As the 50th anniversary of the dismissal of prime minister Gough Whitlam looms, Shortis and Simpson have something to say (and sing) about it. HELEN MUSA reports on this and other events in this week’s Arts in the City column. 

John Shortis and Moya Simpson – Shortis and Simpson – have been busy interpolating themselves into a famous photo to promote their show Well May We Say, marking the 50th anniversary of Gough Whitlam’s Dismissal, their musical reflection on Australian politics. Belconnen Arts Centre, November 8.

The Canberra dance group Somebody’s Aunt presents HomeGround, a work showcasing two years of creative development and 20 years of dance practice that explores the meaning of “home” through movement, country and belonging. QL2 Theatre, Gorman Arts Centre, November 1-2.

Nine schools have registered for the 16th annual Come Alive Festival of Museum Theatre, now in its 16th year. The student-led festival, directed by Peter Wilkins, showcases creative interpretations of history from the participating schools. Each day, a video from a parallel museum theatre festival in Greece will be screened. Joe Woodward Theatre, Daramalan College, November 4-7.

A poetic pairing of Shakespeare’s sonnets with baroque music performed by Apeiron Baroque and guest artist, actor and drama academic Duncan Driver, featuring works by Purcell, Tartini and Geminiani. Wesley Uniting Church, Forrest, November 2.

Conductor Jessica Cottis leads the Canberra Symphony Orchestra in Holst’s massive work The Planets alongside Benjamin de Murashkin’s LOGOS and Josef Strauss’s Music of the Spheres Waltzes. Llewellyn Hall, November 5-6.

Virtuoso bassist and bandleader Leigh Barker, now based in Paris, returns home for his November jazz tour promoting a new album and will play an intimate night of world-class jazz. Smith’s Alternative, November 8.

A free community celebration marks 150 years since the opening of the Gunning Railway Station and the second birthday of Connect@Gunning Station, featuring local music, stalls, and history displays. Gunning Railway Station, Gunning, November 2.

Returning with the theme Dissent, next year’s Craft + Design Canberra Festival invites artists to participate in 10 days of creative dialogue. Major Project applications close on December 3, while Smaller Project applications will remain open until April 1 at craftanddesigncanberra.org 

The inaugural ACT Brass Solo and Party Championships will see musicians of all ages compete in solo and ensemble categories, with expert adjudication and prizes. St Mary MacKillop College, Wanniassa, November 2. Entries to canberrabrass.org.au