In an era where streaming services and easy-access online entertainment are quite literally at our fingertips, it can be easy to forgo the visceral pleasures of live entertainment, be it theatre, band gigs or stand-up comedy. Why bother heading out into the chilly night, trying to find a parking spot and paying an admission fee when it can be much simpler to flick on Netflix and stay on the couch?

But in doing that, a strong community connection can be lost, and the vast Australian cultural heritage of live performance not given the credit it’s due. The unpredictable and tactile nature of live shows is where the beauty lies, and one institution proudly upholding this tradition in the heart of Potts Point is the iconic Hayes Theatre Co at 19 Greenknowe Ave.

One of Potts Point’s true cultural gems, tucked away just moments from the bustle of Macleay St, the Hayes Theatre might be easy to miss, but that’s no measure of the venue’s standing in Sydney’s creative landscape.

Opened in 2014 and named in honour of legendary Australian musical theatre performer and director Nancye Hayes, the intimate 111-seat venue has established itself as one of Australia’s leading homes of independent musical theatre and performance. Though modest in size, its influence on the nation’s performing arts scene has been anything but small.

The building itself has a rich theatrical history. Long before becoming the Hayes, it was the Reginald Murphy Hall and, from 2001 until 2012, was home to the Darlinghurst Theatre Company. In 2014 it was given new life through a vision to create a dedicated home for musical theatre and live shows, breathing fresh energy into one of Potts Point’s historic community buildings.

Since opening with an acclaimed production of Sweet Charity, the Hayes has earned a reputation for producing bold reinterpretations of classic musicals alongside new Australian works.

Numerous productions have gone on to larger commercial theatres and national tours, making the venue an important launching pad for performers, directors and creative teams. Its “off-Broadway-style” ambience allows audiences to experience world-class theatre and performance in an unusually intimate setting.

With an evolving program ranging from new plays to cabaret and comedy, it’s worth signing up to their newsletter to keep in touch with current and upcoming shows. For example, running until August 9 is a fun take on the world’s most famous “spooky” family with The Addams Family. Produced by the team behind the Hayes’ 2025 season of The Producers, the production is directed by Julia Robertson and choreographed by Shannon Burns.

And as a good showcase of what the theatre is all about, this year’s Festival of New Work begins on August 10. With the full gamut of events being showcased, from live plays and musical performances to “in conversation” events and industry masterclasses, it forms the perfect introduction to the Hayes and its vibrant creative spirit.

Sitting comfortably within Potts Point’s long creative tradition, the Hayes draws theatre lovers from across the city while remaining very much part of the local village. It’s a great reminder that some of the most exciting artistic experiences don’t always happen in the biggest venues, but sometimes in a small theatre tucked away, just around the corner.

Hayes Theatre Co.

https://hayestheatre.com.au/

By Adam Gibson 

Photo by Adam Gibson