2026 Summer Gala Soiree

Join the Friends of the Academy for an outdoor concert on 25th January 2026 to raise funds to benefit WAAPA students.

Now in its 6th year, this annual concert on the Australia Day long weekend showcases local West Australian talent in a rustic Australiana setting while fundraising to assist the graduating class of WAAPA students. Set on the grounds of the heritage-listed Woodbridge at Mandoon in Guildford, using Freeze Frame Opera's truck as a stage, concert goers relax with a picnic-style dinner while they enjoy a world-class performance of light opera and music theatre as the sun sets.

The concert is family-friendly picnic style: BYO blanket, chairs (preferably low), food and drink. A coffee van will be on site to provide hot and cold drinks.

The concert commences at 5.00 pm, after the heat of the day, and concludes by 7.00 pm to not make it a late night for those who work the following day.

You can help us offset our costs - and maximise the number of grants we can help give to WAAPA students - by adding a small donation to your ticket purchase. Alternatively, you can make a tax deductible donation or become a sponsor through the Australian Cultural Fund.