Penrith Performing & Visual Arts - The Joan, Penrith Regional Gallery, Q Theatre and Penrith Conservatorium - invites audiences to rediscover the arts with an exciting 2022 season.
Now, more than ever, is the time to look after our playful and inquisitive sides, whether we're seeing a show, making a show, having a drink and a laugh, reflecting on some art, learning something new, or heading out for a change of scenery and catching up with friends in the creative heart of Penrith.
The Joan is going beyond the art by developing a reimagined experience; a place to reconnect and relax, with more locally-focused, casual and regular events in the Borland Lounge; atmospheric evenings in the Salon, big laughs, shows that enchant, and performances that stir the soul. There are plenty of opportunities to explore the big ideas, the stories behind the art and music; and when possible, an option of Zooming in.
Open Fridays: Unwind under the fairy lights in the Borland Lounge after the working week with a quiet drink, great tapas and laid-back entertainment. Expect a new calendar of events every month - from March - with a few surprises.
Salon: From classical, jazz and world music with a twist, to new theatre, arthouse and cult film. Highlights include a celebration of the guitar with Andrew Blanch and Daniel Rojas, master pianist Simon Tedeschi playing Gershwin favourites, swinging jazz from the Andrew Dickeson Trio, an interactive Piano Adventure with Andrea Lam and the sweeping sounds of Canto Latino.
Comedy will include the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow, The Wharf Revue, home-grown entertainment and occasional mischief from touring comedians.
All kinds of music will feature, from big bands to cabaret, Morning Melodies, Penrith Symphony Orchestra concerts, touring artists and tribute shows.
Highlights include The Spooky Men's Chorale, The Mell-o-Tones, Melinda Schneider, Rockaria - The ELO Experience, Easter Oratorio, Remember the Days of Cat Stevens, Wayne Scott Kermond's Candy Man and Leaving Jackson - The Johnny Cash and June Carter Show.
Kids at The Joan will feature performing arts for families, schools, early childhood and vacation care groups with shows, stories, concerts, hands-on workshops and fun. The good kind of drama that adds colour to life.
Penrith Regional Gallery highlights include Pattern and Print: Easton Pearson Archive (January 22-April 17), a celebration of the internationally acclaimed Brisbane fashion house.
There is also a program of talks and ideas, provocation, humour, panel discussions, presentations and Q & A.
For tickets and details see thejoan.com.au and penrithregionalgallery.com.au.