Darling Downs

The Darling Downs is the state’s richest and most fertile country. But it is fast gaining a reputation as a fertile ground of another kind… for the performing arts.

Just like the pioneers of the past who settled the Downs, our performing arts are breaking new ground. You’ll find a surprising diversity of performances on offer, from iconic Australian shows to international touring acts performing on stage just for you.

We want you to experience the rich mix of performing arts to be found right here. What’s more we want you to try them on the house.

Find out how to collect your complimentary Test Drive double pass and enjoy a great night out.

Make sure you check back regularly to see our latest Test Drive offers. If you’ve already taken a Test Drive why not suggest it to a friend?

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FAQ | Terms and conditions

Empire Theatre

Possum Magic - The Musical

Celebrating 25 Years of Magic! Possum Magic is the tender tale of baby possum Hush, made invisible by Grandma Poss in an effort to keep her safe from snakes.

Australian Army Band Brisbane

The serving musicians of the Australian Army Band Brisbane perform a selection of tunes from the classic serenades and jazz standards to army marches.

The Carpenters From Kempsey

Darren and Sharon Carpenter have hit the road singing all the songs that made those other Carpenters famous.

Bombshells

A hugely entertaining play which navigates the emotional terrain of six larger than life women who are each at a personal crossroad in their lives.

Toowoomba Tivoli

Enjoy the variety of performers from dancing girls to singers, comedians to musicians.

Flat on your Bacharach

Packed with personality, style and a wry twist of fun, this dynamic trio will take you on an intimate and magical journey through four decades of the Burt Bacharach songbook.

Toowoomba Tivoli with Simon Gallaher

Enjoy the variety of performers from dancing girls to singers, comedians to musicians.

Recent Test Drive Offers

All of the tickets to the offer below have been snapped up. Thank you to all our Test Drivers who are helping to make this program a success.

Stay tuned for more exciting Test Drive performing arts offers coming to this site soon.

The Magic Flute

Join us, one and all, as we follow the young Tamino on his random journey to love and enlightenment, in Mozart’s timeless masterpiece.

Wala

A high-energy and dynamic performance featuring drumming, dance, percussion and soaring vocal harmonies.

Carmen

Bizet’s powerful Spanish rhythms underscore the story of Carmen in this sensational production from Queensland Ballet.

Adam Harvey and Catherine Britt

Together for the first time in a special concert.

Shirley Valentine

A funny yet moving play by award winning playwright Willy Russell.

Cabaret

Welcome to Berlin's Kit Kat Klub in the 1930s.

by the light of the stars that are no longer... (Empire Theatre, Toowoomba)

Circa presents its latest full length work.

The Ten Sopranos (Empire Theatre, Toowoomba)

Ten stunning women with exquisite voices, set to steal your heart and soul.

Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks (Empire Theatre, Toowoomba)

A heart warming comedy with plenty of cha-cha, featuring two of Australia's best loved performers.

To make things easier there is a general ‘3 year’ rule of thumb which applies to Test Drive offers.

If the offer is from a participating performing arts company (eg Queensland Ballet), and you haven’t attended a performance by that company in the last 3 years you should be eligible.

If the offer is from a participating performing arts venue (eg QUT Gardens Theatre), and you haven’t attended a performance at that venue in the last 3 years you should be eligible.

The individual performance details will outline any specific eligibility criteria that apply.

Arts etiquette

A few tips for making the most of your night out.

Ballet myths busted

There is more to ballet than tutus, pointe shoes and classical music. Get the mythbusting facts.

Are you an opera virgin?

Never been to the opera? Read our guide to making your first time an amazing experience.

Classical music comes out

Open your ears and your mind to the classics, as classical music is coming out of the closet.

60 Second Feedback

If you have already been to a Test Drive performance please take a minute to give us your feedback.

Our online survey is quick and easy and you will be helping us to improve the Test Drive program.