THE Hamilton Performing Arts Centre (HPAC) will officially kick-off their 2023 Show Season with a fun casual Season Relaunch event on Friday, April 28 from 4pm to 7pm.

The free community event promises to be a fun-filled evening for all ages with live music, activities, ticket giveaways, a themed cocktail and mocktail, and delicious nibbles alongside a few surprises.

If you haven’t already RSVP’d, walk-ups are still welcome to attend on the night and take advantage of the family-friendly party atmosphere.

Kids activities for young people of all ages start at 4pm, including a craft zone and storytelling sessions, plus a doughnut wall relating to the upcoming biological-musical-comedy adventure, ‘You Are A Doughnut’.

The venue will install a pop-up exhibit of show-themed displays to give sneak peeks of what’s in store for the 2023 Season, alongside presenting a line-up of musical talent from across the region.

HPAC’s bar and cafe will be serving show-themed cocktails and mocktails alongside wines, beers, and ciders plus soft drinks and a free tea and coffee station.

Complimentary party food including Possum-Magic-themed treats will be served from 5pm.

Attendees can pick up a new Season Brochure bursting with insights into upcoming events alongside staff tips, ticket information and new seating and venue maps.

The venue has already hosted several successful live music and comedy events this year presented by some of Australia’s biggest touring companies, though the shows programmed by the venue for the 2023 Season begin after the Relaunch event.

“We’re thrilled to showcase our upcoming shows and the engaging additional activities we’ve got planned at the Season Relaunch,” HPAC Performing Arts Centre acting manager, Amanda Hurley said.

“Melbourne Symphony Orchestra will make a welcome return alongside incredible new shows for kids and adults by Inventi Ensemble, including guided artmaking and a community art display.

“We have amazing pianists performing on our Steinway Concert Grand piano and the hilarious Damien Callinan is back alongside a host of family-friendly shows.”

“We’re also excited to take Barry Morgan and his organ on the road to Coleraine and bring a fantastic cabaret comedy to Penshurst, including impersonations of everyone from Dr Frank-N-Furter and Simply Red, to Tones and I.”

Major renovations to the venue’s main event space are currently underway, with the Handbury Auditorium gaining 452 brand new seats alongside a bold repaint and flooring.

The new, more spacious seats, improved layout and carpets mean increased comfort, additional aisle seating with two centre aisles and improved sound quality ready for the rest of the 2023 Season.

The old seats are being donated to community groups and individuals, with recipients encouraged to contact the venue if they would like to rehome some.

“Whether you use our Season Relaunch as an opportunity to entertain the kids, catch-up with friends, enjoy a date night or just to soak up Friday night live music, you’re welcome to come down and join in the fun,” Ms Hurley said.

The event is open to all ages - for more information and to book your free ticket, visit hamiltonpac.com.au