Photo credit: Lucky Frawley

The Bellarine Arts Centre Launches, Unveiling Bold New Season for 2026

The Potato Shed has been transformed and rebranded to reflect the growing Bellarine.

Get ready for an unforgettable year at the Bellarine Arts Centre (BAC), formerly known as the Potato Shed, which has officially unveiled a refreshed identity and a dynamic 2026 season that promises to excite, inspire, and entertain. The season launch on Friday, 6 February, marked the beginning of a bold new chapter for the region’s cultural cornerstone, with an electric mix of music, theatre, and storytelling that is set to captivate audiences all year long.

Hosted by the charismatic Fem Belling from Grrrl Power, the night saw a sneak peek of what’s to come, with stirring performances from Delsinki and Brook Taylor of The Deserters, Issi Dye from Backtrack, and a tantalizing preview of The Deplorables by playwright Christine Davey.

Bellarine Arts Centre (BAC)

When: 9:00am to 5:00pm Monday to Friday

Where: 41 Peninsula Drive, Drysdale, 3222

Keep up to date with all things arts, exhibitions and stage here.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Bellarine Arts Centre (@bellarineartscentre)

A Season to Remember: Headline Performances

The 2026 program kicks off with a powerhouse tribute to Aussie rock legend Johnny O’Keefe. On 17 February, Wild One: The J O’K Story starring cabaret sensation Issi Dye promises to take audiences on a wild ride through the music and myths of the iconic figure who shaped Australia’s rock ’n’ roll legacy.

On 28 February, Ben Lee: On Tour Always will bring the joy of live music to the BAC’s outdoor amphitheatre. Settle in for an intimate, picnic-friendly evening under the stars, celebrating one of Australia’s beloved music icons.

On 10 March, Imagine: The Journey of John Lennon takes the stage, exploring the artistic evolution of Lennon—from Beatlemania to his timeless anthem. This production offers a rare glimpse into the life of one of music’s most transformative figures.

For theatre enthusiasts, The Deplorables, presented by local theatre company Skin of Our Teeth Productions, will hit the stage on 14 March. This heartwarming musical, inspired by true events, follows two women’s cricket teams in 1984 Bendigo as they make sporting history and challenge societal norms.

Then on 27 March, The Deserters will bring their unique blend of baroque, folk, country, and blues to the BAC stage. Featuring Delsinki, Brooke Taylor, and ARIA-nominated musician Dan Brody, the night promises an unforgettable mix of genre-defying music.

A Bold New Era for BAC

This year marks a defining moment in the Bellarine Arts Centre’s history, with the venue’s new name and look reflecting an exciting future. The transformation includes plans for a major redevelopment—funding is currently being sought from both the Victorian and Australian governments to expand the BAC into a state-of-the-art facility, complete with a larger theatre, upgraded technical spaces, and enhanced community and learning areas.

Councillor Rowan Story AM, RFD, Chair of the BAC Community Asset Committee, expressed his enthusiasm for the season ahead, saying, “This eclectic mix of shows has something for everyone—music fans, theatre buffs, and families. Our local schools are an integral part of this precinct, and we’re proud to continue fostering creative opportunities for young people.”

The Centre’s commitment to nurturing young talent is reflected in its ongoing support of local schools, where students rehearse, perform, and build confidence. Cr. Story added, “Bellarine Arts Centre is about bringing the community together, providing opportunities for connection, learning, and belonging.”

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Bellarine Arts Centre (@bellarineartscentre)

The Road Ahead

Looking towards the future, Cr. Eddy Kontelj, Chair of Arts and Culture, highlighted how the BAC redevelopment will elevate the precinct and attract more touring productions to the region. “With a $36 million investment, we will bring facilities to the Bellarine Peninsula that our region deserves. This will help us reach audiences not just locally, but across Melbourne, Ballarat, the Surf Coast, and beyond,” he said.

The transformation is not just about bricks and mortar—it’s about ensuring that the BAC remains a hub of creativity, community, and connection for years to come.

Ready to experience this season of bold performances?  The curtain’s up, the stage is set, and a new era is about to unfold at the BAC. Get your seats before they sell out!

Visit the Bellarine Arts Centre website here to download the full program and book your tickets today.