Sydney is set to welcome a major new cultural destination as The Cutaway officially opens to the public with a vibrant weekend of free festivities on 30 and 31 May. Backed by the NSW Government, the transformed underground venue at Barangaroo will debut with live music, immersive art, cultural workshops and family-friendly experiences designed to celebrate creativity, community and connection.
The opening weekend will transform Barangaroo into a lively cultural hub, with visitors invited to explore performances, interactive installations and community activities across the precinct. On Saturday, The Cutaway will host live music, large-scale projections, live art-making and hands-on cultural workshops, giving Sydneysiders a first glimpse into the venue’s future as a leading arts and events destination.
Sunday’s program will continue the celebrations with weaving, flower crown making and jewellery workshops, alongside activities tailored for children and families. The festivities will also align with National Reconciliation Week through the Damulay Ngurang program, meaning “friendship place” in local Sydney language, highlighting themes of unity, reconciliation and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural recognition.
A strong lineup of Sydney-based musicians and performers will headline the celebrations, including Kee’ahn, Ngaiire, Alice Ivy, Sophie Penkethman-Young, Shal, DJ Toaka and DJ Charlie Villas, showcasing the diversity and energy of Sydney’s contemporary creative scene.
The popular Barangaroo Markets will also return across the weekend, bringing food stalls, artisan products, local fashion and design to Barangaroo South. Visitors will be able to support local creatives and businesses while enjoying one of Sydney’s most iconic waterfront precincts.
Adding to the cultural experience, free Aboriginal Cultural Tours at Barangaroo Reserve will offer visitors the chance to learn about the deep cultural significance of Sydney Harbour and the enduring connection of the Gadigal people to the land. Guided by Aboriginal educators, the tours aim to provide a meaningful insight into Indigenous history and storytelling.
The reopening of The Cutaway forms part of the Minns Government’s broader push to revitalise Sydney’s cultural and nightlife economy through investments in live music, festivals, public spaces and creative industries. The venue is expected to become a major cultural anchor for the city, hosting events including Vivid Sydney, the National Indigenous Art Fair and Sydney Festival.
NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said the opening weekend would showcase the transformation of The Cutaway into a world-class arts and cultural venue while providing accessible entertainment for families and communities.
What’s On at Barangaroo Live 2026
Live Music and Art
Date: Saturday 30 May, 1pm – 5pm
Location: The Cutaway
Enjoy live performances, immersive projections and interactive art experiences featuring some of Sydney’s most exciting musicians and creatives.
Barangaroo Markets
Date: Saturday 30 May & Sunday 31 May, 10am – 4pm
Location: Barangaroo South, Waterman’s Cove
Browse artisan stalls, fashion, food and handmade products while supporting local businesses and designers.
Cultural Workshops
Date: Saturday 30 May, 1pm – 5pm
Location: The Cutaway, Waranara Terrace Rooms
Children and young families can explore creativity through guided art, movement and cultural activities running throughout the day.
Aboriginal Cultural Tours
Date: Saturday 30 May, 10:30am – 1pm & Sunday 31 May, 1:30pm – 4pm
Location: Barangaroo Reserve
Led by Aboriginal educators, the tours explore the history and cultural significance of the harbour and the Gadigal people.
Damulay Ngurang
Date: Sunday 31 May, 9:30am – 2pm
Location: The Cutaway
A special National Reconciliation Week gathering celebrating friendship, culture, resilience and community connection.
Yoga on Country
Date: Sunday 31 May, 9:30am
Location: The Cutaway
A calming morning wellness session focused on reflection and connection to Country.
Welcome to Country
Date: Sunday 31 May, 10:10am
Location: The Cutaway
An official cultural welcome recognising the Traditional Custodians of the land.
Craft Workshops
Date: Sunday 31 May, 11am – 1pm
Location: The Cutaway
Families can enjoy hands-on workshops including weaving, flower crown making and jewellery activities.
For more information about the full program, visit Barangaroo Live Program
