Wharf Theatre

The Wharf Theatre is a great venue for live theatre shows in a historic heritage site overlooking the harbour

Panoramic view of the Wharf Theatre from an adjacent pier
Panoramic view of the Wharf Theatre from an adjacent pier cc licensed photo by Dave Keeshan

The Wharf Theatre, home to the Sydney Theatre Company, is situated on Pier 4/5 on Welsh Bay close the south end of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The Company also operates the Sydney Theatre located just west across the road from Pier 6/7. Between these venues there are anywhere from 1 to 5 live performances happening every day.

In the 1970s Pier 4/5 in Welsh bay was a neglected old industrial warehouse. In 1984 the Wharf Theatre opened after nearly 4 million dollars were poured into restoring and refurbishing the 1919 warehouse. In the last few years there have been many more upgrades to make the entire building environmentally friendly (See the video). The end result is two superb venues for live theatre and also the Wharf Restaurant which has balconies offering great views on either side.

The two theatres are designated Wharf 1 and Wharf 2. Wharf 1 is located at the far end of the wharf and can seat an audience of up to 324 people. The Wharf restaurant is also located at this end. Wharf 2 Theatre is located about mid-way along the wharf and can seat up to 200.

If you don't have a chance to take in a show at one of these theatres you can still enjoy a one hour behind the scenes tour for a nominal charge. Tours are available every Tuesday at 10:30am.

Facts For Your Visit

Fee: Yes

Wharf Theatre Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays

  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Thursday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Friday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Saturday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Sunday: 1:45 – 5:30 PM

Address: 15 Hickson Rd, Dawes Point NSW 2000, Australia

Phone: (02) 9250 1777

Official Website: Wharf Theatre

Wharf Theatre Reviews

Rated 4.6 out of 5 Star Rating

4 Star Rating Went to see 'Into the Shimmering World' at the STC yesterday - great production, well acted and very touching at times. Also had drinks on the terrace before the show, sitting outside in the balmy evening, looking at Luna Park, Wharf 2/3 and the harbour bridge climbers. Beautiful.
Ian Ross - 4 months ago

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5 Star Rating Beautiful modern theatre on a historic wharf. The facilities are clean and minimalist. Seating is fantastic, tiered so excellent uninterrupted view to the stage. Parking available on Hickson Road. Elevator access from the wharf to the elevator. The box office located near entry point at street and the theatre is located at the end of the wharf.
Niki Vasiliadis - 2 years ago

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5 Star Rating A big shout out to the front of house staff at the Wharf Theatre. I have recently had an ankle reconstruction and using crutches. I rang ahead to organise a wheelchair and ticket changes. I was absolutely delighted by the service, care and consideration given to me tonight. Thank you so much!
mamie mclean - 3 months ago

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5 Star Rating We really saw Into the Shimmering Light. It was our first play at this venue - its size and staging made the whole experience so immersive, plus the acting was truly excellent. We will definitely be back for another play and can highly recommend this high quality live theatre experience.
Marg Baird - 5 months ago

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5 Star Rating We saw Madama Butterfly there...it was raining, but everyone mostly wore poncho raincoats. It will be great to have a covered venue one day. However, it was a fabulous venue with a difference and spectacular views over Sydney Harbour and Opera House. We got aboard a water taxi, which apparently is cheaper at $15 (2023), just for these shows, to go across the Harbour to Circular Quay. A long line for taxi's, but they coped well under the circumstances these days with staff shortages, etc. The volunteers helping for the Theatre Company did a fantastic job. Thanks.
Jan Spicer - a year ago

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Directions

Line Nearest Station Walking Time
L2, T2, T3, T8 or FerryCircular Quay15 minutes

How to get to Wharf Theatre by

By Train or Ferry: For this attraction, walking is the most practical option, providing you are okay with stairs. Exit at Circular Quay Station and walk north along the waterfront in front of the Museum of Contemporary Art. Immediately after the museum, head west through the small park to George Street and follow it to your right. Go right again when you get to Lower Fort Street. Continue, watching for the flight of stairs immediately past the second set of row houses. Take the long flight of stairs down to Hickson Road, cross over and go left (west) to the Sydney Theatre Company entrance.

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