Cultural Cravings in Central Geelong. Satisfy Your Cultural Cravings in Central Geelong
In the midst of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, many of us have found ourselves spending more time at home than we would like. This has left us longing for the experiences we once enjoyed—live music, entertainment, cultural experiences, and the vibrant arts scene that our local venues offered. While we may not be able to visit our favorite spots in person just yet, Central Geelong’s arts and cultural institutions are stepping up, offering a wide variety of virtual and ‘pandemic-safe’ events to keep us connected, inspired, and entertained.
Whether you’re an art lover, a theater enthusiast, or simply craving something creative to do, Central Geelong offers an impressive array of experiences that can satisfy all kinds of cultural cravings—right from the comfort of your home or in a safe, socially distanced setting.
Geelong Arts Centre: A Creative Hub, Now at Home
Even though Geelong Arts Centre remains temporarily closed to in-person audiences, it continues to serve as the heart of Central Geelong’s cultural landscape. Their *Where Creativity Meets at Home* program is a great example of how this beloved venue is keeping us connected to the arts. The online program features a fantastic mix of performances, behind-the-scenes glimpses, creative activities, and free livestream events every Friday.
For example, on Friday, July 31, you can enjoy a free online performance by Australian singer-songwriter Ella Hooper. Known for her work with the band *Killing Heidi*, Ella will be performing a set of original acoustic rock renditions, along with some unreleased material from her upcoming album. This is a great opportunity to experience her music in an intimate, live-streamed setting.
The following week, Friday, August 7, the Geelong Arts Centre is offering a special treat for families with children. The Super Show’ is a fast-paced, circus-style performance designed to tap into the superhero spirit in little ones (ages 8 and under). Perfect for engaging kids in a fun and interactive way, this performance promises to be a highlight for the whole family.
These programs ensure that we can still enjoy world-class performances, stay engaged with the arts, and foster creativity in our own homes. To learn more or to view upcoming performances, visit [Geelong Arts Centre](https://geelongartscentre.org.au/where-creativity-meets-at-home/).
Piano Bar Geelong: A Night of Entertainment, Virtually Delivered
Piano Bar Geelong, the only dedicated piano bar in the region, is another local gem offering virtual entertainment during this time. Known for its high-energy performances, this iconic venue brings joy and entertainment to audiences every night of the week. While the physical venue may be closed, Piano Bar Geelong is continuing to provide live-streamed performances to uplift and entertain viewers from home.
Tune in nightly at 7:30 pm for a range of performances—from heartfelt piano ballads to upbeat, sing-along tunes. Additionally, Sundays bring a special treat with the hilarious and ever-popular **‘Pitch Please’ Drag Queen show, which streams live at 6:30 pm. These performances bring the lively atmosphere of Piano Bar Geelong directly into your living room.
If you’re craving a fun night of music, laughter, and entertainment, don’t miss out. To book tickets for the next show or to catch a live stream.
Village Cinemas Geelong: Enjoy the Magic of Movies with Safety in Mind
For movie lovers,Village Cinemas Geelong is one of the region’s top destinations for the latest films. While movie theaters have had to adjust to new safety protocols, Village Cinemas has implemented a variety of measures to ensure moviegoers can still enjoy the magic of the big screen in a safe environment. They now offer staggered session times and have reduced seating to ensure social distancing in their theaters, filling every second row.
From the latest blockbuster hits to classic films, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for an action-packed thriller or a heartwarming family film, Village Cinemas Geelong is the perfect place to experience the joy of cinema safely.
Museum of Play and Art (MoPA): Immersive Learning for Young Creatives
Families with young children will love the Museum of Play and Art (MoPA), a delightful and interactive space dedicated to creative play-based learning. MoPA is renowned for its immersive exhibits that encourage children to explore, create, and learn in a fun environment. And while MoPA is still open for in-person visits, it is implementing a booking system to ensure that the museum remains a safe space for all visitors.
MoPA offers three daily play sessions (between 9:30 am and 4:30 pm), each with a maximum of 80 participants. Parents and guardians can book their sessions online to secure their spot. In addition to the creative exhibits, MoPA’s café provides healthy snacks and drinks to keep the little ones energized throughout the day. Plus, for extra comfort, the museum offers low-sensory spaces, feeding rooms, and change facilities to accommodate families with specific needs.
National Wool Museum: Celebrating Creativity and Craftsmanship
For art and culture enthusiasts, the National Wool Museum is a must-visit destination, showcasing the fascinating history and cultural significance of wool in Australia. Currently, the museum is hosting the We The Makers – Designer Showcase’ exhibition, which features the works of 21 professional and emerging designers from across Australia and the world. This stunning collection celebrates the artistry, innovation, and craftsmanship of wool, from fashion and art to handcraft and science.
The exhibition is available for viewing both online and in person, with the museum open daily from **10 am to 3 pm**. And for those who visit in person, don’t forget to vote for your favorite maker for a chance to win a **$250 National Wool Museum Shop gift pack**.
To explore the ‘We The Makers’ exhibition or to learn more about the museum’s collection.
Pinot and Picasso: Bring Art to Your Home with ‘Paint and Sip’
If you’ve ever wanted to unleash your inner artist, **Pinot and Picasso** has made it easy for you to get creative at home. The popular *Paint and Sip* experience allows participants to enjoy a glass of wine while following along with a live online art class. Every **Friday and Saturday at 7 pm**, Pinot and Picasso hosts a Zoom class where artists of all skill levels can join in, guided by a professional artist who provides step-by-step instructions to create a beautiful masterpiece.
For the ultimate experience, you can purchase a **Pinot and Picasso Art Box** online, which includes all the materials you need—paints, brushes, and a canvas—so you can get started right away. It’s the perfect way to relax, have fun, and indulge in your creative side from the comfort of your own home.
Geelong Gallery: Discover Australia’s Leading Regional Gallery
Geelong Gallery is one of Australia’s oldest and most respected regional galleries, housing a rich collection of Australian and European art dating back to the 18th century. The gallery is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, offering free, timed-entry tickets to ensure safe visitor numbers. For those who prefer to explore from the comfort of home, the Geelong Gallery Channel offers virtual tours, exhibition overviews, and curator insights, allowing art lovers to immerse themselves in the gallery’s collection online.
From iconic Australian paintings to contemporary sculptures, Geelong Gallery is a must-visit for art enthusiasts in the region.
Supporting Local Arts and Culture
Central Geelong’s cultural institutions are continuously adapting to provide a safe and enriching experience for everyone. While we may be physically distanced, these creative offerings allow us to stay connected and inspired by the arts. Whether you’re enjoying a live-streamed concert, exploring virtual art exhibits, or taking part in a paint-and-sip class, there’s no shortage of ways to indulge in your cultural cravings.
By supporting these local businesses and cultural organizations, you’re not only enriching your own life but also helping to sustain the vibrant cultural fabric of Central Geelong. For more information about what’s happening in Central Geelong or to explore more ways to support local businesses.
So, whether you’re seeking a family-friendly experience, a night of entertainment, or a chance to explore new creative outlets, Central Geelong’s arts and culture scene has something to satisfy every craving.
https://www.centralgeelong.com.au/news/satisfy-your-cultural-cravings-in-central-geelong