Author(s): Joanne Scott

Art, Design & Photography | Secondhand

Showtime captures the history, colour and life of a significant event in Queensland history: Brisbane's annual show, popularly known as the 'Ekka'. First held in 1876, the Brisbane Exhibition is Queensland's premier annual event and one of the largest annual events in Australia. Showtime explores everything from the entertainment and food of the main ring and sideshow alley to what it's like to work at the 'Ekka' and what happens when the 'country comes to town'. With research drawn from records of the Royal National Association from 1875 onwards, published and unpublished government sources, newspapers, memoirs, interviews, photographs, films and artefacts, Showtime offers an illustrated and in-depth look at a much-loved event in Queensland. Wonderful anecdotal and personal stories feature alongside the broader history. Through the window of the 'Ekka', Showtime provides a fascinating sense of Queensland's history and development over time.