Welcome to this week's edition of The Newy List!
It might be cold out there, but the city is absolutely stacked this week. The Newcastle Comedy Festival is in full swing with shows taking over venues across town, the 25th anniversary of the Hunter Emerging Art Prize opens on Friday, and there’s a massive lineup of live music, theatre, and local markets to get around. Here are the 20 best things to do in Newcastle and the Hunter Valley this week.
Featured Events
Scrambled - ASPIRE Production
Catholic Schools Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle presents their annual ASPIRE production, Scrambled. After a fall, Beth loses her memory, and as she tries to piece her life back together with the help of the various parts of her brain, she begins to wonder if losing her memory might be the best thing that ever happened to her. Featuring a host of contemporary hits, this original musical explores identity and second chances.
When: Wednesday 29 July to Saturday 1 August (Various times)
Where: Civic Theatre, 375 Hunter Street, Newcastle
Tickets: Book here
Anisa Nandaula - No Small Talk
As part of the Newcastle Comedy Festival, Anisa Nandaula brings her acclaimed show No Small Talk to the Civic Playhouse. Known for her appearances on Talkin' 'Bout Your Gen, Anisa dives headfirst into the chaos of her life, from feuding with neighbours to workplace drama and returning to Africa. Expect no filters and big laughs from the 2025 Melbourne Comedy Festival Best Newcomer nominee.
When: Friday 31 July and Saturday 1 August, 7:00pm
Where: Playhouse, Civic Theatre, 375 Hunter Street, Newcastle
Tickets: Book here
Kate Miller-Heidke - The Kiss and the Abyss
Presented by The Act Newcastle, Kate Miller-Heidke will perform an exclusive, intimate live recording of her new album The Kiss and the Abyss ahead of its August release. Set on a centralised 360-degree stage at Earp Distilling Co., the show promises folk-influenced, darker textures and Kate's signature theatrical storytelling. Note: The event is currently sold out, but a waitlist is available.
When: Friday 31 July, 6:30pm
Where: Earp Distilling Co., 41 Darling Street, Carrington
Tickets: Join waitlist here
MUSIC
The Living End
The Living End are tearing it up live on their 'I Only Trust Rock n Roll Tour'. Expect raw, unrelenting energy, new tracks from their latest album, and all the massive hits that made them Australian punk rock royalty.
When: Saturday 1 August, 7:00pm
Where: NEX, Wests City (Newcastle West)
Open Mic Comedy Night
Kick off your week with genuine laughs at Newcastle Comedy Club's weekly free open mic night. It’s a chance to see amateur comedians test out fresh, unvetted material. The crowd reaction is the feedback mechanism, making for an unpredictable and highly entertaining Tuesday evening.
When: Tuesday 28 July, doors 7:00pm
Where: Newcastle Comedy Club, 139 Maitland Rd, Islington
Tickets: Free entry - Info here
Friday & Saturday Night Comedy Showcases
If you prefer your comedy a little more polished, the Newcastle Comedy Club hosts its flagship showcases on Friday and Saturday nights. Expect a rolling lineup of 5 to 6 comedians back-to-back, featuring a mix of local talent and travelling acts. Dinner and show deals are available with the Barracks Hotel next door.
When: Friday 31 July and Saturday 1 August, 8:30pm
Where: Newcastle Comedy Club, 139 Maitland Rd, Islington
Tickets: Friday Tickets | Saturday Tickets
2010s Party ft. Jump
Throw it back to the 2010s at the Shoal Bay Country Club. Live band Jump will deliver a high-energy set packed with the biggest anthems from artists like Rihanna, Beyoncé, Drake, and Calvin Harris. Afterwards, DJs will keep the throwback hits spinning until late. Entry is free.
When: Saturday 1 August, from 9:00pm
Where: Shoal Bay Country Club, 35-45 Shoal Bay Rd, Shoal Bay
Tickets: Free entry - Info here
ARTS & CULTURE
Hunter Emerging Art Prize 2026
Celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Hunter Emerging Art Prize at Newcastle Artspace. The opening night event will unveil works from 66 finalists, showcasing the best emerging artistic talent from across the Hunter region. The exhibition runs until August 30th.
When: Friday 31 July, from 6:00pm
Where: Newcastle Artspace, 91 Chinchen Street, Islington
Tickets: Free entry - Info here
The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe
Step through the wardrobe and into Narnia with the Maitland Repertory Theatre’s production of the C.S. Lewis classic. Adapted by Glyn Robbins, this beloved family tale follows four children as they discover a magical, wintery world and embark on an unforgettable adventure.
When: Friday 31 July to Sunday 2 August (Various times)
Where: Maitland Repertory Theatre, 244 High Street, Maitland
Tickets: Book here
The Sound of Music
The hills are alive in Hamilton as the Young People's Theatre, in collaboration with the Lindsay Street Players, presents Rodgers and Hammerstein’s The Sound of Music. Directed by Joshua Maxwell, this timeless story of Maria and the von Trapp family is a must-see theatrical event.
When: Running until 15 August (Multiple performances this week)
Where: Young People's Theatre, Cnr Lindsay & Lawson Streets, Hamilton
Tickets: Book here
Gutsy Girls Adventure Film Tour
Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the Gutsy Girls Adventure Film Tour returns to Tower Cinemas. This two-and-a-half-hour screening features a curated selection of independent films that spotlight inspiring female adventurers from around the globe. Expect heart-pounding action and soul-stirring stories.
When: Saturday 1 August, 7:00pm
Where: Tower Cinemas Newcastle, 183-185 King St, Newcastle
Tickets: Book here
FOOD, WINE & MARKETS
Vine & Dine: Torbreck
QT Newcastle’s Jana Restaurant & Bar hosts a special Vine & Dine evening featuring Torbreck Vintners. Indulge in a five-course menu paired with multiple pours, including a side-by-side tasting of their Old Vine Shiraz (2016 vs 2023). The night also features a roaming cheese trolley.
When: Friday 31 July, 6:00pm
Where: Jana Restaurant & Bar, QT Newcastle, 185 Hunter St, Newcastle
Tickets: Book here
After Hours w/ Glandore Wines
Join the team from Glandore Wines for a Native Australian Wine Dinner at Local Connections, University of Newcastle. The evening includes a four-course degustation menu inspired by native flavours, perfectly paired with Glandore’s exceptional wines, accompanied by storytelling from the winemakers.
When: Friday 31 July, 6:00pm
Where: Local Connections, University of Newcastle, Callaghan
Tickets: Book here
Lake Mac Farmers & Artisan Market
Head to Stockland Glendale under the big white top for the weekly Lake Mac Farmers & Artisan Market. Browse stalls from local farmers, producers, and artisans offering fresh produce, gourmet food, and unique lifestyle goods.
When: Saturday 1 August, 8:00am – 2:00pm
Where: Stockland Glendale, Lake Road, Glendale
Tickets: Free entry - Info here
SPORT & COMMUNITY
Newcastle Surf Nights - Special Film Premiere & Harbour Cruise
Step aboard Newcastle Harbour’s premier super-yacht for a unique cinema experience. Featuring rare local surfing footage and the premiere screening of COOKED, starring Craig Anderson and Jordy Smith. Includes a licensed bar and stunning harbour views.
When: Friday 31 July, 7:00pm – 9:30pm
Where: MV Calmer, Queens Wharf Terminal, Newcastle
Dave Thornton - More or Less
Comedian Dave Thornton (as seen on Upper Middle Bogan) brings his brand-new hour of stand-up, More or Less, to the Civic Playhouse. Part of the Newcastle Comedy Festival, Dave tackles the small, everyday things that frustrate him in a hilarious and highly relatable show.
When: Sunday 2 August, 5:00pm
Where: Playhouse, Civic Theatre, 375 Hunter Street, Newcastle
Tickets: Book here
Top Dog Film Festival
Dog lovers, this one is for you. The Top Dog Film Festival screens over two hours of the most heartwarming, inspirational, and entertaining films about dogs and their human companions. This special screening at Tower Cinemas includes a filmmaker Q&A.
When: Sunday 2 August, 2:00pm
Where: Tower Cinemas Newcastle, 183-185 King St, Newcastle
Tickets: Book here
NEWy Comic Search Final
After weeks of heats, the Newcastle Comedy Club hosts the final of the NEWy Comic Search. Watch the region's best amateur and first-time comedians battle it out on stage for a $1,000 cash prize. It’s a great way to support emerging local talent.
When: Sunday 2 August, 7:00pm (Doors 5:00pm)
Where: Newcastle Comedy Club, 139 Maitland Rd, Islington
Tickets: Book here
Doing Great (Considering)
A true hidden gem of the Newcastle Comedy Festival, Doing Great (Considering) brings together three distinct comedic styles, sharp stand-up, offbeat storytelling, and playful performance. It’s a unique lineup show all about the struggles of keeping it together in today's world.
When: Sunday 2 August, 7:00pm
Where: Newcastle Comedy Club, 139 Maitland Rd, Islington
Tickets: Book here
LOOKING FORWARD
Newcastle Music Festival
Looking ahead to next week, the Newcastle Music Festival kicks off on August 6th. This 11-day celebration of classical and world music features an incredible lineup, including the Bach Akademie Australia, flamenco guitarist Paco Lara, and a spectacular finale featuring Mahler's First Symphony.
When: 6 – 16 August 2026
Where: Various venues, primarily Newcastle Conservatorium
Tickets: Info and booking here
Recommendation:
If The Newy List is what's on this week, Marram.com.au is the slower companion to it, a Sunday letter about the people and places that make this stretch of coast what it is.
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That's your week, Onward for next week Knights 11-6. See you out there. 🙌
The Newy List
