Brisbane Powerhouse: A Must-Visit Destination for Arts and Culture Lovers

Are you looking for a place to enjoy the best of arts and culture in Brisbane? Look no further than Brisbane Powerhouse, the city’s premier venue for theatre, music, comedy, dance, film, visual arts, festivals, and ideas. Located in a stunning heritage-listed building on the banks of the Brisbane River, Brisbane Powerhouse offers a variety of events and activities for all ages and interests, as well as a range of facilities and services to make your visit comfortable and memorable.

Whether you want to catch a show, explore the history, dine by the river, or host a function, Brisbane Powerhouse has something for everyone. In this article, we will guide you through everything you need to know about Brisbane Powerhouse, from how to get there and what to do, to when to go and where to stay. Read on to discover why Brisbane Powerhouse is a must-visit destination for arts and culture lovers.

Events and Activities

One of the main reasons to visit Brisbane Powerhouse is to experience the amazing events and activities that it hosts throughout the year. Brisbane Powerhouse is home to some of the most exciting and diverse local, national, and international artists and performers, who showcase their talents and creativity in various genres and formats. Whether you are into theatre, music, comedy, dance, film, visual arts, festivals, or ideas, you will find something that suits your taste and mood at Brisbane Powerhouse.

Some of the featured events that you can look forward to in the coming months include:

The Illusionists: Direct from Broadway: A spectacular show featuring seven of the world’s most incredible illusionists, who will dazzle you with their mind-blowing tricks and stunts. Prepare to be amazed and entertained by this thrilling and mesmerizing performance. (January 23 - February 9, 2024)

Brisbane Comedy Festival: A hilarious celebration of comedy, featuring some of the biggest names and rising stars of the Australian and international comedy scene. Laugh out loud with stand-up, improv, sketch, musical, and cabaret acts, as well as workshops, podcasts, and special events. (February 21 - March 22, 2024)

WOW Australia: A festival of women, art, and activism, celebrating the achievements and aspirations of women and girls from diverse backgrounds and cultures. Enjoy inspiring talks, workshops, performances, exhibitions, and networking opportunities, and join the global movement of women of the world. (March 6 - 8, 2024)

Knockoff: A weekly comedy show featuring some of the best local and national comedians, who will make you laugh with their fresh and funny material. Catch them every Friday at 6 pm at the Turbine Platform, and start your weekend with a smile. (Every Friday)

Livespark: A weekly live music show featuring some of the best emerging and established musicians, who will entertain you with their original and diverse sounds. Catch them every Sunday at 3.30 pm at the Turbine Platform, and enjoy a relaxing afternoon by the river. (Every Sunday)

Powerkids: Little Artists at Play: A weekly creative play session for children aged 0-5 and their parents or carers, who can explore, experiment, and express themselves through various art forms and activities. Join them every Tuesday at 9 am at the Graffiti Room, and nurture your child’s imagination and curiosity. (Every Tuesday)

History and Heritage

Another reason to visit Brisbane Powerhouse is to learn about its history and heritage, and how it reflects the history and identity of Brisbane. Brisbane Powerhouse is not just a venue for arts and culture, but also a historical and architectural landmark that has a rich and fascinating story to tell.

Brisbane Powerhouse was originally built in 1927 as a power station, and was one of the first in Queensland to supply electricity to the city. It was a vital part of Brisbane’s industrial and economic development, and powered the city’s trams, trains, and street lights. It was also a hub of innovation and experimentation, and hosted some of the earliest radio broadcasts and television transmissions in Australia.

However, by the 1970s, Brisbane Powerhouse became obsolete and redundant, and was decommissioned and abandoned. It was left to decay and deteriorate, and became a haunt for squatters, graffiti artists, and urban explorers. It was also threatened by demolition and redevelopment, and faced an uncertain future.

Thankfully, in the 1990s, Brisbane Powerhouse was saved and transformed into an arts and cultural hub, thanks to the vision and efforts of the Brisbane City Council and the local community. It was renovated and restored, while retaining and respecting its original features and character. It reopened in 2000, and since then, has become one of the most popular and prestigious venues for arts and culture in Brisbane and Australia.

Today, Brisbane Powerhouse is a proud and prominent symbol of Brisbane’s history and identity, and a testament to its resilience and creativity. It is a place where the past and the present, the industrial and the artistic, the local and the global, coexist and collaborate. It is a place where you can experience the power of arts and culture, and the power of Brisbane.

If you want to explore and discover the history and heritage of Brisbane Powerhouse, you can join one of the tours that are offered regularly. You can choose from:

Location and Facilities

The third reason to visit Brisbane Powerhouse is to enjoy its location and facilities, and make the most of your visit. Brisbane Powerhouse is situated in a stunning location on the banks of the Brisbane River, in the suburb of New Farm. It is surrounded by beautiful parklands, gardens, and bike paths, and offers spectacular views of the river and the city skyline. It is also easily accessible by car, bus, ferry, or bike, and has plenty of parking and bike racks available.

Brisbane Powerhouse also has a range of facilities and services to make your visit comfortable and memorable. Whether you want to dine by the river, have a drink at the bar, shop at the markets, or host a function, Brisbane Powerhouse has something for you. Some of the facilities and services that you can enjoy at Brisbane Powerhouse are:

Dining:

Brisbane Powerhouse has three dining options to suit your taste and budget. You can choose from:

Bar Alto: A modern Italian restaurant that serves delicious dishes made with fresh and seasonal ingredients, such as pasta, pizza, salads, and desserts. You can also enjoy a selection of wines, beers, cocktails, and coffee, while admiring the views of the river and the Powerhouse. Bar Alto is open for lunch and dinner from Wednesday to Sunday, and for brunch on weekends. You can make a reservation online or by phone. (Level 1, open Wed-Sun 11.30 am - late, Sat-Sun 8.30 am - late)

Mary Mae’s: A casual and cosy cafe and bar that serves tasty snacks and meals, such as burgers, sandwiches, salads, and cakes. You can also enjoy a variety of drinks, such as juices, smoothies, teas, coffees, and alcoholic beverages. Mary Mae’s is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day, and for live music and events on weekends. You can order online or by phone, or just walk in. (Level 2, open Mon-Fri 7 am - late, Sat-Sun 8 am - late)

Watt: A stylish and sophisticated restaurant and bar that serves exquisite dishes and drinks, such as seafood, steaks, salads, and desserts. You can also enjoy a range of wines, beers, cocktails, and spirits, while overlooking the river and the park. Watt is open for lunch and dinner from Tuesday to Sunday, and for functions and events on request. You can book a table online or by phone, or hire a space for your special occasion. (River Level, open Tue-Sun 11.30 am - late)

Bar:

Brisbane Powerhouse has three bar options to suit your mood and occasion. You can choose from:

Powerhouse Bar: A lively and vibrant bar that offers a wide selection of drinks, such as beers, wines, ciders, cocktails, and spirits. You can also enjoy some snacks and nibbles, such as chips, nuts, and cheese. Powerhouse Bar is open before and after the shows, and for functions and events on request. You can order at the bar or by phone, or book a space for your party or gathering. (Level 1, open show nights only)

Rooftop Terrace: A scenic and serene bar that offers a stunning view of the river and the city. You can also enjoy some drinks and snacks, such as beers, wines, soft drinks, and popcorn. Rooftop Terrace is open for selected shows and performances, and for functions and events on request. You can order at the bar or by phone, or hire the venue for your wedding or celebration. (Level 3, open selected show nights only)

Turbine Platform: A cool and creative bar that offers a unique and eclectic atmosphere. You can also enjoy some drinks and snacks, such as beers, wines, cocktails, and pizzas. Turbine Platform is open for selected shows and performances, and for functions and events on request. You can order at the bar or by phone, or book the space for your function or event. (Level 1, open selected show nights only)

Markets:

Brisbane Powerhouse hosts two markets that are held regularly on its grounds. You can choose from:

Jan Powers Farmers Markets: A market that features fresh and local produce, such as fruits, vegetables, bread, cheese, meat, seafood, and flowers. You can also enjoy some gourmet food and drinks, such as coffee, juice, pastries, and pies. Jan Powers Farmers Markets are held every Saturday from 6 am to 12 pm, and are a great way to start your weekend with some healthy and delicious shopping. (Powerhouse Plaza, every Saturday 6 am - 12 pm)

Suitcase Rummage: A market that features vintage and handmade goods, such as clothing, accessories, jewellery, books, and art. You can also enjoy some live music and entertainment, as well as some food and drinks from the nearby cafes and bars. Suitcase Rummage is held on the first and third Sunday of every month from 11 am to 4 pm, and is a great way to find some unique and quirky bargains. (Powerhouse Plaza, first and third Sunday of every month 11 am - 4 pm)

Weddings:

Brisbane Powerhouse is a perfect venue for your wedding, as it offers a range of options and packages to suit your style and budget. You can choose from:

Riverbend Terrace: A spacious and elegant terrace that overlooks the river and the park. You can host your ceremony and reception here, and enjoy the views and the breeze. Riverbend Terrace can accommodate up to 200 guests for a cocktail-style event, or up to 120 guests for a sit-down event. You can also choose from a variety of catering and beverage options, as well as entertainment and decoration options. (Level 2, capacity 200 cocktail / 120 sit-down)

Rooftop Terrace: A scenic and serene terrace that offers a stunning view of the river and the city. You can host your ceremony and reception here, and enjoy the sunset and the stars. Rooftop Terrace can accommodate up to 150 guests for a cocktail-style event, or up to 80 guests for a sit-down event. You can also choose from a variety of catering and beverage options, as well as entertainment and decoration options. (Level 3, capacity 150 cocktail / 80 sit-down)

Stores Studio: A cosy and intimate studio that offers a rustic and industrial vibe. You can host your ceremony and reception here, and enjoy the charm and character of the space. Stores Studio can accommodate up to 100 guests for a cocktail-style event, or up to 60 guests for a sit-down event. You can also choose from a variety of catering and beverage options, as well as entertainment and decoration options. (River Level, capacity 100 cocktail / 60 sit-down)

Functions:

Brisbane Powerhouse is also a ideal venue for your function, as it offers a range of options and packages to suit your purpose and budget. You can choose from:

Powerhouse Theatre: A large and versatile theatre that can host a variety of events, such as conferences, seminars, presentations, launches, awards, and performances. You can also enjoy the state-of-the-art sound and lighting system, as well as the backstage and dressing room facilities. Powerhouse Theatre can accommodate up to 740 guests for a theatre-style event, or up to 500 guests for a cocktail-style event. You can also choose from a variety of catering and beverage options, as well as entertainment and decoration options. (Level 2, capacity 740 theatre / 500 cocktail)

Visy Theatre: A small and intimate theatre that can host a variety of events, such as workshops, meetings, lectures, screenings, and shows. You can also enjoy the flexible seating and staging options, as well as the technical and audio-visual equipment. Visy Theatre can accommodate up to 200 guests for a theatre-style event, or up to 150 guests for a cocktail-style event. You can also choose from a variety of catering and beverage options, as well as entertainment and decoration options. (Level 1, capacity 200 theatre / 150 cocktail)

Graffiti Room: A funky and colourful room that can host a variety of events, such as parties, receptions, networking, and exhibitions. You can also enjoy the graffiti and mural art that covers the walls, as well as the natural light and ventilation. Graffiti Room can accommodate up to 120 guests for a cocktail-style event, or up to 80 guests for a sit-down event. You can also choose from a variety of catering and beverage options, as well as entertainment and decoration options. (Level 1, capacity 120 cocktail / 80 sit-down)

Tours:

Brisbane Powerhouse also offers tours that can enhance your visit and your function. You can choose from:

Behind the Scenes Tour: A tour that takes you behind the scenes of Brisbane Powerhouse, and shows you how it operates as a venue for arts and culture. You will see the backstage areas, the dressing rooms, the technical equipment, and the hidden spaces, and learn about the production and management of the events and activities. This tour is ideal for groups who are interested in the workings of Brisbane Powerhouse, or who are attending or hosting an event or function there. (Every Saturday at 10 am, $15 per person, minimum 10 people, maximum 20 people, bookings essential)

Heritage Tour: A tour that takes you through the history and heritage of Brisbane Powerhouse, and shows you how it evolved from a power station to an arts and cultural hub. You will see the original features, the architecture, the design, and the art, and learn about the stories and people behind them. This tour is ideal for groups who are interested in the history and heritage of Brisbane Powerhouse, or who are visiting or staying in the area. (Every Sunday at 11 am, free of charge, no bookings required)

Art Tour: A tour that takes you through the art and culture of Brisbane Powerhouse, and shows you the diverse and dynamic artworks and exhibitions that are displayed throughout the building. You will see the permanent and temporary artworks, the graffiti and murals, and the installations and sculptures, and learn about the artists and themes behind them. This tour is ideal for groups who are interested in the art and culture of Brisbane Powerhouse, or who are looking for some inspiration and creativity. (Every Sunday at 12 pm, free of charge, no bookings required)

When to Go and Where to Stay

The last reason to visit Brisbane Powerhouse is to enjoy its timing and location, and make the most of your trip. Brisbane Powerhouse is open all year round, and there is always something happening to suit your schedule and preference. However, if you want to experience the best of Brisbane Powerhouse, you may want to consider some factors, such as:

Seasons:

Brisbane has a subtropical climate, with warm and humid summers, and mild and dry winters. The average temperature ranges from 21°C to 29°C in summer, and from 11°C to 21°C in winter. The wettest months are from December to March, and the driest months are from June to September. You may want to avoid the peak summer months, as they can be very hot and rainy, and opt for the spring or autumn months, as they can be more pleasant and comfortable.

Events:

Brisbane Powerhouse hosts a variety of events and activities throughout the year, and you may want to plan your visit according to your interests and preferences. You may want to check the event calendar and see what is happening during your visit, and book your tickets in advance. You may also want to check the special events and festivals that are held at Brisbane Powerhouse, such as Brisbane Comedy Festival, WOW Australia, and Wonderland Festival, and join the fun and excitement.

Crowds:

Brisbane Powerhouse can get very busy and crowded during the weekends, holidays, and peak seasons, and you may want to avoid the crowds and queues, and enjoy a more relaxed and peaceful visit. You may want to visit during the weekdays, early mornings, or late evenings, and enjoy a more spacious and quiet atmosphere. You may also want to book your tickets, tables, and spaces in advance, and avoid the hassle and disappointment.

If you are planning to stay overnight or longer in Brisbane, you may also want to consider some accommodation options near Brisbane Powerhouse. There are plenty of hotels, motels, hostels, and apartments to suit your budget and style, and you can enjoy the convenience and proximity to Brisbane Powerhouse and other attractions and services in the city. Some of the accommodation options near Brisbane Powerhouse are:

Spicers Balfour Hotel:

A boutique hotel that offers luxury and comfort, with stylish and spacious rooms, suites, and penthouses, equipped with modern amenities and facilities, such as air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, TV, minibar, and coffee machine. You can also enjoy the rooftop bar and restaurant, the library, the spa, and the gym, as well as the complimentary breakfast, parking, and shuttle service. Spicers Balfour Hotel is located in New Farm, just a 10-minute walk from Brisbane Powerhouse, and a 10-minute drive from the city centre. (37 Balfour Street, New Farm, from $249 per night)

Bowen Terrace Accommodation:

A guesthouse that offers value and convenience, with cosy and clean rooms, studios, and apartments, equipped with basic amenities and facilities, such as air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, TV, fridge, and microwave. You can also enjoy the outdoor pool, the garden, the barbecue area, and the laundry, as well as the shared kitchen, lounge, and bathroom. Bowen Terrace Accommodation is located in New Farm, just a 15-minute walk from Brisbane Powerhouse, and a 15-minute drive from the city centre. (365 Bowen Terrace, New Farm, from $69 per night)

Brisbane City YHA:

A hostel that offers fun and social, with comfortable and colourful dorms and private rooms, equipped with essential amenities and facilities, such as air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, lockers, and linen. You can also enjoy the rooftop pool, the bar, the cafe, and the games room, as well as the shared kitchen, lounge, and bathroom. Brisbane City YHA is located in the city centre, just a 20-minute bus ride from Brisbane Powerhouse, and a 10-minute walk from the Central Station. (392 Upper Roma Street, Brisbane City, from $32 per night)

Hope this article helps you plan your visit to Brisbane Powerhouse, and enjoy the best of arts and culture in Brisbane. If you have any questions or feedback, please let us know in the comments.