Program Highlights
A preview of what you have to look forward to...
Pitches, Excerpts and Profiles
Get a taste of upcoming work by Queensland's artists and producers. Discover in-development and tour-ready works from across Queensland in the arts market program, featuring spotlights on standout companies and artists, live pitches, and performance excerpts.
Networking Functions
Take part in a variety of catered face-to-face networking sessions with Queensland’s industry leaders, regional presenters and major organisations. Make meaningful connections with this unique opportunity to take part in the conversations that shape Queensland’s touring landscape.
Professional Development Sessions
Experience an exciting mix of keynote speeches, panel discussions, practical workshops, and Q&A sessions with leading industry experts and major arts organisations, alongside curated networking events focused on developing our touring ecology.
Locals Expo
Welcome the return of the Locals Expo. In this informal pitching event, enjoy your lunch whilst perusing display tables from artists and producers in the program and beyond.
Our Hosts
The Empire has a colourful history — from its beginnings as a flourishing silent movie house to the largest regional theatre in Australia bringing the very best of entertainment to the region.
Getting There
Toowoomba is an easy 90 minute drive west of Brisbane, less than two and a half hours from the Gold Coast and a three hour scenic country drive from the Sunshine Coast.
The Empire is perfectly situated in Toowoomba's CBD.
Parking:
Parking, including wheelchair accessible parking, is available in a choice of two car parks to the right when driving up Neil Street. Neil Street is a one way street. Parking after 5:00pm Monday to Friday is free of charge. There is also parking available at the Neil St Bus Interchange.
Coach Transfers:
For delegates not wanting to drive, Greyhound Australia operate regular coach transfers between Toowoomba and selected locations. There's also regular return shuttles from Brisbane Airport to Toowoomba with the Airport Flyer or CON-X-ION.
The Toowoomba Wellcamp Airport provides the easiest way to travel in and out of the region with direct services to Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Townsville and Regional Queensland.
Accomodation
Try these local deals.
Toowoomba Central Plaza
Stay in Toowoomba Central Plaza Apartment Hotel, the premier accommodation experience in the region, a short 3-minute walk to The Empire Theatre.
Located directly opposite Toowoomba City Hall and right in the middle of all the best cafés, bars, and eateries, Toowoomba has to offer, the hotel has a heated pool and jacuzzi, gym, and BBQ entertaining facilities, all located on-site.
Use code 'CAGDIRECT' for 15% off discount on room bookings.
Burke & Wills Hotel Toowoomba
A short 4-minute walk to The Empire Theatre, Burke & Wills Hotel Toowoomba offers a luxury stay in a range of Suites and Corporate Rooms. The hotel offers room service, 24 hour reception, limited secure off-street parking free for guests and free wi-fi. A sumptuous buffet breakfast is available daily in the Conservatory & Glasshouse for an extra cost.
Use code 'QSHOWCASE25BB' for discounted 'Bed & Breakfast' rate.
Use code 'QSHOWCASE25RO' for discounted 'Room Only' rate.
Quest Hotel Toowoomba
Quest Toowoomba is nestled in the heart of Australia’s second-largest inland city, with some rooms giving guests coveted views over Queens Park – one of the city’s oldest and most treasured parks. Countless boutique cafés, restaurants, and shops pepper the surrounding streets, while the Empire Theatre and Grand Central Shopping Centre are only a short walk away.
Use code 'STAGEQ' for 11% off discount on room bookings.
Oaks Toowoomba Hotel
Oaks Toowoomba Hotel is the perfect base for your Toowoomba stay - it is only a 2-minute walk to the conference venue. Take a stroll to the many restaurants, cafes & bars in the surrounding area, shop till you drop at Grand Central Shopping Centre or sit back and relax at one of the local parks.
With hotel rooms, two and three bedroom options available, the brand new Oaks Toowoomba Hotel is sure to make your stay a great one.
Use code 'OUREVENT' for 12% off discount on room bookings.
Presenting Partners
QShowcase is presented by Stage Queensland and QTouring, an initiative of the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland.
Venue Partner
Networking Partner
Major Sponsor
Sector Supporter
Associate Sponsors
CONNECT Conference + Showcase
Get the lowdown on last year's showcase — Queensland's first statewide performing arts showcase since 2021.
