News and guides

News, previews and history from Hunter stages, and the guides we keep up to date through the season.

News

• News · EisteddfodsThe Lake Macquarie Eisteddfod is over, after many years of young performersThe society's decision, and where students can compete now
• News · On stageHunter stages October 2026: Frozen, the eisteddfod and a 60s revueThe month's highlights
• News · EisteddfodsAbermain Eisteddfod 2026 is on again, from Abermain to Vincent StreetDance solos at Vincent Street, 6 to 10 October
• HistoryHalf a mark: the day a coalfields choir won in SydneyFrom a century of newspaper reports

Guides

• Guide · The Cessnock theatreCessnock Performing Arts Centre: an independent visitor's guideWhat's on there, parking, access and how to book
• On stageCessnock shows on stage, month by monthEvery Hunter stage date we know of, by month
• Guide · ConcertsHunter Valley concerts 2026 and 2027Vineyard gigs, theatre concerts and orchestras
• Guide · Tribute showsTribute shows Hunter Valley, 2026 and 2027ABBA, Bee Gees, Neil Diamond, Fleetwood Mac and more
• Guide · ComedyMelbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow and comedy in the HunterTouring comics and the Comedy Festival Roadshow
• Guide · KidsChildrens theatre in the Hunter: kids' shows and school holiday theatreFamily shows and youth productions
• Guide · TheatreNewcastle theatre: plays and musicals in Newcastle and the HunterTouring productions and community theatre
• Support · Theatre companiesNewcastle theatre companies, and how to join oneWho they are, where they work, and how to join
• Guide · EisteddfodsAbermain Eisteddfod 2026: dates, sections and where to watchDates, sections and where to watch
• Guide · ChristmasHunter Valley Christmas 2026: carols, lights and showsCarols, Christmas shows and the lights
• Guide · AccessAccessible shows Hunter Valley: Companion Card, hearing loops and step-free seatsCompanion Card, hearing loops and step-free seats
• Guide · Theatre hireTheatre hire Newcastle and the Hunter: halls and stages for a showFor schools, studios and companies
• Support · FundingArts grants NSW for Hunter performers and companies, and which are openWhat each pays for, who can apply, and two October deadlines
• AboutAbout Cessnock StageWho we are and how we work
• Guide · Choosing theatre seatsCessnock Performing Arts Centre seating planThe official plan, stairs and questions to settle before paying