The Brisbane Powerhouse is one of Australia's most progressive contemporary arts centres. It borders the Heritage-listed New Farm Park and moonlights as a venue for art exhibitions, theatre shows, live music concerts and comedy acts. The "black box" Powerhouse Theatre is the centre's signature venue, while the smaller Visy Theatre is an intimate performance space.
Only a few decades ago the Brisbane Powerhouse was a derelict pre-war industrial power station, but today it’s been reimagined as a dynamic contemporary arts centre. The redbrick facade has been painstakingly restored, while the interior has been decorated with colourful graffiti, industrial machinery and imaginative lighting.
Arrive early to enjoy a meal at one of the riverside restaurants. Bar Alto serves authentic Italian fare and features an impressive wine list. WATT offers casual Australian cuisine, craft cocktails and stunning river views. Visit on Saturdays to catch the Jan Powers Farmers Markets, where you can pick up farm-fresh produce from across Brisbane.
Getting there
The Brisbane Powerhouse is set on New Farm Park, a 10-minute drive or 30-minute bus ride from Brisbane’s city centre. CityCat ferries run to the New Farm Park CityCat Jetty, a 400-metre walk from the Brisbane Powerhouse.