Artist of the Year, with seven studio albums, three children’s albums and an ARIA-topping career spanning two decades, Lawrence delivers high-energy shows infused with humour, honesty and heart. This is a night of country music not to be missed.
Stage and screen legend Caroline O’Connor will present an exclusive Queensland performance, sharing stories and songs from her illustrious international career. With musical direction by Michael Tyack, O’Connor will revisit roles from her time on stage in Australia, London, Paris and Broadway. Honoured with an Order of Australia for her contribution to theatre, O’Connor’s talent and charisma light up the stage.
Subscribe for updates
Other festival events include: A Night at the Opera with trio Divina combining the greatest moments from famous operas, including Carmen and The Magic Flute; Sharon and Slava Grigoryan – two of Australia’s finest classical musicians performing works for cello and guitar; and a Film with Food screening of Kitchen Brigade at the Majestic Theatre.
The festival program features three captivating literary events (luncheons or breakfast) and two Australian book launches, including Adam Courtenay’s My Father Bryce, reflecting on his personal journey to better understand his legendary father, bestselling author Bryce Courtenay (The Power of One).
At Lucio’s Restaurant, guests will share an In Conversation with ageing and retirement champion Bec Wilson, about her book, Prime Time.
The third literary luncheon will showcase author Kimberley Freeman, who will discuss The Secret Year of Zara Holt – a novel inspired by the enigmatic life of Zara Holt, wife of former Prime Minister Harold Holt, who vanished while swimming off Cheviot Beach in 1967.
According to Ian Mackellar, the festival will close with a yet-to-be-announced spectacular family-friendly event as the program evolves to encourage younger generations to immerse themselves in art and culture.
“We invite everyone to book tickets and be part of this year’s program. We look forward to announcing our final event, which is focused on being inclusive for culture lovers of all ages and allow parents and grandparents to pass on their love of the festival to younger generations,” he adds.