Sydney Scores A Stunning New Live Music Venue, 'Liberty Hall' Set To Open In October

18 July 2022 | 8:55 am | Brenton Harris

Liberty Hall will occupy the space that was once home to The Forum, Hi-Fi and, most recently, Max Watt's.

Jake Smyth and Kenny Graham of Mary's Group

Jake Smyth and Kenny Graham of Mary's Group (Tom Wilkinson)

Sydney's Entertainment Quarter will soon be home to Liberty Hall, a new 1200-capacity, live music venue. 

Located opposite the iconic Hordern Pavilion and within the newly energised Entertainment Quarter, Liberty Hall arrives amidst a context of great optimism in the rebuilding of Sydney’s nightlife. 

When it opens it throws open its doors in October, the new venue from Mary's Group founders Jake Smyth and Kenny Graham will be a champion for great art, opening the doors and stage to local, domestic and international touring artists with an anything-goes approach and an elevated audience experience.

The Mary’s team have re-imagined the possibilities for this venue as a multi-use and multi-level space, perfect for touring live acts and club nights. 

Speaking on the announcement of Liberty Hall,  NSW 24-Hour Economy Commissioner Michael Rodrigues shares,

“Today’s announcement is another great step forward in the renaissance of Sydney’s live music scene. This new venue will give a platform for creative talent from Sydney and beyond, whilst also helping to revitalise the Entertainment Quarter precinct. It’s a big shot in the arm for our city’s 24-hour economy and I can’t wait to experience its first performances”.

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Mary’s Co-Owner Jake Smyth adds, “Liberty Hall takes its lead from the great venues of the world whose vision is to provide space for artists to explore their full potential. We see art as so deeply vital to the health of society. We hope we can create a home for free expression, of shared celebration and of deep connection. Liberty Hall will be a home for intimate moments and fucking face tearing partying, for challenging conversations and shared experiences.”

Mary’s Co-Owner Kenny Graham offers “The number of words we encounter on a day-to-day basis is possibly at an all-time high. Opinions, takedowns, promises, and encouragement, they are ubiquitous but often lacking in fortitude. Taking action is what creates change and helps build a positive future and that's what we look to embrace. We are humbled at another opportunity to take the reins of yet another fallen live music venue and pour energy and hard work into creating an exciting creative space for Sydney's arts community.”

Graham continues, “We take these opportunities very seriously and are thankful for the support we have been shown by the EQ precinct and local Government to help bring these projects to life. Liberty Hall represents freedom of expression and a commitment to arts & culture. We look forward to opening the doors once again and welcoming everyone through! Long Live Liberty!!”

For those looking for a pre-gig feed, Liberty Hall will be located next door to a new Mary’s venue.