Entertainment

Lorde electrified the audience at Rod Laver Arena on February 21, 2026, as part of her Ultrasound World Tour. Now at the age of 29, the New Zealand-born artist, whose real name is Ella Yelich-O’Connor, has already secured her place in music history. Her debut album, Pure Heroine, released when she was just 16, not only achieved global success but also transformed the pop landscape, influencing a generation of artists including Billie Eilish and Charli XCX.

Performing in Melbourne, Lorde showcased tracks from her latest album, Virgin, a deeply personal break-up record that explores themes of grief and transformation. The concert featured a unique DIY staging, with clothing strewn across the stage, handheld cameras capturing the intimate moments, and dancers blending seamlessly with the band. This raw presentation allowed fans a glimpse into her artistic journey of rebuilding and self-discovery.

As the night began with the opening track “Hammer,” Lorde emerged in baggy jeans and a casual red T-shirt, embodying the gender-fluid themes expressed in her music. The first half of the concert resonated with anthemic new songs from Virgin whereas seamlessly transitioning into beloved classics from Pure Heroine. The crowd responded enthusiastically, especially during fan favorites. Lorde’s willingness to express her emotions publicly is one of her most powerful attributes, making her performances both relatable and profound.

Melbourne Theatre Company’s Do Not Pass Go

The Melbourne Theatre Company is currently hosting Do Not Pass Go, a comedy that takes a humorous yet insightful appear at office culture. Written by Jean Tong, the play features a dynamic between two contrasting characters—Flux, a trans newcomer, and Penny, a seasoned employee. Their interactions highlight various contemporary issues, including gender identity and mental health, all while maintaining a light-hearted tone.

Set in a seemingly mundane party supplies distributor, the play captures Flux’s rebellious spirit as they navigate a rigid corporate environment. Penny, initially resistant to change, begins to soften as Flux introduces unexpected antics into their function life. This comedic rapport not only entertains but also prompts reflection on deeper societal themes, making it a must-witness production, running until March 28.

Chinese New Year Celebration with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra

On the same evening as Lorde’s concert, the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra celebrated Chinese New Year with a vibrant performance at Hamer Hall. The concert, marked by energy and cultural richness, featured a blend of traditional and contemporary works. Mindy Meng Wang, a guzheng player, was a highlight of the evening, performing “The Butterfly Lovers” concerto, which beautifully intertwines Western orchestral elements with Chinese storytelling.

Conductor Li Biao led the orchestra through a dynamic program that included Wang Xilin’s Torch Festival and Saint-Saëns’ Cello Concerto No. 1, performed by Zlatomir Fung. The event concluded with an encore that left the audience in high spirits, showcasing the playful essence of the Year of the Horse.

Ray Lawler’s The Doll Trilogy at Red Stitch

In a rare theatrical event, Red Stitch is presenting the complete Doll Trilogy by Ray Lawler until April 11. This trilogy, which includes Kid Stakes, Other Times, and Summer of the Seventeenth Doll, explores the lives of Australian cane cutters and their relationships against the backdrop of historical events such as the Great Depression and World War II.

While Summer of the Seventeenth Doll often receives most attention, the prequels are essential for understanding the complete narrative arc, offering depth to the characters’ backgrounds. This production is a unique opportunity for audiences to witness the evolution of Lawler’s work in a single season, directed with care by Ella Caldwell.

As the artistic landscape in Melbourne continues to thrive, events like Lorde’s concert and these theatrical productions highlight the city’s vibrant cultural scene. Each performance invites audiences to reflect on personal and societal themes, ensuring that the arts remain a dynamic force in community engagement.

For those looking to experience the best of Melbourne’s entertainment, diving into these performances is a rewarding choice. Don’t miss the chance to witness the incredible talent that continues to shape the cultural narrative of Australia.