The stage is set, and anticipation is building as NOOSA is alive! Festival unveils its much-anticipated 2025 program. Returning for its 23rd year, from 18 to 27July on Gubbi Gubbi Country, the festival will once again transform Noosa 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,” said Festival Director Ian Mackellar.
“Celebrating its 23rd year in 2025, 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 post prolific playwright David Williamson, directed by Ian Mackellar and starring Erik Thomson, Alison Venning, Jo Hendrie, Louisa Williamson, and Samantha Sherrin. Presented across three exclusive 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.
The program will also see Queensland Ballet present a special performance by its Jette Parker Young Artists, marking twelve 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.
Demonstrating the diversity of the program, award-winning country star Amber Lawrence brings her full band to 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, Amber delivers high-energy shows infused with humour, honesty and heart. This is a night of country music not to be missed.
Also amongst the program launch is stage and screen legend Caroline O’Connor, who will present an exclusive Queensland performance, sharing stories and songs from her illustrious international career. With musical direction by Michael Tyack, Caroline will revisit roles from her time on stage in Australia, London, Paris and Broadway. Honoured with an AM (Order of Australia) for her contribution to theatre, Caroline’s talent and charisma light up the stage.
Other 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 screening of Kitchen Brigade at the Majestic Theatre.
The program features three captivating literary events (luncheons or breakfast). (Including 2 exclusive Australian book launches) Adam Courtenay – ‘My Father Bryce’ (exclusive), reflects on his personal journey to better understand his legendary father, bestselling author Bryce Courtenay. At the renowned Lucio’s Restaurant, guests will share an ‘In Conversation’ with Bec Wilson (one of Australia’s leading voices on modern ageing and retirement) and her book ‘Prime Time’-. The third luncheon will showcase acclaimed author Kimberley Freeman, who will discuss The Secret Year of Zara Holt (exclusive) – a compelling novel inspired by the enigmatic life of Zara Holt, wife of former Prime Minister Harold Holt, who famously vanished while swimming off Cheviot Beach.
According to 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 in the program 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,” added Mackellar.
Festival-goers are encouraged to book early – NOOSA alive! events are known to sell out quickly. The full program will be released in the coming weeks.
