After nearly a year long hiatus from its usual operations as Sydney’s longest running live performance institution, the Enmore Theatre is preparing to throw open its doors once again and welcome Sydneysiders back from Monday 22 February.
Along with all other live performance venues across Sydney, the Enmore closed its doors in March due to the pandemic. With the stage dark, the venue’s owners, Century Venues, seized the opportunity to bring forward a planned restoration of the iconic Newtown venue.
The Enmore is the only theatre in Sydney from the Art Deco movement that remains in its original condition, making it imperative that the restoration works remain true to the original style.
The restoration works included reinstating the side wing balconies in accordance with the original 1936 architecture, a full renovation of the elaborate art deco ceiling and its intricate lighting design, reinstatement of the original 24 metre art deco bomber light and upgrades to the building’s fire safety protection.
The new works also saw the installment of two and a half kilometres of state-of-the-art LED strip lighting. The lighting can be computer programmed to synchronise with an artist or band’s performance resulting in a spectacular visual experience for the audience.
On Monday 22 February, the Enmore will re-open its doors in style with Sounds of Sydney Re-opening Night Gala, featuring a mix of local artists and national treasures including Ian Moss, Tim Freedman, Choirboys, Alex the Astronaut, Red Riders plus more to be announced.
The gala will be a celebration of Sydney with artists performing a mix of original songs alongside covers by Sydney artists or of their favourite song about the city. All ticketing proceeds from the night will be donated to the Australian music charity, Support Act.
COO of Century Venues, Sam Nardo, said, “We can’t wait to welcome people back to the Enmore. While we were devastated by the impact of COVID-19 on our business and the industry, we’re pleased we could utilise the time to restore the Enmore to its original glory and take it to the next level.’
‘The Enmore has hosted some of the world’s most iconic artists and created lifelong memories for artists, promoters and punters alike,’ continued Nardo. ‘I encourage everyone to come along and help us celebrate our re-opening – it’s going to be big!”
Built in 1908, the Enmore has long enjoyed a rich and colourful history including as a photo play theatre, a cinema and most recently, as a much-loved live performance hub. For over a century it has played a key part in bringing the local community together for reasons spanning entertainment, activism and celebration.
Renowned artists that have graced the Enmore stage include musicians Bob Dylan, The Rolling Stones, Grace Jones and Pink, as well as comedians Joan Rivers, Jason Alexander and Trevor Noah to name a few.
What: Sounds of Sydney Re-opening Night Gala
When: 7.30pm on Monday 22 February
Where: The Enmore Theatre, 118-132 Enmore Rd, Newtown
Tickets: $55 via www.enmoretheatre.com.au
Featured image – Tim Freedman 2021