West Gippsland Arts Centre celebrates run of hit shows post-COVID

Following more than two years of little show time due to imposed COVID restrictions, the West Gippsland Arts Centre is celebrating the return of many community groups and residents and a run of recent sell-outs and hit shows.

Shows have included Human Nature, Jon Stevens, Kate Ceberano, Xavier Rudd, John Williamson, Kate Miller-Heidke, Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, The Wiggles and more.

Baw Baw Shire Council Chief Executive, Mark Dupe enthused “we’re incredibly excited about the arts centre’s upcoming program and new direction that it is taking under Rowenna Dunn’s leadership.

“The overwhelming response to recent shows tells us that the community is eager to attend live entertainment again. We’re delighted to cater to that excitement with a program that really does offer something for everyone.”

The Arts Centre nears its 40th Anniversary later this year and has a special celebration event in the planning to mark the occasion.

Recently secured partnerships with major industry players Live Nation and Frontier Touring are a highlight, promising to bring a new echelon of international performers and tours to the region.

In another change for the venue, restaurant Albert + Smith and the West Gippsland Arts Centre will be parting ways, effective from 27th August 2022.

“Council wishes to acknowledge and thank David and Sam O’Neill and their team for the contribution that Albert + Smith Restaurant has made to the Arts Centre throughout their tenancy,” said Dupe. “The dining experience they have offered patrons has been of a consistently high standard. On behalf of Council, we wish them well in their future endeavours.”

With the first half of the season already flown by, WGAC’s program will be maintaining momentum right through to the end year, as Brisbane’s acclaimed shake & stir theatre arrive with their production of Jane Eyre, followed by “Aussie rock legends” Goanna celebrating 40 years of Spirit of Place, and a hotly anticipated performance by the world’s most popular ABBA show, Bjorn Again.

To keep up to date with all the latest shows and exciting developments from the West Gippsland Arts Centre, visit www.wgac.com.au.

Image top: Xavier Rudd performing at West Gippsland Arts Centre; image above: shake & stir theatre production of Jane Eyre