Compiled by Allan Sko
BMA has lovingly gathered together some of the best and brightest music happenings the fair city of Canberra (and surrounds) has to offer.
Read on below, and get on out!
WHO: Thelma Plum, Jem Cassar-Daley, Dan Sultan, Briggs, Jeremy Whiskey and many more
WHAT: Enlighten: Up Late @ NGA
WHEN: 1 – 11 March
WHERE: National Gallery of Australia
The NGA has gone BIG for this year’s Enlighten, putting on a string of FREE nights from 5pm–9pm filled with art, live music, and kids & family activities. After seeing Thelma Plum (Fri 1 Mar), Jem Cassar-Daley (Sat 2 Mar), Dan Sultan (Fri 8 Mar) and Briggs (Sat 9 Mar), head out and experience the incredible Enlighten illuminations, including Vincent Namatjira: Indigenous All Stars projection on the Gallery façade from 8pm.
For the full program: nga.gov.au/events/enlighten-up-late/
WHO: Marcel Cole
WHAT: Ukulele Man
WHEN: Sat, 2 March
WHERE: Tuggeranong Arts Centre
Marcel Cole brings to life the story of Northern English actor, singer-songwriter, comedian, and ukulele legend George Formby in his brand-new award-winning cabaret, The Ukulele Man, showing at Tuggeranong Arts Centre on Saturday 2 March. Don’t miss this, “hugely enjoyable, brilliantly executed cabaret experience.” City News. Limited tickets left via the venue!
WHO: Indighost
WHAT: Flow State EP Launch
WHEN: 6th April
WHERE: Smith’s Alternative
Revered Canberra rapper Indighost returns to the stage to launch his new EP – Flow State. The 5 track EP is the anticipated follow up to his 2019 LP, Illumination, and features a slew of talented collaborators (who may just make an appearance on the night). Indighost has been refining his craft for over a decade and steps into 2024 rejuvenated and sounding sharper than ever. Known for his potent delivery atop diverse, banging production, his live shows never miss.
On support will be stylish Melbourne crooner Jimmy Harwood for his first ever Canberra performance, a DJ set from Canberra ex-pat/ producer Dom Cork, and the return of Maleezy. Hip-hop of the highest calibre at Smith’s. Grab your tix via Smith’s Alternative.
WHO: Hoodoo Gurus x Canberra Symphony Orchestra
WHAT: Symphony In The Park
WHEN: Sun, 10 Mar
WHERE: Stage 88
“We’re thrilled to be doing Symphony in the Park. It’s going to be extraordinary. The last time we performed in Canberra was 2017 and we can’t wait to get back.” So says Dave Faulkner, founder and songwriter of Hoodoo Gurus who will be joining in the Enlighten festivities by teaming up with the Canberra Symphony Orchestra for special renditions of hits from their 40+ year career. Can you imagine What’s My Scene, Bittersweet and I Want You Back with orchestral accompaniment? Soon, you won’t have to. Free event! 6:30pm – 9:30pm. For more info head to the Enlighten website.
WHO: Peter Garrett and The Alter Egos
WHAT: The True North Tour
WHEN: Tues, 14 March
WHERE: Canberra Theatre
Legendary Midnight Oil frontman, Peter Garrett and his band The Alter Egos (featuring the Oils’ Martin Rotsey on guitar and Heather Shannon from The Jezabels on keys) are hitting the road to tout the 15 March release of Peter’s new album, The True North.
Peter will showcase new works alongside some Oil’s classics and is joined on the night by special guest, Olympia. Tickets are on sale now for $89.95 + bf via Canberra Ticketing.
CHURCH Presents Nai Palm + Friends @ THE NFSA – Sun, 10 Mar
Three-time Grammy-nominated artist Nai Palm (Hiatus Kaiyote) brings her soaring vocals and signature style to the NFSA Courtyard for this special, intimate performance. Enjoy an autumn afternoon in the company of Nai Palm and Friends, with local brews on offer at the Church café and bar. Tickets via NFSA.
PROGRAM
4pm: Key (Lucky)
4.45pm: SAMATAR
5.30pm: GLO
6.15pm: Nai Palm
