Everything to catch across the Kingston Arts Centre and the Shirley Burke Theatre.
If you’re looking for something to do this autumn, look no further. In the south of Melbourne, between the bay and the ‘burbs sits two entertainment venues with event calendars to rival all others. Kingston Arts Centre and the Shirley Burke Theatre are pulling out all the stops when it comes to comedy, theatre, live music and art.
A stone’s throw from the beach, the Shirley Burke Theatre in Parkdale is a hub of arts and culture that invites visitors from far and wide to join in on the action. A little further north, the Kingston Arts Centre and adjoining City Hall is sitting pretty with a plethora of shows and events that offer a little something for every kind of audience member.
Read on to find out which events, shows, workshops, performances and exhibitions to hit up in Kingston over the next few months.
Keep up with the latest music news, features, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
Shapes! The Belair Lip Bombs and Lotte Gallagher
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- Sunday, April 27, from 2pm to 5pm
- Tickets here
The kids are alright this Sunday arvo in April with the brand new Shapes! program inviting teens from 13 to 17 years of age to get down to the Arts Centre for an explosive show. The Belair Lip Bombs are taking to the stage for this very special underage gig, supported by teen prodigy Lotte Gallagher.
Magnify: Artists in Residence
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- Until Friday 25 April 2025
- More info here
Applications are now open for the second year of Kingston Arts’ exciting artist residency program, Magnify. Hosted in Moorabbin, this three-month residency provides rent-free communal studio spaces and a $1,500 stipend to support artistic development.
Live at City Hall: Josh Pyke
- Saturday 7 June 2025, 7:30pm
- Tickets here
Aussie music legend Josh Pyke is heading to Kingston City Hall this winter. Since his debut album Memories & Dust shot to #4 on the ARIA charts in 2007, Pyke has cemented his status as one of the country’s most beloved songwriters, collecting four ARIA Awards and an APRA Award along the way. Known for his multi-layered melodies and deeply personal yet relatable lyrics, Pyke brings tracks from his latest album To Find Happiness to Moorabbin.
Live at City Hall: Emma Donovan
- Saturday 5 July 2025, 7pm
- Tickets here
ARIA-nominated powerhouse Emma Donovan brings her soul-stirring sounds to Kingston City Hall this July. With over two decades touring the globe, this proud Gumbaynggirr and Yamatji woman first took the stage with her renowned family band The Donovans. Now celebrated for her collaborations with Melbourne rhythm outfit The Putbacks and the extraordinary Black Arm Band project, Donovan regularly performs in traditional languages, sharing stories that connect audiences to Country and community.
Workshop Programs
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- Every Monday, 6.30pm to 8pm
- More info here
Each Monday night, you’re invited to participate in one of the plethora of workshops on offer at the Kingston Arts Centre. From paper quilling to leathercraft basics, this is a perfect way to learn a new skill while connecting with community.
Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow
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- Saturday, May 3, from 7.30pm
- Kingston City Hall
- Tickets here
Back for a mammoth 27th year, the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow is swinging through Kingston City Hall for one night only. Hosted by Sam Taunton, comedians Alex Ward, Con Coutis, Janty Blair and Nick Schuller will no doubt send you home with belly stitches and rock-hard ribs.
Comedy at the Shirley
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- Friday, May 2, from 7.30pm
- Tickets here
Get down to the Shirley Burke Theatre this Friday in May for a night chock full of laughs and legends. Some of the best rising talent in Naarm’s comedy scene will be taking the stage, with Kirsty Webeck, Matt Stewart and Charisa Bossinakis promising a night you won’t forget.
Check out everything that is going down at the Kingston Arts Centre and the Shirley Burke Theatre here.
This article was made in partnership with the City of Kingston.