LIVE: 30+ entertainers locked in for Mackay in 2021
After being forced into radio silence last year, Mackay’s 2021 calendar is bursting with awesome acts to keep us entertained
Mackay
Don't miss out on the headlines from Mackay. Followed categories will be added to My News.
Killer Queen.
ELO.
Noiseworks.
Bluey.
Mackay Festival of Arts.
After being forced into radio silence last year, the MECC's 2021 calendar is bursting with awesome acts to keep us entertained.
MECC manager Andrew Bobeldyk said he was terribly excited about the line-up at the MECC this year after COVID ruined the 2020 calendar.
"I'm glad borders have been reopening," he said.
"We're hopeful things will continue to stay open while they work through the pandemic.
"The team is excited to be back at full swing again.
"And we're excited to use the facilities we upgraded when we didn't have a lot on.
"We're really rapt the MECC is back and doing our best to secure the best entertainment possible."
Mr Bobeldyk said Bluey was probably the biggest coup for 2021 so far but he was also pleased to hear the Festival of Arts was likely to go ahead this year.
"Securing Bluey is the national tour organisers having faith in us," he said.
"It is the national tour organisers putting faith in the regional Queensland touring market."
Mr Bobeldyk's personal favourite though is Viral, by Shock Therapy, which looks at how we use social media and technology, and how, for example, Donald Trump got elected as United States president.
We kicked off on Friday night with Dustier Than Ever - A Show in Honour of Slim Dusty.
But here's the rest of the MECC line-up for the year - with more than 30 events already locked in.
Rockaria - The ELO Experience
Rockaria - The ELO Experience is a tribute show that delivers a captivating live concert recreating the unforgettable sound of Jeff Lynne's, The Electric Light Orchestra.
Formed in 1970 in Birmingham England, ELO was formed out of Jeff Lynne and Roy Wood's desire to create modern rock and pop songs with classical overtones.
During the 1970s and 1980s, ELO released a string of top 10 albums and singles, including two LPs that reached the top of British charts: the disco inspired Discovery (1979) and the science fiction themed concept album Time (1981). In 1988, Jeff Lynne together with George Harrison formed The Travelling Wilburys with fellow members Bob Dylan, Roy Orbison and Tom Petty.
Performing all the classic hits including Evil Woman, Living Thing, Don't Bring Me Down, Telephone Line, Sweet Talkin' Woman, Strange Magic, Do Ya, Rock n Roll Is King, Hold on Tight, Roll Over Beethoven, Can't Get it Out Rockaria - The ELO Experience Of My Head, Rockaria plus many more.
Also including legendary songs by The Travelling Wilburys including Handle with Care, End of The Line, Last Night, Wilbury Twist.
Thursday February 11 2021, 7.30pm
MECC Auditorium
$69.50 Adult
$62.50 Friend/MECC Card
$62.50 Concession | $62.50 Pensioner
$62.50 Group 10+
Bluey's Big Play - The Stage Show
When Dad feels like a little bit of Sunday arvo time out, Bluey and Bingo have other plans!
Join them as they pull out all of the games and ingenuity at their disposal to get Dad off that bean bag.
Bluey's Big Play is a brand-new theatrical adaptation of the Emmy award-winning children's television series, with an original story by Bluey's creator Joe Brumm, and new music by Brisbane's Beethoven and Bluey composer, Joff Bush.
Join the Heelers in their first live theatre show made just for you, featuring brilliantly
created puppets, this is Bluey brought to real life as you've never seen it before.
Kids meals available for this event
Saturday February 13 2021, 2pm and 6pm
Sunday February 14 2021, 10am, 1pm and 4pm
MECC Auditorium
$45.90 Adult
$41.90 Friend/MECC Card
$45.90 Child | $41.90 Group 4+
$41.90 Family (2A+2C)
Children 18 months and under are free on
the knee provided they do not occupy a seat.
Jon Stevens - The Noiseworks & INXS Collection (18+ Event)
In 2018 a co-founding member of INXS, Andrew Farriss surprised Jon by entering the band room after not seeing each other in 15 years to say, "That was an awesome gig Jon,
but you really need to do more INXS songs".
Jon was on The Best of Jon Stevens Tour reflecting on his 40-year career, performing songs from Noiseworks, Jesus Christ Superstar, The Dead Daisies and his solo collection with just a couple of INXS classics.
This reunion with his old friend with whom he'd shared the stage with around the world fronting INXS from 2000-2005 formed the idea for his new tour Jon Stevens | The Noiseworks and INXS Collection Tour.
The tour brings hits Take Me Back, New Sensation, Touch, Don't Change, Hot Chilli Woman, Never Tear Us Apart, No Lies and more.
This show is an assault of the senses, with nothing but relentless hits!
A visceral charge of emotion that will transport you back to 1987 and beyond including the INXS songs that were such a huge part of the soundtrack of our lives.
Friday February 19 2021, 7.30pm
MECC Auditorium
$62.30 Adult
Leaving Jackson - The Johnny Cash and June Carter Show
All the hits in this unforgettable tribute concert dedicated to the music, love and lives of Johnny Cash and June Carter.
For more than 40 years Johnny Cash and June Carter enthralled audiences around the world with their songs of life, love and heartache.
A love story played out through some of the greatest songs ever written. Now Jeff Carter together with Brooke McMullen bring to life a captivating and unforgettable musical concert.
This two-hour live concert event "Leaving Jackson" The Johnny Cash & June Carter show will have you singing, laughing and crying for more.
Platters available for this event
Saturday February 20 2021, 7.30pm
MECC Auditorium
$62 Adult | $55 Friend/MECC Card
$55 Concession | $55 Pensioner
$25 Student | $25 Child U18
$55 Group 6+
The Killer Queen Experience
The hits. The memories. The experience. After sold-out tribute shows all over the world, Australia's The Killer Queen Experience is returning to Mackay to rock the entertainment centre for one night only!
Get ready, experience your favourite Queen songs and memories live on stage, presented by Freddie Mercury performer John Blunt (star biopic - Who Wants to Live Forever).
Celebrate Queen. Celebrate Queensland. And get ready to rock!
Platters available for this event
Friday February 26, 2021, 7.30pm
MECC Auditorium
Prices from February 7 at 9am
$59.90 Adult | $54.90 Friend/MECC
$49.90 Concession | $49.90 Pensioner
$49.90 Student | $49.90 Child U12
$49.90 Group 8+
The MECC presents Viral by Shock Therapy Productions
What is the price of internet fame?
Viral tells the story of Art and Zane - two boys who seek to attain internet 'fame' to become more popular at school and make some money.
Inspired by true events, Viral examines the role of social media and technology and how it impacts the way we record, communicate and think about events of racism, abuse and violence in our community, investigating the line between disassociation and raising awareness about such events.
Viral uses physical theatre, multiple role-sharing, verbatim, political theatre, AV and an evocative musical score and to create a visceral and dynamic theatrical experience.
Age Recommendation: 13 years+
Wednesday March 3 2021, 10.30am
MECC Auditorium
$25 Adult | $20 Friend/MECC Card
$20 Concession | $20 Pensioner
$20 Student | $20 Group 6+
CDP Kids presents The Very Hungry Caterpillar
Created by Jonathan Rockefeller and based on Eric Carle's Books.
One of the most read and famous children's books of all time, The Very Hungry Caterpillar emerges off the page in a masterful theatrical experience for children 18 months+ and their
adults.
Created by Jonathan Rockefeller, the production features a menagerie of more than 75 magical puppets, including the star of the show - The Very Hungry Caterpillar - and an Australian cast who bring these beloved books to life on stage.
Alongside The Very Hungry Caterpillar, the show features three other Eric Carle stories, including Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?
The team behind the Australian tours of The Gruffalo, Spot, and The 13, 26, 52, 78 & 91-Storey Treehouses will excite, educate and entertain new readers and first-time theatre-goers, while those who grew up with these books will delight in experiencing one of the most popular children's books ever written.
Don't miss out!
Age Recommendation: 18 months+
Kids Meals are available for this event - Caterpillar Themed Sweet item included
Tuesday March 9 2021, 6pm
Wednesday March 10 2021, 9.30am and 12.30pm
MECC Auditorium
$16.50 Admission
$60 Family (2A +2C)
Queensland Symphony Orchestra - Firebird - An Instrumental Spectacular (Free livestreamed event)
Queensland Symphony Orchestra will host one of the greatest pianists Queensland has ever produced Piers Lane.
The orchestra will perform Franz Liszt's monumental first concerto for piano and orchestra and this live concert experience will come directly to Mackay.
Livestreamed from QPAC's acoustically superb Concert Hall, Firebird presents a monumental music experience featuring music by a few of the masters - Franz Liszt, Weber and Stravinsky.
Liszt was one of the geniuses of the piano in the 19th century, but he also knew how to share the stage with an orchestra, and this work is a spectacular showcase for pianist and orchestral musicians alike.
The concert finishes with a suite of music from Stravinsky's ballet The Firebird.
This astonishing orchestral work tells the story of a prince who is aided by an enchanted bird, and is regarded as one of the great masterpieces, not just of ballet music, but of all
orchestral music.
Saturday March 20 2021, 7.30pm
MECC Auditorium
Free ticketed event
World of Musicals
The Musical Gala with an international cast brings London's West End and New York's
Broadway return to Australia with a brand-new show.
The World of Musicals brings the very best of Musical theatre to life.
This incredible production with the wonderful revue of all your favourite musical theatre hits which include such classics as, The Lion King, Fiddler on the roof, Mamma Mia, We Will Rock You, The Mikado, The Pirates of Penzance, HMS Pinafore, The Phantom of the Opera, West Side Story, Cats, Evita, Wicked, The Rocky Horror Picture show, Jesus Christ Superstar, The Greatest Showman, Jersey Boys, Oklahoma, South Pacific, Miss Saigon, The Boy from OZ, Hairspray, Les Misérables, The Blues Brothers.
The World of Musicals is colourful, inspiring and memorable musical classics, all performed by an International star-studded cast, presenting the audience with nightly entertainment at the highest level.
Whether a soloist - duet or the entire ensemble, the performers of this musical event will inspire in this Musical Whirlwind. Direct from their USA tour, this select cast of Highly Talented and Accomplished Performers have featured in worldwide smash hits such as Jesus Christ Superstar, Hairspray, West side Story, Titanic, Les Miserables, Wizard of OZ, Musical Star Nights, Mary Poppins, Me and my girl, Evita, the king of Narnia, Rent, Ave "Q".
The World of the Musicals is a show for the entire family, so get ready to be enthralled and sing along to all your favourite and much-loved musicals in one unforgettable evening.
The World of musicals simply not to be missed.
Platters available for this event
Sunday April 11 2021, 7.30pm
MECC Auditorium
$79.90 Adult
$74.90 Concession | $59.90 Child U16
$74.90 Group 10+
$269.60 Family Pass (2A + 2C)
Australia Day 2021 stories:
FULL LIST: Every 2021 winner in Mackay Australia Day awards
Veteran's tireless mission for his mates earns top honour
Mackay OAM recipient learnt 'to care' from WWII veteran dad
GALLERY: Massive crowd celebrates Mackay's best citizens
Humble Bowen ambo makes Australia Day Honours List
FULL LIST: Whitsunday Australia Day award winners unveiled
Emmett eyes off big future conquering animal kingdom
VMR Mackay volunteer's passion lies with team and service
50th Anniversary - The Ultimate Eagles Experience
50th Anniversary - The Ultimate Eagles Experience is a tribute show that delivers a captivating live concert celebrating the synonymous country/rock sound of the Eagles.
Performing all the classic Eagles hits including 'Desperado', 'Take It Easy', 'New Kid In Town', 'Take It To The Limits', 'Heartache Tonight' and the legendary 'Hotel California', among many more with a mix of solo hits from members Don Henley, Joe Walsh and the late Glenn Frey.
Get set to be entertained as the signature harmonies and musicianship of the Eagles are recreated to perfection.
The Ultimate Eagles Experience is a concert performance not to be missed.
Platters available for this event
Saturday April 24 2021, 7.30pm
MECC Auditorium
$69.50 Adult
$62.50 Friend/MECC Card
$62.50 Concession | $62.50 Pensioner
$62.50 Group 10+
The Wiggles - We're All Fruit Salad Australia Tour
The We're All Fruit Salad Tour!, featuring Wiggly classics and new songs from the group, will begin in Canberra on April 6 and finish in Brisbane on May 2 - travelling to Perth, Adelaide, Bendigo, Melbourne, Wollongong, Newcastle, Sydney, Townsville and Mackay in between!
The Wiggles' founding member, and Blue Wiggle Anthony Field says "The We're All Fruit Salad Tour! is a truly wonderful show and I can't wait for our fans to experience it! You'll hear all the classic songs you love plus new ones! The show will feature a variety of dance styles and performances that go with different styles of music. Children will see and hear drums, keyboards, banjo, guitars, bagpipes and lots of singing."
Big Red Car experience: The Big Red Car Experience is perfect for people who want great seats in a fantastic location close to the stage. More information regarding times and locations to collect your gifts at the show will be provided three to five days before the event.
The Wiggles meet & greet experience 10am show only: This experience is perfect for young fans who would like to meet The Wiggles. This is an add-on to the entry ticket.
Thursday April 29 2021, 10am and 1pm
MECC Auditorium
Big Red Car (Row AAA to Row G)
$103.55 Admission
Hot Potato (Row H to Row T)
$44.25 Admission
A Reserve (Row U to Row Z)
$40.10 Admission
Meet and Greet Upsell 10am show only
$108.80 Meet and Greet (does not include
show ticket)
VIP Merch Pack Upsell
$52.10 VIP Merch Pack (does not
include show ticket)
All ages - Children 12 months and under are free on the knee provided they do not occupy a seat.
Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow
Join the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow in 2021 as it rolls across the country to home deliver the Comedy Festival vibe to every crack and crevice of Australia. From Bega to Broome, Townsville to Traralgon, we're crisscrossing the country taking in more than 80 destinations along the way.
More than any year before, our comedians are chomping at the bit to break out from the barriers, shake off the seclusion and roll out the laughs.
With an all killer, no filler line-up of Australian stars and talented newcomers, buckle in for a night of stand-up, sketch, satire, silliness and song to satisfy all your comedy cravings.
Platters - Make your night complete with an Antipasto Platter or Taste of Melbourne Street
Food Box (one serve per item).
Saturday May 1 2021, 7.30pm
MECC Auditorium
Early Bird Prices
$37.80 Adult
$34.20 Friend/MECC Card
$34.20 Concession | $34.20 Pensioner
$19.80 Student | $34.20 Group 6+
Prices after Monday March 8, 2021
$42 Adult | $38 Friend/MECC Card
$38 Concession | $38 Pensioner
$22 Student | $38 Group 6+
Two of Us - The Songs of Lennon & McCartney
Performers Damien Leith and Darren Coggan come together to celebrate the songbook of the most inspiring songwriters of all time, John Lennon and Paul McCartney.
Performing immortal songs from The Beatles treasure trove of pop history, along with the richness and diversity of Lennon and McCartney's solo careers, Damien and Darren transport the audience back in time, back to the well of inspiration.
Hear the timeless songs of Lennon and McCartney as they would have sounded when they were freshly penned, just a guitar, a piano and two voices.
Two Of Us - The Songs Of Lennon and McCartney, starring Damien Leith & Darren Coggan promises to be a magical, intimate and acoustic portrait of the songs that changed the world.
Platters available for this event
Friday May 7 2021, 7.30pm
MECC Auditorium
$55 Admission
Mackay Musical Comedy Players Presents Mamma Mia
Fresh out of quarantine, MMCP, who brought you The Wizard of Oz, brings you the storytelling magic of ABBA's timeless songs in this enchanting tale of love, laughter and friendship.
More than 60 million people worldwide have fallen in love with the characters, story and the ABBA hits that tell the hilarious story of a young woman's search for her birth father.
This sunny tale unfolds on a Greek island paradise on the eve of her wedding, when the daughter's quest to discover the identity of her father, bring three men from her mother's past back to the island they last visited 20 years ago.
Platters available for this event
Thursday May 20 2021, 8pm
Friday May 21 2021, 8pm
Saturday May 22 2021, 2pm and 8pm
MECC Auditorium
$46 Adult
$39 Friend/MECC Card
$39 Concession
$39 Pensioner
$24 Student (High school)
$24 Child U17
$120 Family Pass (2A + 2C)
$39 Group 6+
A Taste of Ireland
Hot off its premiere New York City run in 2020 and with more than 120 shows in 2019 across Australia and New Zealand, 'A Taste of Ireland - The Irish Music & Dance Sensation' finally returns down under.
With revamped classics like 'Danny Boy' and 'Tell Me Ma', the show's live, energetic blend of well-known tunes, jaw-dropping a cappella tap battles, world-class dancing, melodic folk music mash-ups and craic galore transports you through the story of Ireland's tumultuous history, complemented by stunning production and lighting.
Starring dancers from the West End's Lord of the Dance, Riverdance, & Gaelforce Dance
alongside a treasure trove of Irish Dancing World Champions, 'A Taste of Ireland' delivers
the very best talent in the nation.
It's truly 'Celtic―for this decade'.
COVID-19 - Cancellation Disclaimer: Because of government travel and/or capacity restrictions which may be out of our control, the crew may have to postpone certain legs of our tour. Please note if this was to happen, the event will not be cancelled only postponed until another date. In the event of a postponement, the MECC would contact patrons.
Platters available for this event
Friday May 28 2021, 7.30pm
MECC Auditorium
$74.90 Adult
$64.90 Friend/MECC Card
$69.90 Concession | $69.90 Student
$59.90 Child U13 | $64.90 Group 10+
$89.90 VIP
The Midnight Gang | CDP Kids Production | A play by Maryam Master
Based on the best-selling novel by David Walliams, twelve-year-old Tom unexpectedly finds himself lonely and lost in the children's ward of St Crook's Hospital, away from his family and at the mercy of evil Matron.
Tom feels like he'll never leave, but his fellow young patients have other ideas.
They might be stuck in hospital, but their imaginations can take them anywhere as The Midnight Gang.
Each night when the clock strikes midnight, The Midnight Gang go on a series of amazing journeys as they turn the hospital into the places they've always wanted to go and make dreams come true.
The team behind The 13-, 26-, 52-, 78- and 91-Storey Treehouses, Mr Stink and Billionaire Boy bring David Walliams' best-selling book to life on stage, in a celebration of friendship, love and the power of the imagination for children 6+ and their families.
Age Recommendation: 6-12 years and their adults Duration: About 60 minutes
Kids Sleepover Boxes are available for this event
Tuesday June 1 2021, 6pm
Wednesday June 2 2021, 9.30am and 12.30pm
MECC Auditorium
$16.50 Admission
$60 Family (2A +2C)
Good Morning Vietnam - Music from the Vietnam War Era Live in Concert (16+ event)
The Vietnam War, aka the 'Rock and Roll War', generated some of the 20th century's most
iconic rock, country, folk, soul and pop songs.
These are the songs of hope, courage, love, loss, anger, frustration, and resistance - most of all, these are the songs of connection.
This is a generation defined by its music: The Beatles, Bob Dylan, Aretha Franklin, James Brown, The Animals, Jimi Hendrix, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Johnny Cash, Peter, Paul and Mary - the list goes on, just like the beat!
This show features iconic songs from the 60s and early 70s. Featuring a rocking on stage live band, and incredible vocalists, together with images and stories.
Come and relive the music of a generation, as you sing and dance along to every iconic song!
Platters available for this event
Friday June 4 2021, 7.30pm
MECC Auditorium
$65 Adult
$60 Friend/MECC Card
$60 Concession | $60 Pensioner
$50 Student
$60 ADF Employee (ID will be required)
The Best of Bublé Experience
A spectacular show celebrating the songs and the story of Michael Bublé.
International front man and comedian Rhydian Lewis leads his amazing 4-piece band The Residuals, to bring you one of the finest tributes to this musical sensation.
Rhydian and his band are fast becoming Australia's answer to the likes of Michael Bublé and Frank Sinatra.
With sold out shows a regular occurrence, be sure to check out this magical touring show.
The show includes a stellar line up of Bublé's biggest hits including the way you look tonight, Home, Everything, Lost, Sway, Save the last dance for me, It had better be tonight, Moondance, Haven't met you yet, Feeling good, and many more.
Come laugh, hear stories, and be moved by some of life's truly touching music.
Tour for the Morning Melodies Series.
Friday June 11 2021, 11am
MECC Plenary Halls
$15 Admission
$13.50 Friend/MECC/MAP Member
Jimeoin - Ramble On!
A stalwart of Australian comedy and all-round likeable rogue, comedian Jimeoin in his new stand-up show Ramble On! happily imparts his clever and quirky observations on everyday
suburban life in his trademark devil-may-care style.
Platters available for this event
Age recommendation: 15 years+
Saturday June 12 2021, 8pm
MECC Auditorium
$59.90 Adult
$54.90 Friend/MECC Card
$54.90 Concession | $54.90 Pensioner
$54.90 Student | $54.90 Group 6+
An Ensemble Theatre Production: Appleton Ladies' Potato Race
Appleton is a small country town being forced into the present with a recent influx of wealthy city slickers, tree-changers and refugees.
Simmering tensions come to a head when new GP Penny Anderson discovers that the famous Appleton Potato Race awards $1000 prize money to men, and a measly $200 to women. When Penny decides to take steps to restore gender parity and coax Appleton into the 21st century, little could she have anticipated the spiralling, hilarious culture war that would follow. Inspired by real life events and featuring a cast of five fabulous women, The Appleton Ladies' Potato Race is a funny, honest and heartwarming story about upsetting the potato cart and standing up for your principles.
Platters - Make your night complete with an Antipasto Platter or Dessert Box (one serve
per item).
Thursday June 17 2021, 7.30pm
MECC Auditorium
$42 Adult | $38 Friend/MECC Card
$38 Concession | $38 Pensioner
$22 Student | $38 Group 6+
Platters
$13 Antipasto Platter
$15 Dessert Platter
The Tap Pack
Direct from sold out houses and rave reviews in London, Berlin and Beijing, Australia's newest and hottest tap dance sensation The Tap Pack is coming to Mackay.
Picking up where The Rat Pack left off, The Tap Pack conjures up a modern twist to the crooners and artists from the 50s through to the noughties! Featuring songs from Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr to Sheeran, Bublé and Beyoncé.
The Tap Pack mix slick humour, high energy entertainment and world class tap dance.
A show of pure entertainment inspired by the legendary kings of swing, The Rat Pack, freshly created for the audience today.
Cool classics with a fresh new twist. All your favourites including "The Lady is a Tramp, "Come Fly With Me", "One For My Baby", "Me and My Shadow" and much more.
They sing. They dance. They joke. They bring a new, invigorating energy to a timeless
style.
Platters available for this event
Saturday June 19 2021, 7.30pm
MECC Auditorium
$69.90 Adult
$64.90 Friend/MECC Card
$64.90 Concession | $64.90 Group 8+
$89.90 VIP
Robertson Brothers 1960s Variety TV Show
Do you dream of reliving the good old days?
Well don't miss The Robertson Brothers 1960s Variety Show with special guest Simon Brook McLachlan - from the original cast of the hit musical Jersey Boys.
After a massive 2019, the boys are back with a brand-new tribute show.
Take a trip down memory lane with this amazing interactive live TV Variety Show featuring the hits from: The Seekers, Bee Gees, Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, Neil Sedaka and The Everly Brothers! The Robertson Brothers grew up in a home that appreciated the Variety TV Show.
When designing this new live touring show they decided to reinvent the magic and diversity of the old school 1960s Variety TV shows.
With a rockin' live band and an amazing multimedia presentation, expect to be entertained by
many of the Classic Hits from the 60s.
Through the prism of the Variety TV show format you'll travel back in time to embrace and celebrate all the hits of these 60s Music Legends.
Sunday June 20 2021, 3pm
MECC Auditorium
$69 Adult
$64 Friend/MECC Card
$64 Concession | $64 Pensioner
$64 Student | $64 Group 10+
Margaret Fulton the Musical
A musical biography of a true Aussie legend based on her best-selling autobiography.
Margaret Fulton reigned supreme on our country's cooking scene, awarded an OAM in
1983 and later identified as a National Living Treasure.
The Margaret Fulton Cookbook encouraged Australian housewives to experiment with more interesting ingredients, straying from the old tradition of meat and three veg.
This delightful musical romp follows her journey from humble beginnings to super-stardom.
Platters available for this event
Saturday July 3 2021, 7.30pm
MECC Auditorium
$42 Adult | $38 Friend/MECC Card
$38 Concession | $38 Pensioner
$22 Student | $38 Group 6+
Isaiah Spirit
Isaiah Firebrace has an incredible story. He attended high school on the banks of the Murray River and went without food to fund the six hours of travel that was required to get to his singing lessons each Saturday.
Despite the hardship experienced by so many Aboriginal people, Isaiah knew his dream would become real and that one day he would be an international recording artist.
In the past three and a half years, the talented teen has transformed from a small-town singer to the most streamed First Nations pop artist in the world.
Along the way, he's won The X Factor, represented Australia at the Eurovision Song Contest (finishing in the top 10) and is signed to Sony Music Australia.
The milestones keep adding up for Isaiah across 2020, who continues to perform on TV shows including The Masked Singer (Australia Season 2) and high-profile events across the country including feature vocalist at The Sydney Opera House on Australia Day 2020.
Isaiah has been writing in America and Australia in collaboration with some of the finest
songwriters and producers in the world.
He has written some incredible pop songs which will be released in 2020-21. Isaiah's next single 'You' (released on 11 December) has big pop hooks alongside Isaiah's earthy feels that show exactly where this international recording artist is headed.
Saturday July 10 2021, 7.30pm
MECC Plenary Halls
$25 Adult | $23 Friend/MECC Card
$23 Concession | $23 Student
$23 Group 6+
The MECC and Opera Australia present Bizet's Carmen
Carmen is the femme fatale you can't forget.
In Bizet's famous opera, she sings her sensual Habanera and lures Don José into her world.
He gives up everything to follow her. But Carmen's wandering eye has already found a new lover: the dashing bullfighter Escamillo.
Don José's jealousy is fierce. Escamillo's passion is strong.
In a gripping finale, Carmen must face her fate. Experience the thrilling Spanish colour and rhythms of Bizet's vibrant score with Opera Australia's singers, live chamber orchestra and a children's chorus drawn from the local community.
This new production includes gorgeous sets and vintage-inspired costumes.
You can hear classics such as the Habanera and the Toreador Song just as Bizet meant them - loud, live and completely unamplified.
Platters - Make your night complete with an Antipasto Platter or Tapas Box (one serve per
item).
Saturday July 24 2021, 7.30pm
MECC Auditorium
$42 Adult | $38 Friend/MECC Card
$38 Concession | $38 Pensioner
$22 Student | $38 Group 6+
Platters
$13 Antipasto Platter
$18 Tapas Box
The Last Great Hunt presents New Owner by Arielle Gray and Tim Watts
From the creators of international smash hits, The Adventures of Alvin Sputnik: Deep Sea Explorer and It's Dark Outside comes a sensitive new show for all ages about loss, friendship and new beginnings.
Bart is a boisterous puppy waiting to be chosen from the animal shelter.
Mabel is a lonely widow, trying to fill the hole in her heart. The day they find
each other is the beginning of a profound friendship - but Mabel is old, and Bart is young -
and suddenly alone. Combining puppetry, live action and animation, New Owner takes us
on a world of adventure through a dog's eyes. Nominated for Best Presentation for
Children at the 2017 Helpmann Awards (Australia).
Age recommendation: 7 and older Duration: Approx. 50 minutes
Kids Meals available for this event includes Dog Cupcake as sweet item
Wednesday August 4 2021, 6pm
Thursday August 5 2021, 9.30am
MECC Auditorium
$16.50 Admission
$60 Family (2A +2C)
Pete the Sheep: A Monkey Baa Theatre Company Production
Adapted for the stage by Eva Di Cesare, Sandra Eldridge and Tim McGarry
Based on the book by Jackie French and Bruce Whatley
Pete the Sheep is a lively and mischievous award-winning musical for young audiences and their adults.
Shaun isn't like the other Shearers in Shaggy Gully … he'd rather be styling than shearing and instead of 'sheepdog', he has a 'sheep-sheep' named Pete.
After being rejected by the shearers and their dogs, Shaun and Pete set up their own Shearing Salon in town and before long word is out and they are inundated with woolly clients and maybe a Ringer or two.
This hilarious show, imaginatively told by four performers playing shearers, dogs and sheep explores the challenges and rewards of being an individual and will be a lasting tribute to honouring your own spirit and strength, while working with the flock.
Age Recommendation: 4-9 years old
Duration: About 60 minutes
Kids Meals available for this event includes Sheep biscuit as sweet item
Tuesday August 10 2021, 9.30am and 12.30pm
MECC Auditorium
$16.50 Admission
$60 Family (2A +2C)
The MECC and Bell Shakespeare presents A Midsummer Night's Dream
Shakespeare's classic comedy, A Midsummer Night's Dream, is reawakened in this breathless production brimming with magic, mirth and mayhem.
Love is in the air in Athens - and it's contagious.
Besides the royal wedding, which is just days away, there are young lovers dreaming of enchanted futures together. Hermia and Lysander are besotted with one another, while Helena adores Demetrius.
The only snag is that Demetrius loves Hermia - and he's got Hermia's father on his side. So, nobody is happy. (Shakespeare wasn't kidding when he said the course of true love never ran smooth.)
Determined to be together, Hermia and Lysander meet in a moonlit forest, with plans to elope. Following hot on their heels is Demetrius, who in turn is pursued by a lovelorn Helena.
But the young lovers are not alone in the forest.
Nick Bottom and his hapless bunch of tradies have gathered to rehearse a play to be performed at the royal wedding.
And, hidden from human eyes, a mischievous sprinkling of fairies are also in the forest that night.
The three worlds collide in an explosion of comic confusion that throws the future of all the lovers into jeopardy.
This production is quick as a shadow. Fast, funny and family-friendly, this is A Midsummer Night's Dream reimagined.
Platters - Make your night complete with an Antipasto Platter or The Fierce Food Box (one
serve per item).
Thursday September 9 2021, 7.30pm
MECC Auditorium
$42 Adult | $38 Friend/MECC Card
$38 Concession | $38 Pensioner
$22 Student | $38 Group 6+
Platters
$13 Antipasto Platter
$18 The Fierce Food Box
The MECC and Shake and Stir Theatre Co. presents Animal Farm by George Orwell
Animal Farm, one of the most enduring political commentaries returns in a multi-award winning, critically acclaimed theatre production.
George Orwell's intensely powerful fairytale allegorises and satirises communist governments while illustrating with stunning simplicity how greed and power corrupts with devastating consequences to all who yield.
Revolution has taken place at Manor Farm. The pigs have assumed control and all the
animals, fuelled by enthusiastic camaraderie and guided by a set of self-imposed rules, are
promised a better life free from the self-serving greed of humans.
However, it is not long until the rules that promised equality and freedom become the shackles that bind the animals once again.
Platters available for this event
Tuesday November 2 2021, 7.30pm
MECC Auditorium
$42 Adult | $38 Friend/MECC Card
$38 Concession | $38 Pensioner
$22 Student | $38 Group 6+
Bloom Sings Stevie Nicks, Carole King and Linda Ronstadt Songbook
Stevie Nicks, Carole King and Linda Ronstadt are arguably three of the world's most recognisable voices.
With combined record sales topping more than 300 million units sold, as well as an endless wealth of top 20 hits between them, they truly are three of the world's greatest.
Melbourne singer-songwriter Bloom is highly applauded as one of Australia's greatest power vocalists and has already garnered International acclaim for her effortless soulful vocal resonance of power vocalists Adele and Amy Winehouse.
Friday November 5, 11am
MECC Plenary Halls
$15 Admission
$13.50 Friend/MECC/MAP Member
John Williamson Winding Back - Celebrating 51 Years
Australian icon John Williamson will celebrate his 51st anniversary in the music industry in 2021.
Like a dust-covered road train traversing this country, his songs capture the beauty of the landscape and its people and, sometimes, the heartbreak of life Down Under, deftly moving between larrikin humour and touching pathos.
Don't miss the opportunity to see him live on his "Winding Back" tour.
Platters available for this event
Friday November 5 2021, 7.30pm
MECC Auditorium
$64 Adult | $62 Friend/MECC Card
$59 Pensioner | $35 Child U14
Darren Coggan - Home for Christmas
Time to 'deck the shed with bits of wattle' and join award-winning performer Darren Coggan as he celebrates the joy of being Home For Christmas, through a collection of songs and stories that embrace the festive spirit of Christmas in Australia.
Darren Coggan is one of Australia's most exciting and diverse artists, a masterful storyteller with a knack of weaving fascinating and perceptive tales through his songs.
From humble beginnings, strumming a guitar by 'the 'Bidgee' river in his beloved hometown of Wagga Wagga, to selling out The Sydney Opera House Concert Hall with Peace Train: The Cat Stevens Story, Darren has forged a unique, diverse career that has seen him embrace the Australian Country Music, Musical Theatre and Television industries with aplomb.
Friday December 10 2021, 11am
MECC Plenary Halls
$15 Admission
$13.50 Friend/MECC/MAP Member
Subscriber benefits:
How to activate your free Courier-Mail subscription
Your dose of Harry Bruce cartoons
Five ways to get more from your digital subscription
WATCH: Your guide to reading the Daily Mercury online
Your questions about the new Daily Mercury format answered
How to make the most of your Mercury subscription
Daily puzzles and Sudoku another reason to stay subscribed
We're still here: How to contact your journalists
Share your story and photos with us: Daily Mercury
Correction: An earlier version of this story incorrectly associated Bluey with Disney.
Why cattle killer shot two pregnant cows
A father of four splitting his time between the mines and his own farm faced court for shooting and killing two cattle. See what tipped him over the edge.
Mum turned ‘blind eye’ to illegal romance involving 15yo child
He lavished her with gifts, told her he loved and wanted to marry her and was even paying off a ring. But she was an underage teen and he was twice her age. Now he’s a convicted child sex offender.