QPAC PRODUCTIONS ATTRACT BUMPER TICKET SALES

One of the world’s best-loved musicals and a live tour based on a runaway television hit are two of the productions bringing bumper ticket sales at QPAC.

Arts Minister Rod Welford said The Phantom of the Opera and Spicks and Speck-tacular were proving to be huge hits with Queensland audiences.

“After an extraordinary first week, ticket sales have topped $3 million,” Mr Welford said.

“The Phantom of the Opera, opening in February 2008, is already booked solidly for its first three weeks.

“Spicks and Speck-tacular, based on the popular ABC television series Spicks and Specks, sold out all three of its 6-8 December performances, warranting a further two late-night shows to satisfy demand.”

Mr Welford said last week’s phenomenal sales follow an extremely robust past few months at QPAC.

“The blockbuster musical Miss Saigon, which is in its final week of an eight-week season, has played to extraordinary critical and public acclaim,” he said.

“A Night on Broadway with John Frost recently sold out; the Queensland Pops Orchestra notched up one of its strongest attendances last weekend; David Strassman’s Get Chuck’d tour, which comes to QPAC’s Playhouse in October, is looking to extend its season; and with crooner Josh Groban’s first concert almost selling out within a day, QPAC has added a second concert which is also proving to be popular.

“Queensland’s own flagship arts companies are matching these strong sales, with Queensland Theatre Company, Queensland Orchestra, Opera Queensland and the Queensland Ballet all having successful seasons at QPAC.

“This success is mirrored across the entire Cultural Centre with audiences embracing the new Gallery of Modern Art and the refurbished State Library of Queensland.

“QPAC’s decision to be a major investor in The Phantom of the Opera’s Australian tour will continue to deliver financial benefits well after the Brisbane season.”

Media contact: Marnie Stitz or Emma Clarey on 3237 1000