Your 2026 Guide to the State Theatre’s Biggest Shows

Step into a world of timeless glamour and world-class entertainment. The iconic State Theatre, with its heritage-listed interiors and stunning chandeliers, is set to host an incredible lineup of live music and tribute performances in 2026. From rock legends to orchestral masterpieces, there is something for everyone at Sydney’s most beautiful theatre.

And with ibis Styles Sydney Central located just a short stroll from the theatre on Market Street , you can leave the car behind and immerse yourself in a night of unforgettable entertainment.

Here is your guide to the must-see shows at the State Theatre in 2026:

April

Saturday 18 April: Leo Sayer – Still Feel Like Dancing? After the sold-out success of his 2025 UK tour, the music legend returns home for his first Australian tour in six years. Expect a hit-packed, high-energy evening featuring all his classics, including You Make Me Feel Like Dancing, When I Need You, and Thunder in My Heart .

Friday 24 April: Queen Forever (Tribute) Relive the magic of one of rock’s greatest bands with this spectacular tribute show. Featuring all the anthems, from Bohemian Rhapsody and We Will Rock You to Don’t Stop Me Now, this is a celebration of Queen’s enduring legacy .

 May

Thursday 14 & Friday 15 May: The Waterboys Australian Tour The Waterboys make their long-awaited return to Australia for their first tour in over a decade. Critically acclaimed as one of the best live bands on the planet, they’ll be performing tracks from their audacious new album, Life, Death and Dennis Hopper, alongside beloved classics like The Whole of the Moon .

 June

Friday 19 June: The Film Music of Hans Zimmer Orchestrated Experience the epic film scores of Hans Zimmer like never before. The George Ellis Symphony Orchestra brings to life the majestic sounds of Gladiator, Inception, The Dark Knight, Pirates of the Caribbean, The Lion King, and more in this one-night-only event .

July

Tuesday 14 July: Engelbert Humperdinck – The Celebration Tour The legendary crooner brings his Celebration Tour to Sydney for an evening of timeless classics. Known for his romantic ballads and enduring charm, Engelbert promises a night of sophistication and musical nostalgia .

October

Friday 16 October: Direct from UK – The Rod Stewart Show Get ready to do the twist! This authentic tribute captures the spirit, look, and sound of the one and only Rod Stewart. Expect all the hits, from Maggie May and Do Ya Think I’m Sexy? to Sailing, delivered with true showmanship .

 November

Friday 13 November: Sir El Tom (Elton John Tribute) Tom Cridland, aka “Sir El Tom,” began performing Elton’s music to recover from alcoholism and has since become a global sensation. He plays all of Elton’s best-loved hits, including Rocket Man, Your Song, Crocodile Rock, and I’m Still Standing, with a passion and authenticity that has earned him acclaim from the man himself .

Saturday 14 November: The Bootleg Beatles and their Orchestra In Concert Celebrating 40+ years as the world’s premier Beatles tribute, The Bootleg Beatles return with a full orchestra. This symphonic spectacular recreates the magic of the Fab Four’s later years, bringing a lush, orchestral grandeur to classics like Hey Jude, Let It Be, and the Abbey Road medley .

Your Perfect Pre-Show Base

Make your night at the theatre truly special by staying at ibis Styles Sydney Central. Located in the heart of the CBD, we are just minutes from the State Theatre’s doors . Enjoy a pre-show drink at a nearby bar, walk to the theatre, and then retreat to the comfort of our modern rooms after the curtain call.

Don’t miss your chance to see these incredible shows.

Book your stay at ibis Styles Sydney Central today!