The Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts is set to dazzle Perth audiences with an ambitious lineup of over 300 performances throughout 2026, marking a significant milestone as it transitions to its new home at Edith Cowan University's city campus. This expansive program, unveiled ahead of the official opening of ECU City this month, will be hosted at the state-of-the-art Minderoo Centre for Performance Excellence, signalling a vibrant new era for one of Australia's premier creative institutions.
A New Chapter for Performing Arts in Perth
WAAPA's executive dean, Professor David Shirley, emphasised that this move into the city represents a transformative step for the academy. "Our new performance space and cutting-edge facility will ensure WAAPA maintains its position at the forefront of performing arts training, both nationally and internationally," he stated. The relocation to the heart of Perth is expected to enhance accessibility and engagement with the broader community, fostering a dynamic cultural hub.
Diverse Performances Across Genres
The year-long program promises a rich tapestry of artistic expressions, encompassing:
- Theatre productions, including Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet at the Heath Ledger Theatre
- Dance performances, such as LINK Dance Company's Enter Coda at the Liberty Theatre
- Classical and contemporary music concerts, with many free to the public
- Jazz collaborations, opera, and musical theatre offerings
This diverse schedule ensures that there will be something to captivate every arts enthusiast, from seasoned aficionados to curious newcomers.
International Artists and Philanthropic Support
A standout feature of the 2026 program is the Premier Visiting Artists Fund, a $7 million initiative supported by the Minderoo Foundation through its groundbreaking philanthropic agreement with WAAPA. This fund will bring world-renowned creatives to Perth, enriching the local arts scene. The inaugural visiting artist is Ukrainian-born Australian classical pianist Alexander Gavrylyuk, hailed by fellow pianist Roger Woodward as "the most compelling pianist of his generation." Gavrylyuk will spend a week in residency in Perth during March, culminating in a performance at WAAPA.
Additionally, Grammy Award-winning jazz composer and bandleader Maria Schneider will collaborate with the WAAPA Big Band for a special October performance at the new McCusker Recital Hall. These high-profile engagements underscore WAAPA's commitment to providing exceptional training and exposure for its students.
Student Productions and Community Engagement
The performance calendar is brimming with student-led productions across Perth's major venues. Highlights include:
- The first performance in WAAPA's new Playhouse Theatre in September, featuring Purcell's The Fairy Queen
- Music theatre students presenting the hit Broadway musical & Juliet at the Regal Theatre
- A contemporary Australian reimagining of The Bacchae by performance making students in November at the new Flex Theatre
Beyond ticketed events, the program includes free concerts throughout the year and weekend workshops tailored for high school students, promoting arts education and community involvement.
Accessibility and Further Information
Copies of the 2026 WAAPA performance program are available from the WAAPA Box Office via Roe Street or can be downloaded online. This initiative not only showcases the talent of WA's next generation of performers but also reinforces Perth's growing reputation as a cultural destination. With its blend of student creativity and international excellence, WAAPA's 2026 program is poised to make a lasting impact on the performing arts landscape in Western Australia.
