The team behind the former Pleasures Playhouse pop-up events series in Sydney’s Chinatown, has secured the lease of a 158-year-old Kent street church.
Originally built in circa 1868 as the Church of St John, the 230sqm site has lived many lives over its 158-year history.
Situated on the eastern side of Kent street between Druitt and Market streets, just 200 metres from Town Hall, the building has served as a poorhouse, the Kursaal Theatre, and the original Matthew Talbot Hostel in the 1930s.
In 1954, it became home to the Genesian Theatre, moulding the careers of countless creative Australian film directors including Baz Luhrmann, as well as producers, writers and actors.
After a 70-year tenure, the theatre company relocated to Rozelle in 2024.
Marketed by John Skufris of RWC South Sydney on behalf of a private investor, the campaign generated more than 35 online enquiries from a diverse mix of prospective tenants, including church groups, retailers, and food and beverage operators.
"This property is definitely unique and holds lots of rich history,” Mr Skufris said.
"The building was offered for lease in unrenovated condition, but the tenants saw potential and are currently fitting out having received local heritage exemption for temporary works”.
It marks the second Sydney CBD venue for the operators, who had originally transformed the former Harbour City Cinema on Dixon Street which had been closed for about 15 years.
RWC South Sydney agent John Skufris noted that the same private investors also own the building immediately behind known as 275 Clarence Street with the former Grandma’s small bar venue now also available for lease.
