Sondheim Melodies and Artisanal City Markets Today

Discover Brisbane's Cultural Highlights for Thursday, 12 March 2026

Today, Brisbane is buzzing with a diverse range of activities that cater to theatre enthusiasts, foodies, and art lovers alike. As the week reaches its peak, the city is hosting everything from world-class musical tributes to bustling local markets, offering plenty of ways to enjoy the mild March weather and vibrant local community.

Markets and Gourmet Treats

Start your day at the Brisbane City Markets, which bring their signature energy to Queen’s Wharf today. Running from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM, these markets are a must-visit for anyone looking for a mid-week pick-me-up. You can expect to find a wide array of fresh local produce, artisanal crafts, and seasonal flowers. For those working in the city, it is a prime destination for lunch, featuring some of Brisbane’s best street food vendors serving a variety of international cuisines and quick bites.

Theatre and Live Performances

Musical theatre fans are in for a treat today as "Side By Side With Sondheim" opens at the Brisbane Powerhouse. This intimate production celebrates the work of legendary songwriter Stephen Sondheim, bringing his most famous melodies to life in a sophisticated setting. If you prefer contemporary drama, the Queensland Theatre is hosting performances of "Torch the Place" at the Bille Brown Theatre. Shows are scheduled for 5:00 PM and 6:30 PM, offering a sharp and humorous look at family dynamics and the items we choose to keep. Additionally, the powerful play "Hotel Sorrento" continues its season at Ad Astra in Brisbane, telling a gripping story of reunion and secrets among three sisters.

Public Exhibitions and Tours

For those interested in the visual arts, "The Art of Banksy: Without Limits" is currently open at Uptown on Queen Street. This expansive exhibition showcases over 300 works, including original pieces, sculptures, and immersive digital mapping installations that provide a deep dive into the world of the elusive street artist. Over at GOMA, you can experience "Olafur Eliasson: Presence," a sensory exhibition that explores themes of light and perception. If you want to see the city from a different angle, join a Clock Tower Tour at City Hall. Tours run from 10:15 AM to 4:45 PM, allowing visitors to ride the historic cage lift and enjoy a 360-degree view of the city center.

Community Wellness and Meetups

For a more active morning, head to the Hub Neighbourhood Centre in Inala for a "Konga" fitness class starting at 9:30 AM, or join the "Zumba Gold" session at The Community Place at 9:00 AM, which is tailored for seniors. Later in the afternoon, tech professionals and enthusiasts can gather for the "Small but Mighty" AI meetup at 5:30 PM, where local experts will discuss the future of small-scale language models.