Pamela Allen exhibition
2025-09-21 - 2027-07-18 | State Library of NSW
State Library of NSW launches Australia’s first Pamela Allen exhibition
The State Library of NSW is bringing the magical world of beloved children’s author-illustrator Pamela Allen to life, with Australia’s first-ever interactive exhibition dedicated to her work — now open for families to enjoy.
The Curious World of Pamela Allen invites visitors to step inside the pages of treasured classics including Mr Archimedes’ Bath, Mr McGee, Grandpa and Thomas and Alexander’s Outing, celebrating more than 40 years of stories that have delighted generations of young readers.
State Librarian Dr Caroline Butler-Bowdon says the exhibition reflects the growing role libraries play in family life.
“Families are coming to libraries more than ever to connect, explore and play together. This joyful exhibition is our way of showing families just how much we love having them here.”
Designed as an immersive story-play space, the exhibition allows children and parents to:

Play beneath Mr McGee’s tree and slide down its slippery dip
Turn giant pages of Bertie and the Bear and bring the story to life
Splash and explore with the animals from Who Sank the Boat?
Dress up in character hats, discover cosy reading nooks and secret hideaways
View Pamela Allen’s original illustrations and more

Pamela Allen says the exhibition captures the heart of her storytelling.
“This exhibition is a playground where children and parents can have fun together and create lasting memories. My books are made to be shared — it’s the voice that brings them to life.”
–> Official website

Review

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📖 Pamela Allen exhibition at the State Library of NSW
📖 I took my son to see the beautiful exhibition about the career of esteemed author and illustrator Pamela Allen (who is 91 now!)
I remember her books fondly from my childhood and primary school days so it was nice for my experience to come full circle by me introducing her books to my son.
I love that the exhibition is suitable for both adults and children. For the adults there’s plenty to look at and read and for the kids there are a few fun interactive activities to explore. My son loved them all.
I highly recommend you check it out if you have kids or grandkids under the age of 8 or if you’re just a big kid at heart or admirer of beautiful stories/illustrations like me.
It’s free and on until July 2027 but don’t leave it till the last minute!
The State Library of NSW also hosts a number of other excellent exhibitions (not really suitable for young children though).
#pamelaallen #pamelaallenexhibition #statelibraryofnsw #lauraharrispublishing #penguinbooks #penguinkidsbooks

Mike Hewson's The Key’s Under the Mat
2025-10-04 - 2026-08-23 | Art Gallery of NSW
Mike Hewson’s The Key’s Under the Mat
Mike Hewson’s The Key’s Under the Mat is an immersive exhibition that invites audiences to step inside a richly layered world of storytelling, symbolism and imagination. Through intricate sets and visual detail, Hewson transforms ordinary domestic spaces into places of mystery and discovery. Visitors are encouraged to explore, look closely and piece together hidden narratives woven throughout the installation. The exhibition blurs the line between art, theatre and play, creating a uniquely engaging experience for all ages.
FREE Entry
4 October 2025 – 23 August 2026

Art Gallery of New South Wales, Sydney

Naala Badu (new) building

Lower level 4, Nelson Packer Tank
Open daily 10am – 5pm
Until 10pm Wednesdays (except 24 and 31 December)
Closed Christmas Day (25 December) and Good Friday

–> Official website

Museum of Illusions Sydney
2025-12-26 - 2026-12-26 | 413 George St Sydney
Museum of Illusions Sydney
Museum of Illusions, the world’s largest and most rapidly expanding network of privately owned museums, will open its first Australian location this summer with the launch of Museum of Illusions Sydney – a captivating destination where perception is challenged and imagination takes the lead. First established in Zagreb, Croatia in 2015, the brand has grown over the past decade to more than 60 museums across 28 countries, welcoming millions of visitors annually. Every location shares a single goal: to deliver unforgettable, joy-filled experiences that linger long after the visit ends.
Situated on 413 George Street in the centre of Sydney, Museum of Illusions Sydney invites wonder-seekers of all ages to see the world differently through immersive environments, optical illusions and multi-sensory installations that delight and surprise. Covering nearly 900 square metres, the museum will house over 80 hands-on exhibits, including gravity-defying spaces, oversized 3D illusions, holograms and perspective-altering rooms designed to inspire laughter, curiosity and amazement.
“Our vision has always been to spark joy and a sense of wonder through the power of illusion,” said Kim Schaefer, CEO of Museum of Illusions. “Sydney’s vibrant creativity, cultural diversity and love of shared experiences make it an ideal home for our newest museum. We’re thrilled to bring our unique mix of science, storytelling and spectacle to Australia for the very first time.”
Each Museum of Illusions location draws inspiration from its local surroundings, and Sydney’s museum will feature exclusive, site-specific installations, including:

The Reversed Room, inspired by the traditional Australian pub as a place of connection, reflecting the city’s strong social culture.

The Building Illusion, influenced by Sydney’s beautiful Queen Victoria Building, celebrating the city’s architectural heritage.

Following Eyes, inspired by the swimmers and surfers of Bondi and Sydney’s iconic beaches, featuring a sunscreen-covered figure that captures the city’s playful, sun-loving coastal lifestyle.

More than just a hub for eye-catching photos, Museum of Illusions Sydney blends entertainment with education, revealing the fascinating science behind human perception. It’s a space where families, friends and content creators can tap into their curiosity and rediscover the joy of seeing the world from a new perspective and share moments of wonder.
It is fully air-conditioned inside, and there are toilets, lockers and a gift store on site.
Address: 413 George St Sydney (near Market St)
Dates: 26 December 2025 – 2026
Ticket prices:
Take 20% off these prices below for a limited time!

Adult: $47
Child 5-12yr: $36
Family 2A 2C: $152
4yo and under: Free
Carer: Free

Hansel and Gretel
2026-01-27 - 2026-02-28 | Sydney Opera House, Sydney
Hansel and Gretel

A Magical Opera Adventure
“Nibble, nibble, little mouse, who’s that nibbling at my house?”
Lost and hungry in the shadowy forest, Hansel and Gretel search desperately for a place to call home. Their fortunes change when they discover a dazzling house made of candy – and meet a peculiar woman who is far from as sweet as she appears. Can the clever siblings outsmart the wicked witch and find their way home?
Acclaimed director Elijah Moshinsky brings this timeless Grimms’ fairy tale to life with warmth, humour, and just the right touch of darkness. Audiences will be enchanted by surreal storybook settings, larger-than-life costumes, and familiar characters brought vividly to the stage.
An all-star Australian cast features Margaret Plummer and Stacey Alleaume as the resourceful Hansel and Gretel, with Jane Ede delightfully sinister as the witch. Tahu Matheson conducts Humperdinck’s magical score, rich with German folk melodies and lush orchestration. Performed in English, this production is a perfect introduction to opera for newcomers and a nostalgic delight for seasoned fans.
Presented by Opera Australia.
Suitable for all ages but note the length: 125 minutes, including 1 interval
—> More Info / Book Tickets Here or Here

DigiPark Sydney
2026-01-29 - 2026-12-31 | Westfield Sydney
DigiPark in Sydney is a new immersive digital entertainment and art experience located on Level 5 of Westfield Sydney in the CBD, blending interactive technology, art, science and play for visitors of all ages.
It features around 19 themed attractions including

Space & Time Cube – this 3D holographic tunnel delivers a mind-blowing journey through light and colour
Orbital Cinema – an experience that makes you feel like you are completely immersed in the story happening on screen
3D Scanner – turn yourself into tangible creations with a cutting-edge Sharewow 3D printer
Wandering Planet – a surreal space and be surrounded by countless illuminated planetary lights
Magical Graffiti – use a magical animation pen and scanner to bring your favourite colours and drawings to life on the walls of this exhibition hall
Holographic Studio – this immersive venue offers a stunning sensory experience by blending the virtual and reality together
Cosmic Space – step into this giant kaleidoscope and experience this dazzling world of mirrors, glowing lights and more

Designed as a family-friendly destination, you’ll find a mix of virtual reality, kinetic light art, digital play and even a 3D figurine creator studio where guests can make personalised mini digital avatars. Open seven days a week with sessions typically lasting around 60–90 minutes, DigiPark provides a unique way to explore creativity, technology and immersive storytelling under one roof. Since its late-2025 opening, it’s become a standout attraction in Sydney’s entertainment landscape, ideal for school-holiday outings, group visits and anyone drawn to cutting-edge digital experiences.
DigiPark is open seven days a week (10.00am – 10.00pm).
General entry from $39 per person, $149 for a Family of 4 (2 adults, 2 children)
Location: Westfield Sydney (Level 5), Market Street, Sydney.
For more information, visit: www.digipark.com.au for details.
