Address: Peacock Theatre

Performances :
Saturday 8 February 2025, 6:00pm – 7:30pm : SOLD OUT!
Sunday 9 February 2025, 6:00pm – 7:30pm

Tickets : General Admission $40 (+BF)
Recommended for ages 12+

TICKETS

Follow Mikelangelo, the Nightingale of the Adriatic, as he sails the wild seas and the darkest depths of the ocean with his trusty guitar, his booming baritone and his sparkling accordion.

Co-created by Tracy Bourne and Michael Simic, performed by Mikelangelo.

On his adventures Mikelangelo encounters a beautiful mermaid in her underwater cave, a lonely ice queen in her frozen castle, and a huge Sperm whale from the darkest depths of the ocean.

Mikelangelo weaves songs and storytelling into a magical, mysterious voyage into the unknown. Full of laughter, imagination and unexpected twists and turns, this new solo show will captivate and delight audiences young and old, and everyone in between.

In the Belly of the Whale was created in collaboration with writer/director Tracy Bourne, who has worked on extensively in music theatre in Australia, including productions with Chamber Made Opera, Melbourne International Festival and the ABC.

Mikelangelo is the alter-ego of songwriter and creative dynamo Michael Simic. For 25 years, he has travelled Australia and the globe, as a solo performer, and fronting his long term group Mikelangelo and the Black Sea Gentlemen. He has packed venues and received critical accolades from the Sydney Opera House to London’s West End, releasing 17 independent albums and building a worldwide following.

In The Belly of the Whale has its’ international premiere at the Australian Wooden Boat Festival. Following the success of the Mikelangelo and Van Diemen’s Band performances of Songs of the Sea at AWBF in 2023, we recommend you book early, as these shows are likely to sell out.

Screenings :
Saturday 8 – Monday 10 February 2025

Film Info & Session Times below

ENTRY BY DONATION

SESSION TIMES

Join us at the iconic Peacock Theatre for a captivating showcase of thought-provoking documentaries celebrating Pacific maritime history and culture, rich storytelling, and the power of film.

THE SALTWATER STORY

Guided by Indigenous canoemaker Kyle Slabb from the Bundjalung people, a group of young men (both Indigenous and non-Indigenous) build traditional canoes and embark on a 3-day sea voyage re-tracing an ancient trade route from the heart of the Queensland Gold Coast to North Stradbroke Island, a journey not made for over 100 years.

Screening : Saturday 8 February 2025, 10:00am – 11:00am
Duration : 55 minutes

WHETŪ MĀRAMA – BRIGHT STAR

For Māori, the canoe underpins our culture. We built waka from giant trees and sailed the vast Pacific by the stars. These arts were lost to us for 600 years. Then the stars re-aligned and three men from far flung islands met by chance to revive our place as the greatest navigators on the planet.

Screening : Saturday 8 February 2025, 11:30am – 1:05pm
Duration : 1 hour 34 minutes

THE BOUNTY (Ages 14+)

Captain Bligh (Anthony Hopkins) struggles to restore discipline among the crew of the HMS Bounty after the ship has an extended furlough in Tahiti. After the captain doles out floggings and other physical punishments, the crew mutinies, led by Bligh’s former close friend, Fletcher Christian (Mel Gibson). Unable to return to their tropical paradise, the mutineers find themselves stranded, while Bligh and his faithful crew members embark on a dangerous journey to the Dutch East Indies.

Screening : Saturday 8 February 2025, 1:30pm – 3:45pm
Duration : 2 hours 12 minutes

WHALE RIDER

Only males are allowed to ascend to chiefdom in a Maori tribe in New Zealand. This ancient custom is upset when the child selected to be the next chief dies at birth. However his twin sister, Pai (Keisha Castle-Hughes), survives. At age 12, she enlists the help of her grandmother (Vicky Haughton) and the training of her uncle (Grant Roa) to claim her birthright. But to break with convention, she’ll have to do the impossible: win over her ultra-traditional grandfather (Rawiri Paratene).

Screening : Sunday 9 February 2025, 9:30am – 11:10am
Duration : 1 hour 41 minutes

SAILAU

An award-winning documentary about the circumnavigation of the island of New Guinea in a traditional canoe.

The film will be followed by a Q&A with the Director, Thor F. Jensen

Screening : Sunday 9 February 2025, 11:30am – 1:40pm
Duration : 1 hour 38 minutes + Q&A

TUPAIA’S ENDEAVOUR

A first contact story, told from a Pacific point of view.

Who was Tupaia—this high-priest, star-navigator, and extraordinary artist? This film seeks to uncover the history of Tupaia and his journey aboard Cook’s HMS Endeavour. Retrace the footsteps of Tupaia in true Polynesian style.

Screening : Sunday 9 February 2025, 2:00pm – 4:00pm
Duration : 1 hour 59 minutes

CLIPPER SHIP ‘CITY OF ADELAIDE’

The Clipper Ship ‘City of Adelaide’ has spent the past two years engaged in meticulous logistical and engineering planning, utilising high-level in-house expertise, to prepare for its move to a permanent home on land at Dock 2.

The film features stunning high-quality drone footage that enhances the presentation by showcasing the complexity of transporting the 585-tonne ship and its cradle. The footage captures the entire process, from the transfer from the barge to the wharf, navigating between buildings, and maneuvering down a ramp into a shallow pit constructed as the ship’s permanent display foundation.

The film will be followed by a 30 minute Q&A from the CSCOAL team.

Screening : Monday 10 February 2025, 9:30am – 10:30am
Duration : 30 minutes + Q&A

WE, THE VOYAGERS, OUR MOANA

We are the living crew of Lata, our Polynesian culture-hero who built the first voyaging canoe and navigated across the Pacific. We use only ancient designs, materials, and methods, and we invite everyone to reconnect with ancestors and sustainable lifeways. This is the real Moana!

The film will be followed by a 30 min Q&A with co-Director, Marianne “Mimi” George, Ph.D. Co-founder of Pacific Traditions Society, Sailor, Anthropologist, Emeritus.

Screening : Monday 10 February 2025, 10:45am – 12:15pm
Duration : 1 hour + Q&A

PACIFIC MOTHER

“Why do mothers have to fight so hard for what feels so right?”

The documentary Pacific Mother began with this simple question from Sachiko Fukumoto. In Pacific Mother, Sachiko travels from Japan to Hawai’i, Tahiti, the Cook Islands and Aotearoa New Zealand to connect with strong ocean women, whose stories about birth and parenthood inspire a more traditional, connected way of life.

Screening : Monday 10 February 2025, 12:30pm – 2:00pm
Duration : 1hour 30 minutes

CHARLIE + MEL + PROPH (Credit Jacob Golding, GOLDINGcreative.)

Wednesday 22 January 2025
Doors Open 5:30pm | Performance from 6:00pm – 9:00pm

Duration : 2 Hours (45 minute sets, with interval between)

Tickets :
General Admission $15

Tickets

Three incredible artists. One unforgettable night.

Join us at the Peacock Theatre for a SESSIONS Supported Gig that brings together the raw talent, soul, and storytelling of Charlie Woods, Mel Barnett, and Prophecy Mudzingwa.

Charlie Woods pours heart and soul into every note, drawing on their journey as a queer artist in lutruwita/Tasmania. Their music moves seamlessly from reflective, emotional ballads to feel-good grooves, connecting with listeners in a way that feels personal and universal.

Mel Barnett is a powerhouse of soulful vocals and commanding stage presence. With influences like Aretha Franklin and Adele, she blends timeless sounds with a modern edge, delivering performances that are full of warmth, energy, and creativity.

Prophecy Mudzingwa brings charisma and versatility to the stage, combining a dynamic voice with a passion for connecting through music. His energy and artistry will leave you hooked from the first note.

This is a night to celebrate Tasmanian talent, creativity, and the power of live performance. They’ll be backed by an incredible lineup of talented musicians, adding depth and energy to every moment on stage. Whether you’re a fan of soulful storytelling or electric stage energy, this lineup has something for everyone.

Workshops :
Wednesday 22 January 2025, 10:00am – 12:00noon
Thursday 23 January 2025, 10:00am – 12:00noon

Duration : 2 hours (per session)
Doors Open 15 minutes prior

All Ages / Family -Friendly Workshop

Tickets :
Participant Tickets: $65 per session. Limited to 10 spots per session, participants will work directly with Penny McDonald and Jacob Golding, receiving personalized guidance in applying Alexander Technique principles.
Audit Tickets: $25 per session. Auditors will observe the process, gaining valuable insights into Alexander Technique and its application in performance and well-being.

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Experience the transformative power of Alexander Technique in this exciting Masterclass with Penny McDonald and Jacob Golding. Designed for performers and anyone eager to learn, the event offers participation and audit options. With limited spots available, don’t miss this unique opportunity to explore Alexander Technique in Hobart.

Alexander Technique: LIVE! brings the transformative practice of Alexander Technique to the iconic Peacock Theatre in Hobart. Led by Penny McDonald, alongside Jacob Golding, this Masterclass provides an incredible opportunity to experience and witness first-hand how Alexander Technique enhances movement, presence, and well-being, particularly in the performing arts.

This event follows the widely used Participant/Audit format, a structure that offers deep learning opportunities for everyone involved. Participants work directly with Penny and Jacob, receiving personalised guidance as they explore Alexander Technique in action, while auditors observe the process, gaining valuable insights from a broader perspective.

This format has been successfully utilized by leading acting coaches around the world, including Howard Fine, a world-class acting coach renowned for integrating Alexander Technique into his Masterclasses. Howard’s approach demonstrates how Alexander Technique can empower performers to unlock their full creative potential, a philosophy echoed in this Masterclass.

With only 10 participant spots available, this is a unique opportunity to engage directly with the work live on stage or enjoy the equally valuable experience of auditing.

Thursday 23 January 2025
Doors Open 5:30pm | Performance from 6:00pm – 11:00pm

Duration : 5 Hours (15 minute sets for each performer)

All Ages Event

This is a FREE EVENT, but booking is essential

BOOK NOW

The SESSIONS Project: LIVE! is the beating heart of the program and the foundation of the 2025 relaunch at the iconic Peacock Theatre. This free core event not only celebrates Tasmanian talent through our signature 15-minute open rotating concept but also plays a central role in supporting the vibrant performances, workshops, and events surrounding it.

Showcasing music, performance, and creativity, this all-ages event embodies the spirit of connection and community that The SESSIONS Project is all about. With a dynamic and inclusive atmosphere, it sets the tone for an unforgettable celebration of local artistry.

Performers will be announced in the lead-up, promising a diverse lineup of musicians, artists, and creatives. Tickets are free but essential and can be booked now through our new website. Don’t miss this celebration of talent, creativity, and the Tasmanian arts community.

Nimble by ROOKE. Photo by John Fisher (2024)

Performances :
Saturday 12 April 2025 @ 2:00pm : Matinee
Saturday 12 April 2025 @ 6:00pm
Sunday 13 April 2025 @ 2:00pm : Matinee

Doors Open 20 minutes prior to performance

Duration : 60 minutes | NO Interval

Tickets :
Babies (under 2) $0
Kids (under 16) $10
Concession $15
Adult $20

Tickets available at the door, cash and card options (pending availability).

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An acrobatic treat for all ages!

Tasmania’s own ROOKE brings us all a little closer once more, right to the edge of our seats.

Their new work, Nimble, plays the line between tension and joy, risk and release. Blocks, boxes and acrobats will be stacked and balanced and belly laughs will be had. This intimate work explores connection, humanity and trust.

A treat for the whole family. Not to be missed.

The SESSIONS Project: Team Montage (Credit Jacob Golding & Ursula Holliday - GOLDINGcreative.)

Wednesday 22 & Thursday 23 January 2025
Full Performance & Workshop Schedule available via The SESSIONS Project website

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The SESSIONS Project is more than an arts event – it’s a celebration of local Tasmanian talent, creativity, and community. After a 12-month hiatus, The SESSIONS Project is relaunching at the Peacock Theatre in January 2025 with a 2-day series of specialised events. Discover unforgettable performances that inspire connection and celebrate Tasmania’s thriving arts scene.

This milestone event marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for The SESSIONS Project. From unforgettable live performances to inspiring collaborations, we thrive on creating spaces where our creativity can shine and audiences feel connected to the heartbeat of Tasmania.

Whether you’re a longtime supporter or new to The SESSIONS Project, this is your chance to experience the magic of Tasmanian talent like never before. Explore the full lineup on the website and join us in celebrating the incredible depth of artistry our island has to offer.

The Fan is an avant-garde, dark comedy that explores friendship, obsession, and the quest for identity against a surreal, absurdist backdrop. The story follows the tumultuous relationship between Bobby and Gillian, two eccentric performers grappling with their own existential crises and twisted family histories as they navigate life on the fringes of society.

Season :
Wednesday 11 – Saturday 14 December 2024

Performances :
Wednesday 11 December 2024, 7:30pm – 9:00pm
Thursday 12 December 2024, 7:30pm – 9:00pm
Friday 13 December 2024, 8:00pm – 9:30pm
Saturday 14 December 2024, 1:00pm – 2:30pm : MATINEE
Saturday 14 December 2024, 7:30pm – 9:00pm

Tickets :
Adults $25.00
Concession (Children / Students / Pensions & Seniors) $20.00

Duration : 80 minutes (approx.)

THE FAN contains mature themes, strong language, and references to addiction, mental health struggles, and family conflict.

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Image : Hellgart Mahler. 'Photons' (score excerpt). Digital manupulation by Dominic Flynn.

Performance :
Friday 6 December 2024
Doors 7:30pm | Performance 8:00pm – 9:00pm

Duration : 60 minutes, includes Interval

Tickets :
General Admission $25
Concession $20

tickets

A memorial portrait concert to celebrate the music of Viennese-born Tasmanian composer and friend of the ensemble Hellgart Mahler (1931-2023).

Members of Tasmania’s music community will perform works from across the composer’s near-70-year-long career.

Program :

Scherzo & Quatro (1989) – Scherzo 1
Three Galactic Fragments (1966) – vibraphone transcription
Equations (1980)
Icknield (1978)
INTERVAL
Scherzo & Quatro (1989) – Scherzo 2
Glasscapes (1976) – excerpts
Sound Sculptures (1994)
Icknield II (1978)

Supported by The City of Hobart and Salamanca Arts Centre.

More SAC Supported

Outdoor

Portrait Busker

Joshua Lamb

Saturday 11 Jan – Saturday 31 May 2025

The Courtyard

Follow Mikelangelo, the Nightingale of the Adriatic, as he sails the wild seas and the darkest depths of the ocean with his trusty guitar, his booming baritone and his sparkling accordion.

Join us at the iconic Peacock Theatre for a captivating showcase of thought-provoking documentaries celebrating Pacific maritime history and culture, rich storytelling, and the power of film.

THE SALTWATER STORY

WHETŪ MĀRAMA – BRIGHT STAR

THE BOUNTY (Ages 14+)

WHALE RIDER

SAILAU

TUPAIA’S ENDEAVOUR

CLIPPER SHIP ‘CITY OF ADELAIDE’

WE, THE VOYAGERS, OUR MOANA

PACIFIC MOTHER

Three incredible artists. One unforgettable night.Join us at the Peacock Theatre for a SESSIONS Supported Gig that brings together the raw talent, soul, and storytelling of Charlie Woods, Mel Barnett, and Prophecy Mudzingwa.

An acrobatic treat for all ages!

A memorial portrait concert to celebrate the music of Viennese-born Tasmanian composer and friend of the ensemble Hellgart Mahler (1931-2023). Members of Tasmania’s music community will perform works from across the composer’s near-70-year-long career.

ThylaSing presents Hits Across the Decades – an evening of world-class a cappella featuring songs by Queen, The Beatles, A-Ha, Coldplay, Miley Cyrus, Kelly Clarkson and much much more!

Three incredible artists. One unforgettable night.

Join us at the Peacock Theatre for a SESSIONS Supported Gig that brings together the raw talent, soul, and storytelling of Charlie Woods, Mel Barnett, and Prophecy Mudzingwa.

A memorial portrait concert to celebrate the music of Viennese-born Tasmanian composer and friend of the ensemble Hellgart Mahler (1931-2023).

Members of Tasmania’s music community will perform works from across the composer’s near-70-year-long career.