Five Must-See Shows: Dance, Theatre & Song Light Up Illawarra This Weekend
The Illawarra region is set to come alive with a vibrant array of cultural events, offering something for every arts enthusiast. From powerful Indigenous dance to open-air Shakespeare and captivating film screenings, this weekend promises an exciting lineup of performances across Wollongong and Dapto.
Garabari: A Thrilling Indigenous Dance Gathering
Garabari, an acclaimed production by Wiradjuri artist Joel Bray, arrives in the Illawarra following a successful Sydney Festival season. This unique event transforms audiences into participants, creating a dynamic dance party that bridges Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.
Developed on Wiradjuri Country with Elders and artists, the performance shares the Giilang (story and song) of Marramalngidyal Marrambidyagu, which recounts the creation of the Murrumbidgee River. This narrative was gifted by the late Uncle James Ingram, adding profound cultural significance to the experience.
The show will be presented at the Wollongong Town Hall, where tickets are already sold out, and at the Dapto Ribbonwood Centre on Saturday, February 14. This powerful gathering on Dharawal Country is not to be missed.
Theatre Under the Stars: Shakespeare Reimagined
Merrigong Theatre Company brings a spectacular open-air production to The University of Wollongong's Kooloobong Oval from February 11 to 22. The Comedy of Errors, presented by Sport for Jove, offers a modern and razor-sharp interpretation of Shakespeare's classic comedy.
Held at sunset, this magical outdoor setting provides the perfect backdrop for family and friends to enjoy theatre under the stars. This unmissable new event promises to transform the oval into a breathtaking theatrical venue.
Illawarra Film Society Season Launch
The Illawarra Film Society kicks off its 2026 season at the Gala Cinema in Warrawong on February 8 with the French comedy-drama Holy Cow. The season features an eclectic mix of international cinema, including the Iraqi Camera d'Or winner The President's Cake and the absurdist Canadian comedy-drama Universal Language.
Other highlights include the moving Thai film How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies and a thrilling documentary about Australian adventurer Lisa Blair, who attempted to become the first woman to sail solo and non-stop around Antarctica.
Classic film enthusiasts will appreciate screenings of Steven Spielberg's original summer blockbuster Jaws and a special tribute to Robert Redford with Alan J. Pakula's acclaimed All the President's Men. An annual IFS membership, priced at $99, offers access to 32 exclusive Sunday night screenings from February to November, representing exceptional value at approximately $3 per film.
Bach Motets: A Stellar Classical Opening
Bach Akademie Australia launches its 2026 program with J.S. Bach's Complete Vocal Motets at the Wollongong Art Gallery on Friday, February 6, at 7:30pm. This performance features Australia's premier vocal ensemble, The Song Company, alongside guest artist, renowned Dutch singer Iris Korfker.
Following the runaway success of their 2025 national tour The Countertenor, Australia's leading Baroque ensemble presents seven of Bach's divinely beautiful vocal motets. The program also includes contemporary works by Australian composer Sandra Milliken and Scotsman Sir James MacMillan, blending classical mastery with modern genius.
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time
Wollongong Workshop Theatre presents Simon Stephens' stage adaptation of Mark Haddon's acclaimed novel from February 20 to March 7. The story follows Christopher Boone, a mathematical genius who investigates the death of his neighbour's dog after being wrongly accused of the crime.
Despite his intellectual gifts, Christopher struggles with everyday interactions and fears strangers, having never ventured beyond his street alone. This powerful theatrical journey offers a unique perspective through the eyes of a neurodivergent boy navigating an overwhelming world.
In pursuit of authentic representation, many cast and crew members identify as neurodivergent. The production has partnered with ASPECT (Autism Spectrum Australia) to support these themes, extending meaningful engagement from the stage to the local community.
With such a diverse and compelling lineup, the Illawarra arts scene demonstrates its vibrant cultural heartbeat. Whether you're drawn to dance, theatre, film, or classical music, this weekend offers unforgettable experiences for all audiences.
