Candlelight Rock and Jazz Legends: What’s On in Sydney Today

A Day of Musical Mastery and Cultural Discovery

Welcome to Thursday, 5 February 2026. Today, Sydney offers a diverse palette of entertainment, ranging from the dark energy of rock anthems bathed in candlelight to the soulful grooves of world-renowned jazz legends. Whether you are looking for a high-octane concert, a night at the opera, or a quiet stroll through a new historical exhibition, the city has a verified lineup of events to fill your evening.

The Rock Orchestra by Candlelight

Experience legendary rock and metal hits like never before at the State Theatre. This 90-minute concert features a chamber orchestra breathing new life into the music of iconic bands. Set against a backdrop of hundreds of candles, the performance promises a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere that blends classical technique with raw rock energy. It is an unmissable event for those who appreciate a dramatic, symphonic twist on guitar-heavy classics.

• Location: State Theatre, Market Street
• Time: 7:30 PM

Victor Wooten & The Wooten Brothers

For fans of technical brilliance and funk, the legendary Victor Wooten takes the stage at the Factory Theatre. Originally scheduled for the Metro Theatre, this venue change brings the five-time Grammy winner and his brothers to Marrickville for a night of world-class musicianship. Expect an evening of incredible bass solos, jazz fusion, and tight-knit family harmonies that demonstrate why Wooten remains one of the most influential bassists in modern music history.

• Location: Factory Theatre, Marrickville
• Time: Check tickets for evening session details

Opera Australia Presents: Turandot

The Sydney Opera House hosts a magnificent performance of Puccini’s Turandot tonight. Directed by Ann Yee, this production is a visual and auditory feast, featuring monumental sets and the iconic aria 'Nessun dorma'. It is a cornerstone of the 2026 season, telling the ancient tale of a princess whose riddles challenge all who seek her hand. The combination of the Joan Sutherland Theatre’s acoustics and this grand spectacle makes for a quintessential Sydney night out.

• Location: Joan Sutherland Theatre, Sydney Opera House
• Time: 7:30 PM

LOVING: A Photographic Collection of Love

Opening today at Qtopia Sydney, this exhibition offers a poignant look at LGBTQIA+ history. LOVING features a collection of photographs spanning from the 1850s to the 1950s, capturing private moments of affection between men during a century when such relationships were largely hidden from public view. It is a powerful restoration of visibility to histories often left out of traditional archives.

• Location: The Loading Dock Theatre, Qtopia Sydney (Darlinghurst)
• Cost: $15