The Glasshouse Theatre will transform into the dazzling and decadent world of 1920s New York when Cirque Empire roars into Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) from 5 to 14 February 2027, making its Brisbane debut as part of the production's world premiere season.
Bringing together an international cast of elite circus performers, acrobats and aerial artists, Cirque Empire is a lavish new circus spectacle from entertainment visionaries Tim Lawson and Simon Painter, the producers behind international sensation The Illusionists and Now You See Me Live.
Executive Producer Tim Lawson said he was delighted to return to QPAC following the success of Cirque Alice and Now You See Me Live.
"We are thrilled to bring Cirque Empire to the beautiful new Glasshouse Theatre and introduce Brisbane audiences to this extraordinary new production," said Mr Lawson.
“Whether you’re planning a romantic date night or a glamorous night out with friends, Cirque Empire is the perfect excuse to dress up, indulge and escape the everyday."
"We had such fun and success with Cirque Alice last year at QPAC, so we are very excited to be back in Brisbane for this inaugural season."
The production boasts an extraordinary line-up of international circus talent, including Duo Paradise performing a breathtaking pas de deux; The Reyes Brothers with their gravity-defying juggling act; aerial straps sensation Viktoriia Bubnova; hand-balancing extraordinaire Valentin Chetverkin; the high-flying Zapata Brothers on teeterboard; and Duo Sirca Marea showcasing a spectacular aerial cradle performance.
Adding further star power to the creative team is chorography by award-winning Australian creative director and performer, Kelley Abbey, whose career has spanned some of the biggest stages and screens in the world including television series, So You Think You Can Dance in Australia and the United States and the Academy Award, Golden Globe and BAFTA-winning film Happy Feet.
Creative Producer Simon Painter said the production featured some of the very best contemporary circus talent from around the globe.
"We've brought together some of the finest circus artists performing anywhere in the world," Mr Painter said.
"From extraordinary aerialists and acrobats to world-class comedy and dance talent, this cast represents the very best in contemporary circus.
"Cirque Empire captures the excitement, glamour and larger-than-life spirit of the decade of decadence, combining incredible human skill with a theatrical spectacle unlike anything else on stage today."
For those seeking an even more immersive experience, Cirque Empire will also offer a unique VIP on-stage seating option, placing guests at the heart of the action.
Tim Lawson and Simon Painter have created, produced and presented first class entertainment to more than 450 cities in 45 countries, smashing box office records on Broadway, London, Vegas and beyond.
Cirque Empire marks the company’s ninth circus production together, many of which, including Le Noir and Cirque Alice (both seen at QPAC ) and Circus 1903, have enjoyed great international success with multiple sell out seasons in London, New York and Vegas.
Tickets are on sale now via qpac.com.au.
More from the Newsroom
-
Bangarra Unites Elders and Choreographers in a powerful new program GENERATIONS: Touring Nationally in 2027
Wed 4 Nov 2026Grounded in wisdom of the past, and charged by voices of the future, GENERATIONS is a bold new double bill curated by Mirning woman Frances Rings, Bangarra’s Artistic Director and co-CEO. The new work brings together First Nations cultural leaders with acclaimed contemporary artists in a unique dance theatre experience.
-
Finding Nemo musical splashes into QPAC for Australian premiere
Wed 4 Nov 2026Brisbane audiences will be the first in Australia to dive into the QPAC and CDP’s production of Disney and Pixar's Finding Nemo: A 60-Minute Family Musical when the beloved tale takes centre stage next June.
-
Christmas in the Lane: QPAC and Fish Lane set to light up this festive season
Thu 29 Oct 2026This December, QPAC and Fish Lane will join forces to spread some festive cheer through South Brisbane with a Christmas activation featuring live carol performances from the QPAC Chamber Choir.
-
Icelandic composer Ólafur Arnalds returns to QPAC with immersive new concert experience
Tue 27 Oct 2026Icelandic composer, producer and multi-instrumentalist Ólafur Arnalds will bring his immersive new concert experience Falling Apart Together to QPAC Concert Hall on Tuesday 2 March 2027.
-
On the Banks 2026 Bernard FanningKelsey Doyle On the Banks is back in 2027!
Thu 15 Oct 2026Following a triumphant debut this year, QPAC and South Bank Corporation have revealed more acts for the return of On the Banks, bringing contemporary music to the riverside in February and March 2027.
-
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button heads to Australia and New Zealand for the first time in 2027
Mon 12 Oct 2026For the first time outside of London and New York, three-time Olivier Award-winning musical, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, will begin its next chapter, with a major tour of New Zealand and Australia from May finishing at Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) in October 2027.
-
Once Beloved Irish musical Once set to charm audiences in Brisbane debut
Fri 9 Oct 2026A new revival of the eight-time Tony Award-winning musical, Once, will make its Brisbane debut in the Cremorne Theatre from 2 January 2027
-
Bluey’s Big Play The Stage Show Wackadoo! Bluey, Bingo, Chilli, Bandit and friends are coming to QPAC in 2027!
Fri 9 Oct 2026Get ready for giggles, games and a whole lot of Heeler fun! Bluey’s Big Play The Stage Show brings Australia’s favourite family to life in a performance packed with music, imagination and big heart.