What's On

Past Events

Saturday 25 March 2023

Fast Cars

Word on the street is Brocky-loving battlers, the Byrnes of Barb’s Burgers, are going bankrupt!

Sunday 21 January 2024 Bathurst Sea of Sound

Sunrise at Wahluu

We invite you to join us for a very special performance on top of Wahluu with the sounds of two Swiss Alphorns sending out a sea of sound to the town below. Joining them will be a choir of enthusiastic locals under the direction of well-known musicians Smith & Jones. Featuring new commissioned work and a choral arrangement of Dolly Parton’s The Light of a Clear Blue Morning, we welcome the sunrise for the final day of our festival.

Wednesday 14 February 2024

Love Notes

A Special Event for Valentine's Day

Sadly, we have been forced to cancel this event due to poor ticket sales. Ticket holders will be contacted by Box Office to arrange a refund.

Monday 19 - Wednesday 21 February 2024 Supercars presents

Fast Cars

by Kate Smith

The sold-out smash-hit of 2023 returns in 2024 as part of Superfest. Think Schitts Creek, Upper Middle Bogan and The Castle all rolled into one! A riotous romp about winners and losers; lovers and fighters and what happens when the will to win spins us out of control and away from the ones we love!

Friday 8 March 2024

The Vagina Monologues

A Special Event for International Women's Day

A play that has changed thousands of lives, with humour and grace The Vagina Monologues is a celebration of female strength and sexuality in all its complexity and mystery. Performed by local actors, this special event for International Women's Day will raise funds for Bathurst Women and Children’s Refuge.

Thursday 16 May 2024 BMEC and Lingua Franca present

Highway of
Lost Hearts

By Mary Anne Butler with original live music by Smith & Jones

A woman. A dog. A campervan. And 4,500km of wide-open road. After a celebrated season at BMEC in 2021, Lingua Franca's critically acclaimed production is hitting the road on a NSW wide tour. Back for one night only, join us as we send off Kate Smith and Smith & Jones to share this Bathurst-made production with audiences around the state. 

Saturday 3 August 2024 BMEC Local Stages presents

Songwriting Workshop

as part of the Regional Songwriting Contest 2024

Want to start writing your own songs but not sure where to start? Have a few ideas but struggling to get to the next point? Join songwriting experts and Central West musicians Abby Smith (Smith & Jones) and Kris Schubert (Safety of Life at Sea) for a free day long hands-on workshop that will get your creative juices flowing.

Sunday 18 August 2024 BMEC Local Stages presents

Demo & Pitching Workshop

as part of the Regional Songwriting Contest 2024

Unsure how to make a good pitch to a producer, a competition or other music industry people? Perhaps you want to make a demo but aren’t sure how to go about it? Join industry professionals, recording artists and producers Abby Smith and Kris Schubert for a free day long, hands-on workshop that will get you pitching like a pro!

Saturday 26 October 2024 BMEC presents

Performance Workshop

as part of the Regional Songwriting Contest 2024

So, you’ve got through to the finals of the Regional Songwriting Contest or perhaps have an upcoming gig and you need some help refining your performance? BMEC is committed to offering performers the opportunity to work with some of the region’s best artists on performance skills in this free workshop. Get some hot tips on connecting with your audience, learn microphone technique and how to ensure you are producing the best sound out of your instrument including your voice. Abby Smith and Sophie Jones (aka Smith & Jones) will be presenting this dynamic and hands on workshop.

Thursday 22 - Sunday 25 May 2025

Bathurst Writers’ & Readers’ Festival 2025

Bathurst Writers’ & Readers’ Festival, May 22 - 25, 2025 Bathurst Writers & Readers Festival returns for another year, in conjunction with Sydney Writers’ Festival. The Bathurst Writers’ & Readers’ Festival is an annual literary event presented by BMEC Local Stages program in collaboration with Bathurst Library, Arts OutWest and Books Plus, Bathurst. The Festival is bringing back all your favourites, including Opening Night event, focus panels, in-discussions, Sydney Writers Festival live streams and of course The Great Festival Read. (with plenty more good stuff in-between!)

Thursday 21 - Saturday 23 August 2025 A sensory journey into the imagination

ViV!

By Catherine McNamara, Produced by Arts OutWest - supported by BMEC Local Stages

ViV! - is a children's theatre show about an adventurous, tough and sassy girl who lives with disabilities and her little sister 'Lil'. Our heroine Viv takes the audience on a sensory journey, transporting us into her imagination. All shows with AUSLAN.

Saturday 11 October BMEC Local Stages supports

Ama & Nana

by Disapol Savetsila

Guests are welcome to come along to a free WORK IN PROGRESS SHOWING of a new BMEC Local Stages play, written by Disapol Savetsila.

Friday 14 November 2025

Free Dance Workshop – For The Saturday Night Social

Dance Makers Collective’s (DMC) The Saturday Night Social takes inspiration from dances gone by, such as the dance hall era of the 1960s and 1970s, with a contemporary twist. DMC are excited to share with you, regardless of your style, a variety of tools and tactics to infect the dancefloor with group choreography. Imagine a brand new Nutbush, a flash mob, a simple and elegant partner dance, an infectious groove and other highly social, super danceable routines you can learn with ease and share with others in real time. We’re offering a free workshop to learn the moves, the rules of the game, that we will spring on patrons at The Saturday Night Social. The workshop is suitable for anyone who loves to dance. Whether or not you have a partner, no matter what dance you practice, this workshop is for you!

Friday 6 February 2026

The Traveling Wilburys Collection

Presented by Carter Entertainment

There’s never been a group, let alone a supergroup, in rock history quite like it. Four years, two mega albums, a slew of hits and a Grammy. But the one thing they never did was tour. That is... until now... The Traveling Wilburys Collection bring together the collective talents, excitement, and magic that the original had to offer. Live. On stage. Like never before. Featuring all the hits of the Traveling Wilburys PLUS the classics from each individual artist – Harrison, The Beatles, Petty, The Heartbreakers, Lynne, ELO, Orbison, and Dylan.

Saturday 7 February 2026 BMEC Welcomes

Julie Goodwin
‘Your Time Starts Now’ Tour

Presented by One Management & Sure Thing Agency

Australia’s beloved home cook, media personality and best-selling author Julie Goodwin is hitting the road in 2026 with her first-ever national live tour.

Sunday 8 February 2026 BMEC On Screen

Bat Out Of Hell

The Musical

Get ready for the ultimate rock experience as BAT OUT OF HELL - The Musical, roars onto the big screen! The cast of the West End production bring Jim Steinman and Meat Loaf’s iconic anthems to life, in a spectacle that will leave you breathless!

Friday 20 February 2026 Presented by GSM

Best of the Bee Gees

'GREATEST' SHOW

The Best of the Bee Gees Show returns to BMEC to honour the 1979 “Greatest” album, with a set list of iconic disco, ballads and songs written by the Bee Gees for other legends. Featuring special guest, the BEE GEES niece, Debora McLane.

Thursday 26 - Saturday 28 February 2026 Brought to you by Scots All Saints College

Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

Creative Arts Department

The CAT Award-winning Scots All Saints College Creative Arts department proudly presents Charlie and the Chocolate Factory for four shows only at the BMEC Theatre. Step into the magic and wonder of Roald Dahl’s classic tale, as young Charlie Bucket discovers Willy Wonka’s extraordinary factory filled with chocolate waterfalls, quirky inventions and unforgettable characters.

Sunday 1 March 2026 BMEC On Screen

Hamlet

National Theatre Live

Olivier Award-winner Hiran Abeysekera (Life of Pi) is Hamlet in this fearless, contemporary take on Shakespeare’s famous tragedy. Trapped between duty and doubt, surrounded by power and privilege, young Prince Hamlet dares to ask the ultimate question – you know the one. National Theatre Deputy Artistic Director, Robert Hastie (Standing at the Sky’s Edge, Operation Mincemeat) directs this sharp, stylish and darkly funny reimagining.

Monday 2 March 2026 to Friday 6 March 2026 BMEC Local Stages Presents

Milltown

A free event celebrating NSW Seniors Week

Free event with complimentary tea and coffee, celebrating NSW Seniors Week. “Milltown” is a 13-minute, heartwarming film that captures local stories from the past. It was produced by Arts OutWest with Henry Simmons for Museums Bathurst. The 2025 film celebrates the people of the historic Milltown area of South Bathurst and their connection to place and past communities through the lens of the present. The interviews with past Milltown locals are woven with personal film footage and stories of Ben and Elizabeth Chifley to create a beautiful celebration of life along the railways.

Tuesday 3 March 2026

Luke Kidgell
Good Intentions

After touring the US, Canada, NZ & Europe, Luke is coming back home with his brand-new show. This is not one to miss! Luke is known for his viral crowd-work interactions that often lead to some fairly unusual, yet hilarious encounters. TIX ON SALE THURS 16 OCT 10AM.

Thursday 5 March 2026 Presented by Premier Artists

COSENTINO
TRICKED – An Evening Of Wonder

Step into the mysterious world of Australia’s greatest illusionist, Cosentino. Witness the impossible as the International Magician of the Year takes you on an unforgettable journey with his brand-new production. This isn’t just a magic show, it’s an immersive theatre experience, where the line between reality and fantasy are blurred.

Tuesday 10 March 2026 BMEC Welcomes

The Great British Songbook

A special event for the NSW seniors festival

The Great British Songbook is packed with classic hits from many of the biggest selling British bands of all time such as The Beatles, Queen, The Kinks, The Animals, Herman's Hermits, Gerry and the Pacemakers as well as unforgettable songs from some of the greatest singers from the British music scene: Tom Jones, Cliff Richard, Cilla Black, Engelbert Humperdinck, Dusty Springfield, Matt Monro and the very best British singer/songwriters including Elton John, Cat Stevens, Van Morrison, Bryan Ferry and Leo Sayer to name a few.

Friday 13 March 2026 BMEC Welcomes

Seventh Wonder

Performs Fleetwood Mac

Immerse yourself in the timeless melodies of Fleetwood Mac’s legendary album, “Rumours,” brought to life in its entirety by Seventh Wonder. Hailed as one of the world’s leading Fleetwood Mac shows.

Saturday 28 March 2026 BMEC Welcomes

Queen Forever
Greatest Hits Tour

Presented by The Harbour Agency

Celebrate 20 years of Queen Forever with their Greatest Hits Tour - 20th Anniversary! Recognised as the most entertaining Queen tribute in the world, this spectacular new show brings all the anthems, rare deep cuts, and the magic of Queen to life.

Sunday 29 March 2026 2026 Regional Tour

Human Nature
Motown 20th Anniversary

Presented by Private Idaho, HN Entertainment & The Harbour Agency

Human Nature are back on their tour bus, treating fans across regional Australia to an unforgettable live experience, filled with hits from all three of the group's chart-topping Motown albums and beyond. Expect a setlist packed with fan favourites like My Girl, Baby I Need Your Lovin', Easy and I'll Be There, alongside their own chart-toppers.

Wednesday 8 April 2026 BMEC Presents

A Little Bit Of Blue

Little Wing Puppets

A Little Bit of Blue is an interactive detective story, told with puppetry. As well as unraveling a mystery, it involves learning about the extraordinary habits of the Australian Satin Bowerbird, and their fascination for the colour blue.

Wednesday 8 April 2026 Little WIng Puppets Present

Puppetry Of Paper Workshop

Supported by BMEC Local Stages

How many things can you do with a piece of paper? This workshop is based on Bunraku-style puppetry, a traditional Japanese form of theatre which involves multiple puppeteers working closely together to operate one puppet. Workshop participants will start by making a unique puppet out of paper.

Wednesday 8 April BMEC Local Stages & Taikoz Present

PLAY TAIKO! AFTERNOON WORKSHOP

Afternoon workshop for school students aged 13-18

Taikoz presents PLAY TAIKO!, an exhilarating hands-on workshop where you’ll discover the power and joy of Japanese drumming. Presented by members of the Taikoz ensemble, this 90-minute session introduces you to the awe-inspiring taiko drum in an active, creative and fun way. This afternoon workshop is for school students aged 13-18.

Wednesday 8 April 2026 BMEC Local Stages & Taikoz Present

PLAY TAIKO! EVENING WORKSHOP

Evening Workshop: open to the general community

Taikoz presents PLAY TAIKO!, an exhilarating hands-on workshop where you’ll discover the power and joy of Japanese drumming. Presented by members of the Taikoz ensemble, this 90-minute session introduces you to the awe-inspiring taiko drum in an active, creative and fun way. Evening Workshop: open to the general community.

Thursday 9 April 2026 BMEC Presents

Taikoz – Catharsis

Experience the Power of CATHARSIS – Taikoz’s electrifying new work. Renowned for redefining contemporary taiko drumming, Taikoz returns with CATHARSIS – an explosive celebration of rhythm, movement, and emotion that showcases the ensemble at their exhilarating best. Featuring the heart-pounding compositions of Taikoz Artistic Director Ian Cleworth and the ethereal electronic soundscapes of Danish artist Xuri, CATHARSIS fuses tradition and innovation in a breathtaking display of artistry.

Saturday 11 April 2026 Presented by The Harbour Agency

Damien Leith & Jason Owen – Classic Favourites

If you grew up with the music of The Righteous Brothers, Roy Orbison, Elvis Presley, Neil Diamond, and Simon & Garfunkel… this show is made for you. These are the songs that stay with you - tied to memories, moments, and a lifetime of emotion. From soaring ballads to feel-good singalongs, it’s music that sounds just as powerful today as it ever did. Damien Leith (Australian Idol) and Jason Owen (X Factor) can’t wait to bring these timeless classics to life on stage. No gimmicks - just incredible songs, performed with heart and authenticity.

Wednesday 15 April 2026 BMEC Presents

Mr Snotbottom

He’s the Prince of Putrid, The Willy Wonka of Weird - he’s Mr Snotbottom! A hilariously deeeesgusting kids comedian brimming with all the oooey, gooey, yucky things kids love! Like a cross between Shrek and Mr Bean, you can expect snot-loads of gross-tastic gags, slimy songs and just wrong routines perfect for weird kids 5 and up and their even weirder parents! Mr Snotbottom will transport families on a roller-coaster of ridiculousness where they can howl, groan and roar with delight together!

Wednesday 15 April 2026 BMEC Presents

Mr Snotbottom – Little Comedians Workshop (free)

For Mr Snotbottom ticket holders only. In this 60 minute workshop with Mark Trenwith (Mr Snotbottom), kids get to invent their very own comedy characters and learn top secret comedy skills used by the pros! Kids discover what makes a joke funny, what makes a joke not funny, performance techniques, improvisational skills and of course have lots of hilarious fun with veteran kids comedian Mr Snotbottom himself!

10am, Thursday, 16 April APRA AMCOS Presents

FREE 2-day songwriting workshop

Supported by BMEC Local Stages

Are you aged 16-21 and want to develop your music career? Then this 2-day songwriting and production workshop is for you! Featuring Industry Mentors Hylander, Asti Holz, and Audius, you will work with them over two days to write and record a song from scratch in a real-world co-writing session. This workshop will connect you with industry mentors and other local creatives. You will build new skills and find out more about pathways into the music industry.

Saturday 18 April 2026

Creedence Clearwater Collective

Presented by Carter Entertainment

We invite you to join us for a night celebrating the music of Creedence Clearwater Revival and John Fogerty, as we present the music of one of the world’s most iconic bands – from the songs they wrote, to the songs covered, to the songs they wrote for others

Sunday 19 April 2026 BMEC On Screen

John Cleese Packs It In

1 85-year-old Man, 5 Countries, 16 Cities, 23 shows, 6 weeks. Will he make it home … or is this the end of the road? One of the most recognisable figures in British comedy, John Cleese’s career spans six decades - from his early days with the Cambridge Footlights to co-founding Monty Python, co-creating Fawlty Towers, and writing and starring in the Oscar-nominated “A Fish Called Wanda”. His unique brand of black humour has made him a global icon and intergalactic treasure.

Thursday 23 April 2026 Alist.com Presents

Ross Noble – Cranium of Curiosities

The one and only Ross Noble is back! He is the Wizard of Waffle, The Rambler Royale, The Noodlers’ Noodler, and he’s back live on stage to tour a tornado of tangents. What the show will be about is anybody’s guess, but that’s all part of the fun when you look inside his Cranium of Curiosities.

Saturday 25 April 2026 Base Entertainment Presents

Ballroom Blitz

Created by Dancing with the Stars champion Aric Yegudkin, this dazzling show fuses classic ballroom with fresh, cutting-edge choreography and live music. Shimmering costumes, breathtaking lifts and irresistible storytelling ignite the stage. Ballroom Blitz is bold, beautiful and unforgettable — ballroom, unleashed.

Saturday 2 May 2026 Brought to you by the Blue Mountains Musical Society

Godspell

All profits going towards the Central Tablelands and Blue Mountains Community Legal Centre

Before Wicked, Stephen Schwartz burst onto the music theatre scene with Godspell, introducing his ability to discover new meaning in established narratives. Equal parts playful and profound, Godspell is a theatrical celebration that reminds us what truly matters, and in 2026 BMMS is staging a special charity production of the timeless hit.

Thursday 7 - Saturday 9 May 2026 BMEC Local Stages Presents

Murder Horse

It’s Sweeney Todd meets Succession in this dark, campy musical romp, that rips the lid off our national obsession with gambling. Saddle up for a gloriously unhinged ride as we pull the tail of our rich elites, and splash around in our swampiest vice, all set to a galloping musical score. Murder Horse follows feckless rich boy Des, who, in a desperate bid to save the family gaming empire, stumbles upon a bizarre racehorse - one that actually starts winning him races. Des revels in his fortune…until he discovers the truth: this horse is killing anyone who stands in its way.

Sunday 10 May 2026 BMEC Presents

Australian Haydn Ensemble – Beethovens Fourth

Beethoven, Mozart & Boccherini

AHE continues its exploration of historical chamber arrangements with William Watt’s arrangement of Beethoven’s Fourth Symphony and Cimador’s adaptation of Mozart’s Haffner.

Mondays from 11 May until Monday 22 June BMEC Local Stages Presents

Adult Acting Classes

Join acclaimed screen actor Damian DeMontemas for an exclusive six-week acting for adults’ class at BMEC. Suitable for both emerging and experienced performers, this course will hone your skills across voice work, text analysis, and powerful monologues and duologues.

Friday 15 May 2026 Brought to you by Mitchell Conservatorium and Festivals Australia

Big Band Blast Opening Night Concert

feat. CONnection Big Band and Mosaic Jazz Collective

Get ready for another unforgettable weekend as the Big Band Blast Festival swings back into Bathurst! Experience the energy, talent, and rhythm of Australia’s finest young musicians in a celebration of big band music like no other.

Saturday 16 May 2026 Brought to you by Mitchell Conservatorium and Festivals Australia

Big Band Blast Gala Concert

feat. The Sydney Conservatorium Jazz Orchestra with the Big Band Blast artists

Get ready for another unforgettable weekend as the Big Band Blast Festival swings back into Bathurst! Experience the energy, talent, and rhythm of Australia’s finest young musicians in a celebration of big band music like no other.

Sunday 17 May 2026 Brought to you by Mitchell Conservatorium and Festivals Australia

Big Band Blast Bandemonium

Student Showcase

Get ready for another unforgettable weekend as the Big Band Blast Festival swings back into Bathurst! Experience the energy, talent, and rhythm of Australia’s finest young musicians in a celebration of big band music like no other.

Tuesday, 19 May BMEC Local Stages Presents

Bathurst Writers’ and Readers’ Festival 2026

Building on the success of the past 10 years, the Bathurst Writers & Readers Festival returns in 2026 with an expanded and vibrant celebration of storytelling, creativity and the diverse voices of our region. Over several inspiring days, audiences can immerse themselves in author talks, panel discussions, community connection and thoughtful conversations that champion both established Australian writers and the next generation of emerging local talent. Join us as we celebrate a decade of storytelling and the enduring power of words in the heart of Bathurst.

19 May Bathurst Writers' and Readers' Festival Presents

Bx Poetry Slam

Calling all poets, storytellers, and wordsmiths: if you have a passion to share your words with an audience, the Bx Poetry Slam is for you! The Bx Poetry Slam is presented by BMEC and Bathurst Poets' Society as part of the Bathurst Writers' and Readers' Festival. All ages are welcome to participate and attend.

Wednesday 20 May 2026

Watercolour Illustration Workshop with Sami Bayly

Sami Bayly is an award-winning children’s author and illustrator who loves all things weird and wonderful and enjoys painting realistic flora and fauna with watercolours. Join Sami for this fun water-colour workshop as part of the Bathurst Writers and Readers Festival 2026. For ages 16+.

Wednesday 20 May 2026 BMEC Presents

Lose To Win

A Belvoir St Theatre Production

“In this country, you think it’s your right to have three meals a day. Me, where I came from? I think it’s a miracle.” From South Sudan to Egypt to our stage, this is the extraordinary journey of Mandela Mathia. Fleeing his war-torn home as a child, Mandela spent many years journeying, searching, and eventually finding his way to our stage. This is a joyful, poignant solo show, straight from the man who lived it.

Thursday 21 May 2026

THE FUTURE OF DEMOCRACY: FIGHTING AUTHORITARIANISM WITH A.C. GRAYLING

Sydney Writers Festival - Live & Local Event

Festival favourite philosopher on why democracy is something we can’t lose. The Future of Democracy series, hosted by Nick Bryant and Rosalind Dixon, is a collaboration between Sydney Writers’ Festival and the Resilient Democracy Lab at UNSW Sydney. Professor of Philosophy and author A.C. Grayling outlines the fragility of democracy and the freedoms we take for granted and risk losing in For The People: Fighting Authoritarianism, Saving Democracy.

Thursday 21 May 2026

YANN MARTEL: SON OF NOBODY

Sydney Writers Festival - Live & Local Event

The story of the Trojan War, like so many wars real and imagined, is a story most often told by the victors, the princes and the powerful. In this new imagining of the ancient legend, Son of Nobody, Yann Martel tells the familiar tale from an unheard perspective: that of a commoner and goatherd who becomes a soldier, Psoas, the son of nobody. Acclaimed for his Booker Prize–winning Life of Pi, adapted into an Oscar-winning film, Yann’s first novel in a decade sings a universal song about the power of story. Unravel ancient traditions with Yann, in conversation with ABC Radio National’s Claire Nichols (The Book Show).

Thursday 21 May 2026 Proudly sponsored by Bake, Table & Tea

STEPHANIE ALEXANDER: THE COOK’S COMPANION 30TH ANNIVERSARY

Sydney Writers Festival - Live & Local Event

On a mission to spread the joy of good food, Australia’s beloved chef Stephanie Alexander released The Cook’s Companion in 1996. Now, 30 years and half a million copies later, the book on everybody’s kitchen shelf is back in a fully updated edition with new recipes and expanded information. Offering invaluable insights, tips and tricks from an Australian food icon, The Cook’s Companion 30th Anniversary Edition is ready to inspire a new generation of cooks. Hear from Stephanie – the creative and authoritative food thinker behind the essential resource – in conversation with fellow chef Adam Liaw in this special event.

Thursday 21 May 2026

BRINGING THE PAST TO LIFE

Sydney Writers Festival - Live & Local Event

A favourite Festival event for historical fiction buffs returns with stories from near and far. Robbie Arnott’s Dusk, set in the mountains of Tasmania, and Tasma Walton’s I Am Nannertgarrook, based on a true story from Tasma’s family, were both awarded the ARA Historical Novel Prize for their brilliant stories from Australian history. While Booker Prize–winning writer Yann Martel’s first book in a decade, Son of Nobody, features the discovery of a new perspective from the Trojan War. Sink into these stories of the past with Robbie, Tasma and Yann, in conversation with ABC Radio National’s Kate Evans.

Thursday 21 May 2026

DAVID SZALAY: FLESH

Sydney Writers Festival - Live & Local Event

2025 Booker Prize winner on the complexity of identity. In a novel, the words on the page are our entrance into another’s mind. But sometimes it’s the space between the lines that define a character. In David Szalay’s 2025 Booker Prize–winning Flesh, István is caught between the boundaries of Hungary and England, his teenage years and adulthood, his body and sense of self and desire and indifference. With spare, propulsive prose, David paints an intimate portrait of a man slowly unravelling as he asks profound questions about the strangeness of being. Hear David trace the evolution of his singular novel and its protagonist, in conversation with Michelle de Kretser.

22 May 2026 CDP Kids & Salspot presents

Spot

Based on the books by Eric Hill

Eric Hill’s beloved puppy comes to life on stage in a show that’s fun for the whole family, with puppetry, songs, and puzzles for children aged 18 months and up. Perfect for Preschool, Early Stage 1 and Stage 1 audiences, this production supports literacy and creative syllabus requirements and is closely aligned with Outcomes 3, 4 and 5 of the EYLF.

Friday 22 May 2026

BIG HISTORIES

A Sydney Writers Festival - Live & Local Event

For author Amitav Ghosh and researcher Luke Kemp, navigating the present means understanding the past. In two books, The Nutmeg’s Curse: Parables for a Planet in Crisis and Wild Fictions, Amitav considers human history through our relationship with the environment, while Luke retells the collapse of empires to find solutions for our current existential crises in Goliath’s Curse: The History and Future of Societal Collapse.  

Friday 22 May 2026

Susan Choi: Flashlight

The new novel from Susan Choi, multi-award-winning writer including the National Book Award and a Lambda Literary Award, is a sweeping, international family drama that was shortlisted for the 2025 Booker Prize. Flashlight, described by The Guardian as a return to the great American novel of the 20th century, beguiled readers for its examination of absence and silence in a small family rocked by the assumed death of Louisa’s father.

Friday 22 May 2026

Trent Dalton: Gravity Let Me Go

A Sydney Writers Festival - Live & Local Event

Join multi-award-winning writer Trent Dalton to discuss his latest novel, Gravity Let Me Go, and its themes of love, family, ambition and deception. In conversation with Cassie McCullagh.

Friday 22 May 2026

Great Adaptations

A Sydney Writers Festival - Live & Local Event

Get behind-the-scenes insight into adapting stories from page to screen with writers Mick Herron (Slow Horses) and Suzie Miller (Prima Facie) in conversation with Benjamin Law.

Friday 22 May 2026 Bathurst Writers' and Readers' Festival Presents

Jack Toohey: Better Things are Possible

Opening Night

Opening Night of the Bathurst Writers' and Readers' Festival. Better Things Are Possible is Jack Toohey's case for choosing hope over apathy. It's a rallying cry to replace defeatism with resilience. Join Jack Toohey in conversation with Jac Underwood about how we start channeling our energy into innovative solutions to the challenges we’re facing.

Friday 22 May 2026

Memorial Days: All About Women

All About Women Festival 2025, Sydney Opera House

Pulitzer Prize–winning author Geraldine Brooks reflects on grief and renewal after the sudden death of her husband, journalist Tony Horwitz. Her memoir Memorial Days explores love, loss and survival through writing. “I pretended to be normal… I needed to use writing as my therapy.” In this one-hour screening, Geraldine Brooks is joined by Jennifer Byrne. Recorded live from All About Women Festival 2025, Sydney Opera House. Closed Captioned and Auslan

Friday 22 May 2026

State Of The Art: The Booker Prize

A Sydney Writers Festival - Live & Local Event

Hear Booker Prize–winning and –shortlisted writers read from their works and reflect on their journey to recognition. With Susan Choi, Roddy Doyle, Yann Martel, David Szalay, Charlotte Wood and host ABC Radio National’s Kate Evans.

Saturday 23 May 2026

Amitav Ghosh – In Conversation

A Sydney Writers Festival - Live & Local Event

Join acclaimed writer Amitav Ghosh to explore the themes of history, post-colonialism and environmentalism behind his rich body of work, including his new novel Ghost-Eye. In conversation with Michael Williams.

Saturday 23 May 2026 Bathurst Writers' and Readers' Festival Presents

Great Books You Might Have Missed

The GBYMHM session has been a local feature of the Festival for many years. Join Jen Barry (one of the founders of the Festival) and Lisa Holloway (bookseller at BooksPlus) as they chat about some of the lesser known, yet great books, that were highlights in their reading year. Whilst many other terrific books didn’t make their way into their reading piles, Jen and Lisa hope some of these, if not already familiar to you, might interest you enough to crack their spines.

Saturday 23 May 2026 Bathurst Writers' and Readers' Festival Presents

HIGH ANXIETY: WRITING IN THE AGE OF UNCERTAINTY

WITH KIM KELLY, DONNA CAMERON, SONYA VOUMARD

We are living in anxious times. Many of us worry about the state of the world, the climate, the future for ourselves and those we love, our health in body and mind. And while anxiety can take many forms, all of us often feel helpless and alone with our concerns. But creative expression can be a powerful outlet for turning those fears and challenges into meaningful action. In this panel session, three Australian writers – climate fiction novelist, Donna Cameron, acclaimed journalist Sonya Voumard and local author Kim Kelly – discuss how they have pinned their anxiety to the page – not only to save their own sanity, but to do whatever they can to save world.

Saturday 23 May 2026 Bathurst Writers' and Readers' Festival Presents

Standing Tall with Bob Brown

Join us for this special event featuring Bob Brown, Australian Environmentalist and former Leader of the Australian Greens, and once resident of Trunkey Creek. Bob will join Jen Barry on the BMEC stage to talk about his book, Defiance. Drawing on his experiences celebrating and defending nature, Bob shares stories to galvanise, uplift and inspire. This event will also commence with a screening of Bob's film The Giants, and conclude with a book signing in the BMEC Foyer.

Saturday 23 May 2026

FANTASTICAL WORLDS

A Sydney Writers Festival - Live & Local Event

Hear international bestselling writers Lev Grossman, R.F. Kuang and Garth Nix discuss their careers, their enthusiasm for fantasy and the genre’s dedicated readers. With host Carody Culver.

Saturday 23 May 2026 Bathurst Writers' and Readers' Festival Presents

Walumarra Ngurambang (Protect Country)

Elders and Knowledge Holders from the Wiradyuri Traditional Owners Central West Aboriginal Corporation invite audiences to listen, reflect and learn about Wiradyuri connections to land, water, culture and community, and the responsibilities that come with caring for Country across generations. Through story, insight and conversation, this talk offers an opportunity to better understand Country as a living, relational presence, and what caring for it means today.

Saturday 23 May 2026

Roddy Doyle – In Conversation

A Sydney Writers Festival - Live & Local Event

Dubbed the “undisputed laureate of ordinary lives” by The Sunday Times, Irish Booker Prize winner Roddy Doyle has kept us laughing and crying in equal measure.  From his prize-winning Paddy Clarke Ha Ha Ha to The Commitments, which was adapted into a BAFTA-winning screenplay, Roddy’s customary humour and dialogue capture beautiful relationships between lifelike characters, making him a literary icon.  

Sunday 24 May 2026

The Future Of Truth

A Sydney Writers Festival - Live & Local Event

Join international correspondent Barbara Demick, philosopher A.C. Grayling, Wikipedia founder Jimmy Wales and AI researcher Toby Walsh as they share their perspectives on the value of truth today. With ABC Radio National’s Natasha Mitchell.

Sunday 24 May 2026 Bathurst Writers' and Readers' Festival Presents

POETRY AND ART WORKSHOP

WITH GABRIELLE JOURNEY JONES

Ekphrasis: Writing About Art Workshop facilitated by Gabrielle Journey Jones, author of four poetry collections with Ginninderra Press. Join us for two engaging hours using a range of poetic techniques to write poetry about the current art exhibition at Bathurst Regional Art Gallery.

Sunday 24 May 2026

Power Up With Dav Pilkey

A Sydney Writers Festival - Live & Local Event

See Dav Pilkey (Captain Underpants, Dog Man) draw his beloved characters live and hear his inspiring life story. Prepare yourself for some hilarious onstage antics! Rec. ages 6+

Sunday 24 May 2026

ANTOINETTE LATTOUF: WOMEN WHO WIN

Reflect on powerful examples of feminist victories throughout history with journalist and human rights advocate Antoinette Lattouf in her latest book Women Who Win. In conversation with Jo Dyer.

Sunday 24 May 2026 Bathurst Writers' and Readers' Festival Presents

ROMANTASY: LILY CROZIER IN CONVERSATION

Enter a darkly enchanting world of cursed royalty and dangerous devotion as debut romantasy author Lily Crozier discusses her standalone novel , Vow of Eternal Night. Featuring a brooding vampire prince and the captive bride determined to break his curse — no matter the cost — this spellbinding novel reimagines a beloved fairytale with high-stakes romance, gothic atmosphere and irresistible tension. In conversation with Megan White, Lily will explore the inspiration behind her reworking of a classic tale, the allure of cursed heroes and vampire lore, and the craft of balancing shadow, longing and slow-burn romance. Perfect for readers who love gothic settings, morally complex characters and romance with bite.

Sunday 24 May 2026

Mick Herron In Conversation

In the latest instalment of Mick Herron’s internationally bestselling series, palms are itching among Jackson Lamb’s cohort of misfit spies.  A legendary former spy’s missing book, a state secret and some mischievous blackmail: which underhanded action will rock the carefully calibrated boat of Slough House? An instant Sunday Times bestseller and continuation of the adapted Apple TV+ series Slow Horses, Clown Town is a spy thriller with a witty twist and an unforgettable band of characters.   

Friday 29 May 2026 BMEC Welcomes

Nurse Georgie Carroll – Infectious

As seen on Britain’s Got Talent, winner of ‘Best Comedy Show' at the Adelaide Fringe Festival and following a sold-out UK, New Zealand, and Australian tour in 2024, don’t miss Nurse Georgie Carroll this March!

Sunday 31 May 2026 BMEC On-Screen

Othello

National Theatre Live

Directed by Tony Award-winner Tom Morris OBE (War Horse, Dr Semmelweis, The Grinning Man) with music by PJ Harvey, Othello is an epic story of manipulation, jealousy and toxic masculinity, exploring the darker side of power, rage and desire. Filmed live at the Theatre Royal Haymarket in London especially for the big screen.

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