So, we’re halfway through 2023 (if you can believe that) and, although the weather might be cooling down, there’s still plenty happening around Newcastle this month to keep you entertained.
From world-class local, national and international musical acts and great stand-up comedy, to nail-biting sporting action, sumptuous ballets, and inspiring art exhibitions, you’ll be spoiled for entertainment choices this month in Newcastle.
Don’t hibernate under a blanket this month, get out and about and experience everything Newcastle has to offer.
Here are five suggestions to get you started.
Melbourne International Comedy Fest Roadshow
Friday 9 & Saturday 10 June
Civic Theatre
Australia’s biggest and best comedy festival is hitting the road for a huge 25th year!
Featuring the best and brightest of the 2023 Melbourne International Comedy Festival, all of the funny is coming straight to you!
Get ready for a stellar line-up with Roadshow favourites alongside the most talked-about breakthrough stars of the moment, together in one jam-packed show that’s sure to leave the whole nation laughing.
Forest Song & Don Quixote
Sunday 18 June
Civic Theatre
From the trauma and heartbreak of war in their country, to the major cities of USA and Europe, and now to the stages of Australia. This is the Grand Kyiv Ballet of Ukraine.
The mesmerising show will feature two acts - the first presenting the legendary Ukranian ballet Forest Song - a tale of love and the fearless and brave Mavka, who longs for peace in her world, just as Ukraine longs for peace in her country today.
The second act will feature Don Quixote -the much-loved flamboyant and festive Spanish ballet that tells the story of a courageous but troubled man’s quest for love.
Unhinged History
Sat 17 June to Sat 24 June
Civic Playhouse
You think history is boring? Well, think again! The history of our world is absolutely UNHINGED! Each group of Hunter Drama students will take a look back into the past and create a short, 10-minute performance to be presented as part of Unhinged History!
Guided by their tutors, students will work with their classmates during term 2 and explore the world of play building. With a focus on ensemble work and building the fundamentals for performing in front of an audience, our students will bring history to life!
IGN Art Fair
Friday 30 June
Various Venues
IGN Art Fair returns to Newcastle this year! Held across 20 independent galleries located in and around the Newcastle CBD area, IGN Art Fair will feature the very best commercial art spaces and artist-run initiatives from across the region.
With an easy-to-navigate IGN Map, see the best of original local works of art at affordable prices with flash sales occurring over the weekend. Explore artist studios and exhibitions, attend Q&As with artists and directors, and lose yourself in Newcastle's thriving independent art scene.
Star Struck: Ignite
Fri 16 & Sat 17 June
Newcastle Entertainment Centre
In 2023 Star Struck will put on its 31st arena spectacular. The theme this year is Ignite and will showcase public education students from across Newcastle, The Hunter and Central Coast regions as they display performing arts talents in dance, drama, music and stage production.
Star Struck provides performance and learning opportunities for students in the arts and fosters an appreciation of the performing arts.
Students have the opportunity to participate as part of combined dance, drama or choir, with their school groups, or if successful at audition can participate as featured vocalists or instrumentalists. In addition to these on stage roles students also participate as members of the student stage management, choreographic and props design teams.