Mardi Gras Magic and Opera Highlights Today in Sydney

Sydney’s Summer Scene: What’s On Today

Welcome to Thursday, 12 February 2026. As the final month of summer hits its stride, Sydney is alive with the dual celebrations of the Lunar New Year and the iconic Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras. Whether you are a local or just visiting, the city offers a diverse array of theater, art, and community markets to fill your day and evening.

Evening at the Opera House

For those seeking a world-class cultural experience, the Sydney Opera House presents a performance of Hänsel & Gretel tonight at 7:30 PM. Staged in the Joan Sutherland Theatre, this production offers a modern take on the classic tale, featuring lush orchestral scores and captivating stage design. It is a centerpiece of the summer opera season and a must-see for fans of high-scale theatrical storytelling.

Theater and Stage Highlights

Over at the Roslyn Packer Theatre, the award-winning play ART by Yasmina Reza continues its highly anticipated season. Starring Richard Roxburgh, Damon Herriman, and Toby Schmitz, this razor-sharp comedy explores the complexities of friendship through the lens of a single, expensive painting. Tonight's performance begins at 7:00 PM.

For a more irreverent theatrical experience, the Darling Quarter Theatre hosts Stranger Sings! The Parody Musical. This hilarious take on the sci-fi phenomenon is part of the Mardi Gras festivities and promises a night of laughter and nostalgic synth-heavy tunes.

Film and Community Festivals

Today marks the opening day of the Mardi Gras Film Festival 2026. This premier cinematic event showcases LGBTQIA+ stories from around the globe. Screenings take place at various venues across the CBD, offering everything from heart-wrenching documentaries to avant-garde shorts. Additionally, the Oxford Street Night Market at Taylor Square is open today, offering a mix of local artisan goods, community stalls, and a vibrant street atmosphere that captures the spirit of the festival.

Exhibitions and Public Art

• Ron Mueck: Encounter: Visit the Art Gallery of New South Wales to witness the hyper-realistic and monumental sculptures of Ron Mueck. The exhibition is open daily and explores the human condition in startling detail.
• Dangerously Modern: Also at the Art Gallery of NSW, this exhibition focuses on Australian women artists in Europe from 1890–1940, showcasing the vital role they played in international modernism.
• Hay Street Lanterns: In honor of the Lunar New Year, take a stroll through Haymarket to see the zodiac lanterns and hand-painted cultural gateways that illuminate the district.