The International Convention Centre Sydney has unveiled plans for its new entertainment hub, with just one year to go until it opens its doors in Darling Harbour.
According to ICC Sydney chief executive Geoff Donaghy, the new precinct will be the “first of its kind in Australia”. It will include three theatres and a range of bars and restaurants all within easy walking distance of the Sydney CBD and a variety of transport options.
“When ICC Sydney opens, the city will experience a real paradigm shift in how it enjoys events, with a multitude of dynamic venues opening within an integrated precinct that includes the best in pre and post gig entertaining,” he said.
“From concerts with beloved Aussie performers or major international acts, to dance productions, plays, poetry and comedy, ICC Sydney will be a must-visit location for all entertainment lovers.”
At the heart of the “ultramodern” hub will be the 8,000-seat ICC Sydney Theatre. The tiered and fan-shaped venue will be able to be scaled down to capacity for 3,000 people and up to more than 9,000 people.
Meanwhile, the Darling Harbour Theatre and Pyrmont Theatre will host more “intimate” events, with tiered seating for 2,500 and 1,000 guests respectively.
In addition, there will be a 5,000 square metre open air event deck, a 2,400 square metre multipurpose event space, a 2,000 seat ballroom and seven exhibition halls which will “fold into” Tumbalong Park. The park itself will also be expanded by 3,000 square metres.
“All venues will have world class staging and technical facilities, with sound and visuals brought to life through high definition screens, large scale projection and superior audio equipment,” Donaghy said.
“By offering the ultimate entertainment experience, we hope to reinforce Sydney’s reputation as one of the most desirable destinations in the world. And with ICC Sydney at its heart, the future of entertainment in Sydney certainly looks bright.”
Destination NSW chief executive Sandra Chipchase highlighted the opportunities offered by the new precinct for event planners.
“ICC Sydney’s world class facilities and integrated approach to the use of public space is truly ground-breaking and shows that NSW is at the global forefront of event and entertainment innovation,” she said.
