The Ultimate Guide to Gigs in Gippsland
- Bass Coast Shire Council
- Jul 17
- 4 min read
Bass Coast Cultural Venues aims to make accessing the local live entertainment and arts scene as easy as possible, so we have put together a breakdown of everything you need to know about getting to gigs in Gippsland.
Gippsland's Live Entertainment and Arts Scene
Gippsland’s live entertainment and arts scene is a vibrant, growing landscape anchored by modern regional venues, intimate local studios, and a thriving community-driven gig circuit. From major theatrical productions to independent galleries, the region offers a rich cultural experience.
Bass Coast Cultural Venues operates two magnificent local venues - The Union Theatre in Wonthaggi and Berninneit in Cowes, Phillip Island.
The Union is steeped in Wonthaggi's history and is a place of pride at the heart of the community, this year celebrating 100 years! It offers a state-of-the-art theatre, exhibition space in the foyer and home to the outdoor exhibition space Light Box Lane.
Berninneit was opened in late 2023 and is a multi-award winning sustainable masterpiece a block back from the beach with a state-of-the-art theatre, gallery, museum, library and offering a range of community rooms.
We offer live shows, concerts, film screenings, exhibitions, community gatherings and events that cater to a broad diversity of ages, genders, cultures and interests. So whether you're a local, tourist, here for a decade or a day, we have something on offer for you!
Ticket Purchasing: Where to Buy Tickets for Live Shows and Cinemas Sessions
You can purchase your tickets to Bass Coast Cultural Venues events either online through our website, or in person at our box offices (located at Berninneit and The Union Theatre). If you have a Student Card or Concession Card, bring it with you, as you may be eligible for a discounted ticket.
The best way to purchase a ticket online, is to any of Bass Coast Cultural Venues events is go to our website, find the event and date you want to attend, and book directly on that page; that way you have all the important information, and you know the tickets are legitimate!
To book in person at one of our box offices, simply go up to an available staff member, and they will assist you in buying your tickets.
Tip: Buy your tickets in advance, otherwise they might sell out!
Explore the Variety of Live Events Available in Gippsland
Live Music
From album release touring shows, to tribute groups and local artists, Bass Coast Cultural Venues brings in hundreds of incredible musicians in thousands of diverse genres. We also have seasonal events catering to all age groups, including our annual Ocean Film Festival presented by Island Whale Festival.
Live Performance (Theatre, Dance, Comedy & More)
From professional productions to local theatre groups, Bass Coast Cultural Venues hosts an incredible lineup of performers with diverse styles and stories.
We have hosted so many incredible shows, from comedian Tom Gleeson, to Bangarra Dance Company to local theatre groups including Wonthaggi Theatrical Group and Offshore Theatre.
Bass Coast Cultural Venues also hosts performances with puppet shows, magic acts, and interactive performances adapted for younger audiences and family participation.
Images in order: Garry Starr, Grigoryan Brothers, Box Show, The Nutcracker Ballet, Sea Wolves Howl, ACO collective
Film Screenings and Special Cinema Events
Beyond regular cinema screenings of the newest film hits and a few old favourites, Bass Coast Cultural Venues also programs independent film nights, special screenings with guest speakers and Q&A's, and community film festivals such as WIFF (Wonthaggi International Film Festival).
Images in order: Berninneit Cinema, Berninneit Cinema, Popcorn!
Art & Exhibitions
Types of Art Showcased
Bass Coast Cultural Venues focus on primarily locally made contemporary, indigenous, and traditional art forms, that are exhibited in Berninneit Gallery, and Light Box Lane (next to The Union Theatre). Exhibitions include various mediums such as paintings, sculptures, photography, mixed media and even performance art. We also hold art workshops with exhibiting and local artists, which can be booked through our website.
Berninneit Gallery at Cowes, Phillip Island
Berninneit Art Gallery is a curated visual arts space that brings the best in contemporary art to our region - supporting and fostering local artists.
Attracting both residents and visitors alike, this gallery stands as Bass Coast’s first purpose-built exhibition space. The gallery currently presents curated and touring contemporary exhibitions that are relevant to our community, showcasing works from Bass Coast artists, the Council’s collections, and the wider arts sector.
Light Box Lane at The Union Theatre, Wonthaggi
Light Box Lane is an outdoor gallery for images and sound located in the western lane of The Union Theatre in Wonthaggi.
The exhibition space is a place of cultural expression and experimentation where artists present new work and test combinations of image and sound. It brings life to the streets of Wonthaggi and offers our community experiences of discovery and enjoyment, of beauty, awe, joy and wonder that challenge or transcend the everyday.
Images in order: Berninneit Gallery, Berninneit Gallery, Light Box Lane
Maximizing Your Experience: Combining Tickets, Events, and Art for a Memorable Visit
Planning Your Visit...
Timing; The best acts and prime accommodation book up 3–6 months in advance for peak season, Summer (December–January), as well as public and school holidays.
Avoid Clashes! Check local calendars for major events in surrounding towns to avoid accommodation shortages, unless you intend to join in on the added traffic.
Booking & Event Tips... For popular gigs and events (e.g. Tom Gleeson), secure tickets immediately upon release, as local venues often sell out fast.
Know What's On
Follow Bass Coast Cultural Venues on Facebook (f /basscoastculturalvenues), Instagram (@basscoastvenues), and TikTok (@basscoastculturalvenues), to get key information and live updates on the current exhibitions, what's on at the cinemas and local live performances. For additional info and the latest updates, join the Backstage Pass, our email newsletter.
Support Local Arts and Culture
Remember to always purchase your tickets through official sources, like the Bass Coast Cultural Venues website, not only to support local artists, theatres, and galleries, but also ensure you aren't getting misinformed or scammed.
For Enquiries and Assistance;
Contact Us
p: (03) 5671 2720
For updates on or program and upcoming events, subscribe to The Backstage Pass.
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