Qtopia Sydney has launched their newest exhibition, along with a ‘Live at The Bandstand’ program at The Bandstand in Darlinghurst.
This is the second in a series of exhibitions that will culminate in the opening of Qtopia Sydney’s permanent home at the old Darlinghurst Police Station in February 2024.
Qtopia Sydney Curator Dr Liz Bradshaw is keen to share the breadth and depth of stories compiled over decades, as the Queer community has forged a path to identity.
“Qtopia Sydney will be an incredible resource for celebration, education, engagement, commemoration and celebration of all aspects of the community and the experiences we have all had.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to come back and showcase more Queer history and culture through various mediums,” said Dr Bradshaw.
During Qtopia Sydney’s first round of exhibitions, Dr Bradshaw was responsible for the curation of the Ward 17 South inaugural exhibition space at Building 11 in National Art School – an immensely popular attraction during Sydney WorldPride 2023.
“I’m excited to share my vision for this new space, especially as the Ward 17 South exhibition was received so positively. It’s a great space to showcase the history and culture of the Queer community,” she concluded.
To support this new stage of storytelling, Qtopia Sydney have introduced ‘Live at The Bandstand’ – a live activation space that celebrates the stories and voices of the Queer community.
The Bandstand will be transformed into an intimate theatre, for the purpose of live activations of a wide range of genres – comedy, cabaret, talks, book launches, Q&A’s, live podcast recordings, script readings, small theatre performances, short films, music and more.
CEO of Qtopia Sydney Greg Fisher says that he hopes this new program will invite both new and recognised Queer voices and artists to share their mediums with the wider community.
“This is a great opportunity for more Queer artistry to be heard, seen and experienced. At The Bandstand, you will get the whole package – exhibition by day, intimate theatre experience by night.
“The Bandstand building itself is a unique piece of heritage, so adding an extra element of theatre into the equation will give Qtopia Sydney its own niche trademark. It truly is an exciting addition to this space,” said Mr Fisher.
Launching on 24 May 2023, the program is set to be a hit with art lovers and those itching for something new.