A Broadway musical, autumn horse racing and Ramadan menus are among the new things to do in Sydney.
As we creep into autumn, the change of the seasons and weather brings an opportunity to find some new things to do in Sydney. Perhaps you’re in the mood for an afternoon spent discovering some new art, or maybe an evening at the theatre? And if you’re one of the millions of Muslims soon fasting for Ramadan, there are some new late-night events
1. MJ the Musical
Moonwalking on to the stage at Sydney Lyric Theatre on Wednesday February 26, this jukebox musical is set in 1992, ahead of the King of Pop’s Dangerous World Tour. Michael Jackson’s signature sound and moves are, of course, central to the show’s appeal, but it also goes beyond this to look at the unparalleled artistry that propelled him to superstardom.
It’s impressed audiences on Broadway and the West End for a few years now, with the likes of Jennifer Hudson, Angela Bassett and even Jackson’s son, Prince, witnessing Roman Banks in the lead role.
When: February 26 until June 22, 2025
Where: Sydney Lyric Theatre, 55 Pirrama Rd, Pyrmont NSW 2009
Price: From $70
2. And Then Together, Sullivan+Strumpf
Gregory Hodge is an Australian artist based in Paris whose work features people, architectural shapes and nature. Painting with acrylics on linen, his creations have a deliberate handmade quality to them, further enhanced by his use of bespoke tools and brushes to create gestural marks. His solo exhibition will open at Sullivan+Strumpf in Zetland on February 27.
When: February 27 until March 29
Where: Sullivan+Strumpf, 799 Elizabeth St, Zetland NSW 2017
3. Sydney Autumn Racing Carnival 2025
Racing Carnivals are run in each state of Australia throughout the year, with the biggest being the Melbourne spring racing carnival. In New South Wales, the Sydney autumn racing carnival is a highlight. Across six weeks, pundits can watch 18 Group 1 races. The two-day Star Championships are the Grand Finals of Australian racing, taking place on April 5 and 12 this year.
The season kicks off on March 1 with the Verry Elleegant Stakes Day at Royal Randwick.
When: March 1 until April 19
Where: Royal Randwick and Rosehill Gardens Racecourse
4. Steam Train Weekends at NSW Rail Museum
Every weekend from March 1, visitors to the NSW Rail Museum can enjoy a 40-minute trip along the historic Loop Line from Thirlmere to Buxton and back.
The Picton-Mittagong Loop Line opened in 1867, servicing the surrounding villages and local businesses for 52 years. The communities relied heavily on the railways, causing significant bottlenecks on the single-track lines, so a new double-track alignment was later opened in 1919, making the majority of the historic Loop Line inactive. Nowadays, the line remains largely inactive, apart from the Thirlmere to Buxton line which is accessible via museum rides.
When: From March 1
Where: NSW Rail Museum
How much: From $12 including museum access
5. Shen Yun
It’s been seen by more than 10 million people at worldwide sold-out shows, and now the New York-based production returns to Sydney Capitol Theatre for a limited run. The vibrant production get the grandeur of pre-communist China in the spotlight, with classical Chinese dancing, live orchestra and dynamic backdrops creating a memorable show.
When: February 26 until March 9, 2025
Where: Capitol Theatre
How much: From $115
6. Ramadan
Ramadan is considered one of the holiest months of the year for Muslims and is a time dedicated to spiritual growth, devotion and worship. From dawn until sunset, Muslims refrain from eating, drinking and smoking.
Middle Eastern restaurant Babylon, on Pitt St, is serving a Halal feasting menu designed for two to seven people to share. Featuring signature dishes including babaganoush and the show-stopping Babylon mixed grill, it’s the perfect way to break the fast ($59 per person, available until March 29).
Elsewhere, Haldon Street and the surrounding areas will once again transform into a vibrant street market. More than 60 local businesses take part in the Lakemba Nights, which attracted 1.6 million visitors last year. The month-long celebration will run every Thursday to Sunday, 6pm-2am, until March 30.
7. Henry 5
The 35th annual Bell Shakespeare season begins on March 1, with Marion Potts’ new production of Shakespeare’s famous war play getting things started. It features a dynamic new cast with many actors making their main stage theatre debut, including lead JK Kazzi. And what a venue to debut at!
As for the story itself, there’s nothing quite like a dent to a young king’s ego to start a war. When the French prince insults King Henry, who is trying to prove himself a worthy ruler, England is launched into war with its cross-Channel neighbour.
When: March 1 until April 5, 2025
Where: Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000
How much: From $142
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