Two teams of heavy-hitters go head-to-head in the annual Beaker Street Festival debate, taking sides on the fate of humanity in a world of Artificial Intelligence.

Be entertained, persuaded, and enthralled by a battle of brains and bravado! The team that gets the rowdiest applause takes the coveted Tip Shop Trophy. This annual festival favourite will be chaired by ABC Radio National’s Natasha Mitchell, and recorded for broadcast on the Big Ideas program.

Immediately following this performance, the audience and speakers will be invited across the street to Beaker Street’s Festival Hub at the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, featuring delicious food and drink, live music, science/art exhibitions, 150+ scientists to chat with, and more!

Beaker Street Festival

Theatre Royal events

Full program

A Seat at the Table

Beaker Street Festival's "A Seat at the Table" program helps make events accessible to members of our community who can't afford to purchase a ticket. Ticket buyers have the option to donate towards the cost of a stranger's ticket, allowing someone else to access this great event. If you'd like to donate, you can do so at checkout.

If you’d like to request one or two free tickets, please contact Beaker Street here. You'll be notified by email if a seat is available.