Sydney Opera House: The Star of the Show

You can’t talk Sydney theatre without bowing to the Sydney Opera House. Those white sails on the harbor are world-famous, and inside, it’s a cultural powerhouse. During the Biennale, the Opera House goes all out with performances tied to the Rememory theme—think memory, identity, and reclaimed histories. Expect shows like a dance piece by Bangarra Dance Theatre, weaving First Nations stories with contemporary moves, or maybe a global collab with artists like Brazil’s Alberto Pitta, bringing carnival vibes to the stage.

Beyond the Biennale, the Opera House’s 2026 season is stacked. You might catch a Sydney Theatre Company play in the Drama Theatre—something punchy like a new Aussie script—or a concert in the Concert Hall. Don’t miss Badu Gili, the free nightly projection of First Nations art on the sails, which vibes with the Biennale’s Indigenous focus. Tickets for shows can be pricey, so book early on their website. If you’re on a budget, check out free talks or pop-up gigs in the foyers. Pro tip: grab a pre-show drink at the Opera Bar—harbor views and live music make it magic.

Carriageworks: Raw, Real, and Ready to Wow

Down in Redfern, Carriageworks is where Sydney’s theatre scene gets gritty and bold. This old railway workshop, with its massive brick walls and industrial charm, is a Biennale hotspot. For 2026, expect performances that push boundaries—maybe a site-specific theatre piece by a First Nations collective like Yangamini, using the huge space to tell stories of Country, or an experimental show by international artists like Guatemala’s Edgar Calel, blending ritual and memory. These shows are often immersive, so you might wander through the set or join a post-show Q&A.

Carriageworks isn’t just about the Biennale, though. It’s a year-round hub for cutting-edge theatre, dance, and music. You could stumble into a Belvoir St Theatre production or a contemporary dance show by Sydney Dance Company. The vibe’s super inclusive, and tickets are usually cheaper than the Opera House. If you’re there on a Saturday, hit the farmers’ market outside for a brekkie roll. Just a heads up: it’s a big space, so wear comfy shoes coz you’ll be on your feet a bit!

Roslyn Packer Theatre: Intimate and Intense

Tucked in Walsh Bay, near the harbor, the Roslyn Packer Theatre is a gem for theatre lovers who want something up-close. It’s home to the Sydney Theatre Company, so you know the quality’s top-notch. During the Biennale, this spot might host a play or performance tied to Rememory—think a script by an Indigenous playwright like Nakkiah Lui, tackling history and identity, or a solo show by an Asia-Pacific artist exploring migration. The 896-seat theatre feels intimate, so you’re right in the action.

Outside the Biennale, the 2026 season could include Aussie classics or bold new works. Last year, they did a ripper adaptation of a Tim Winton novel, and 2026’s lineup will likely be just as strong. Tickets start around $50, but check for rush deals if you’re flexible. Walsh Bay’s got cute cafes and bars nearby, so make an evening of it. I once dashed from a Biennale exhibit at the MCA to a show here—ferry’s the way to go, trust me.

Belvoir St Theatre: Surry Hills’ Creative Heart

In the funky Surry Hills neighborhood, Belvoir St Theatre is where Sydney’s theatre scene feels like a big, warm hug. This 350-seat venue, housed in an old tomato sauce factory, is all about stories that hit home. For the Biennale, expect smaller-scale performances that pack a punch—maybe a monologue by a First Nations artist like Dylan Mooney, tying into his Biennale artworks, or a devised piece by local creatives exploring Sydney’s multicultural roots. The vibe’s super chill, and you’ll feel like part of the community.

Belvoir’s regular shows are a mix of new Aussie plays and reimagined classics. Their 2026 season might feature something quirky like a comedy about Sydney’s housing crisis or a drama by Leah Purcell. Tickets are reasonable, and the bar’s great for a pre-show wine. Surry Hills is crawling with eateries, so grab dinner at a nearby joint like Nomad after. Pro tip: book early for Biennale shows, they sell out quick!