Brisbane Powerhouse, Brisbane

Brisbane Powerhouse, situated in Jagera Country, serves as Queensland's hub for modern culture and arts. This former 1920s power station, now transformed into an arts center, sits along the Brisbane River (Maiwar). Annually, the Brisbane Powerhouse hosts over 1,250 performances and events. Their diverse offerings include music, theater, comedy, dance, film, visual arts, dialogues, and digital arts.

The transition of the Powerhouse from a power station to a center for avant-garde art reflects a rich history. Its industrial aesthetic, characterized by red brick exteriors, steel beams, a gantry, a generator, and concrete floors, harkens back to the era when Brisbane was served by a vibrant tram system. During the early to mid-1900s, the Powerhouse was instrumental in extending the tram network and providing power and lighting to Toowong, Ithaca, and Yeerongpilly suburbs.

The Powerhouse originally received coal via river and rail, using it to boil water and produce steam. This steam powered turbines to generate electricity. The tramway ceased operations in 1971, marking the beginning of the Powerhouse's decline before its rebirth as a cultural center.

The venue boasts two primary stage theaters, three additional performance spaces, gallery areas, two restaurants and bars (Bar Alto and Mary Mae’s Bar + Kitchen), a retail store, corporate amenities, and impressive views of the Brisbane River.

Brisbane Powerhouse is also known for organizing major festivals and events like the Brisbane Comedy Festival, MELT Festival, OHM Festival of Other Music, and Night Feast.