The Cutaway Opens In Barangaroo As Sydney’s Newest Arts & Cultural Space

Sydney’s newest arts, culture and events space has been unveiled today at Barangaroo, transforming an abandoned concrete shell below the Reserve into a venue ready to host some of the country’s biggest events.

The Cutaway is purpose-built for live music, theatre, art installations and festivals, with multiple exhibition spaces, commercial kitchen, ticketing office, dressing rooms and green rooms, able to accomodate up to 3,000 people. Two layers of glass separated by an air pocket will improve acoustics and enhance natural light while delivering high-quality sound suitable for premium music and major events.

Premier Chris Minns said the new space joins the Opera House as one of Sydney Harbour’s great cultural and event locations.

“This extraordinary space is unlike anything else in Australia—deeply connected to Sydney, architecturally striking and built to host major events that draw visitors, investment and creative talent to our city.

The Cutaway will be permitted to operate 24/7, after Planning Minister Paul Scully intervened when noise complaints from local residents briefly halted plans.

The $100 million venue has direct access to Barangaroo Metro Station, connecting communities in North West and South West Sydney in an easy 30 minute trip. 

Set to undergo final event preparations over the coming months, the Cutaway will celebrate its opening in May with a free weekend of events and access to the new gallery spaces, workshops, and tours. It’s expected to host the National Indigenous Fair in July, and both Sydney Festival and VIVID in years to come.

“The Cutaway provides Sydney something much-needed: a large‑scale, flexible, indoor cultural venue capable of supporting everything from live performances to festivals, art installations and community gatherings,” said arts, music, and night-time economy minister John Graham.

“The space is so well-positioned by Sydney Harbour and so well-connected to the nearby Barangaroo Metro Station. It will be a very welcome boost for the creative industries and the night-time and visitor economies.”