NEW BAR AT SYDNEY THEATRE COMPANY
The Bar at the End of the Wharf
22 Hickson Rd, Walsh Bay NSW 2000
(02) 9250 1761 or www.sydneytheatre.com.au/visit/thebar
Sydney Theatre Company has launched its new bar and dining space, named The Bar at the End of the Wharf. Situated at the ‘deep end’ of the historic Wharf building at Walsh Bay, which has been the home base of STC for almost 30 years, the new bar is designed by STC Resident Designer Alice Babidge. It’s a relaxed, comfortable, affordable drinking and dining environment for theatre-goers, local workers and residents as well as a ‘home’ for the STC’s artists and staff to gather, collaborate, eat and drink. Open throughout the day, The Bar at the End of the Wharf will also offer post show dining, playing to Sydney’s growing late night hospitality scene.
“The Bar at the End of The Wharf will undoubtedly improve the experience for everyone who comes to STC, whether they’re seeing a show, attending a rehearsal, having a meeting or just hanging out at one of Sydney’s most beautiful spaces,” said STC Artistic Directors Andrew Upton and Cate Blanchett. “We look forward to many great and good times there.”
Babidge, who has designed many STC shows throughout the last seven years, has used her familiarity with the space to bring the focus back to the existing aesthetic of the former industrial space, enhancing the heritage-listed site’s extraordinary natural light and strong timber features. Local designers and craftspeople have created bespoke furniture and light fittings, while ‘found objects’ and recycled materials feature as part of the design as well.
The unique view of the harbour will be maximized with bar stool seating facing the water, and the use of the large balconies for games, music and seating.
Seating will accommodate a range of experiences – communal tables will allow larger groups to comfortably share food and drinks, lounges and armchairs will encourage relaxing and smaller tables will allow for more intimate dining experiences.
Handed over to STC in 1984, The Wharf, situated at Pier 4/5 Walsh Bay, was formerly a working pier that is now home to a range of arts companies including STC, Sydney Dance Company and Bangarra Dance Theatre.