The Zoo Unveils 30th Anniversary Party Line-up

The Zoo will blow out 30 candles this December — and blow away music fans with a special anniversary program featuring over 100 artists and “a few mystery guests.”

The full lineup, announced Wednesday (Oct. 12), including a Punkfest event; Jazz On A Sunday Vibe, programmed by Katie Noonan and Zac Hurren; a lineup of Airlock artists, assembled by homegrown guitarist Ian Haug (Powderfinger, The Church); an exhibition of photographs and memorabilia captured and collected over the past three decades, and much more.

Since opening its doors for the first time on Dec. 11, 1992 in Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley, the live venue has hosted performances from the likes of The Pixies, Silverchair, The Black Keys, Lorde, Ben Harper and Nick Cave and The Dirty Three.

Back in the day, punters at the site, a space upstairs on Ann Street, were provided with a light meal, rolled into the price of entry.

Today, it’s recognised as one of Australia’s longest-running live music venues, and a cornerstone to the Valley entertainment precinct.

To celebrate its 30th year in business, the Zoo team reunites with co-founder Joc Curran to curate eight events honoring the room’s legacy.

“30 years ago in December 1992, myself and C Smith opened a venue with the help and support of our community; our families, local artists, musicians, tradies, and even the government did their bit to help us open the doors,” Curran comments.

“We came together to create The Zoo. We started as a simple BYO café where art adorned the walls and music flowed through the open windows.”

The Zoo

Investment has enabled The Zoo to retool and evolve over time.

The stage is larger, the room is air-conditioned, its liquor license is extended to 3:00 am, and the venue is now operated by co-owners Cat Clarke and Luke “Boo” Johnston and their partner Shane Chidgzey.

“The Zoo is an incredibly special place, you feel it the minute you walk through the doors,” Clark and Johnston comment in a statement.

“Over 30 years it has become a live music institution for Brisbane that means so much to so many. We really wanted to give The Zoo the 30th celebration she deserves, so when Joc agreed to come on board to co-program we knew we could deliver something truly magical, we’re so grateful for her involvement over the past year.”

The bill “has a little something for everyone along with a few surprises along the way,” they say, “and we can’t wait to see everyone in December for a bloody good time.”

Ball Park Music

“Helping program the 30th celebrations with Cat and Boo has been a complete honour and privilege,” adds Curran.

“I have been reflective in my choices and reached out to many original collaborators who have travelled with us on this journey. The 30th events are very much based on what The Zoo still stands for; supporting local music and art, community, and everybody is always welcome.”

The celebrations kick off Friday Dec. 2 with an evening curated by A Love Supreme, and featuring Italian duo Nu Genea, Brazil’s Bárbara Boeing and others.

Visit TheZoo.com.au for more.