The Bar at the End of the Wharf: Sydney Theatre Company’s new bar opens in April

STC’s new relaxed and informal dining space, The Bar at the End of the Wharf, is set to open in early April 2012. It has been named for its location at the ‘deep end’ of the Wharf Building at Walsh Bay, which has been the home of STC for over 30 years.

The new bar has been designed by STC resident director Alice Babidge, who has used her familiarity with the space to bring the focus back to the existing aesthetics of natural light and strong timber features. Local designers and craftspeople have created bespoke furniture and light fittings, while ‘found objects’ and recycled materials will feature as part of the design. It’s set to be a relaxed, comfortable, and affordable drinking and dining environment for theatre-goers, local workers and residents, as well as a ‘home’ for the STC’s artists and staff to gather, collaborate, eat and drink.

STC Artistic Directors Andrew Upton and Cate Blanchett said: “The Bar at the End of The Wharf will undoubtedly improve the experience for everyone who comes to STC, whether they’re seeing a show, attending a rehearsal, having a meeting or just hanging out at one of Sydney’s most beautiful spaces. We look forward to many great and good times there.”

Open throughout the day, the Bar at the End of the Wharf will also offer post-show dining to become part of Sydney’s growing late-night hospitality scene. The new menu will feature seasonal and predominantly local produce, with snacks for lunch time grazing and share plates for pre- and post- theatre dining. Seating will accommodate a broad range of experiences, including communal tables for groups, lounges and armchairs, and smaller tables for intimacy.

STC has appointed Sharon Timms as Restaurant Manager. Timms has worked as manager at hatted restaurants Assiette and Four in Hand in Sydney, and Dish in Byron Bay. Joe Cutcliffe, familiar to regulars at Single Origin Coffee Roasters, joins as Bar Manager. Fresh Catering, one of Sydney’s most respected caterers, is responsible for the menu.