Sydney's Old Fitzroy Theatre Is Hosting A Summer Party To Support The Arts

The Old Fitzroy Theatre — a pivotal institution in Sydney's cultural landscape — is set to host its first-ever summer street party, A Streetparty Named Fitz, on Sunday, Feb. 11.

This event aims to raise crucial funds for the independent Old Fitzroy Theatre while providing attendees with a day filled with music, performances, and festivities.

The event, scheduled to take place from 12 pm to 7 pm, will transform Dowling Street into a lively celebration zone. With a stellar lineup of live music, performances, and culinary delights, A Streetparty Named Fitz promises to be an unforgettable day for Sydney's arts and culture enthusiasts.

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The Old Fitz Theatre, nestled in the basement of the historic 150-year-old Old Fitzroy Hotel, has been a cornerstone of Sydney's arts scene for 26 years. As Australia's last remaining pub theatre, it has played a crucial role in incubating daring and innovative independent works, providing a platform for new artists, and hosting industry heavyweights.

The summer street party aims to celebrate the Theatre's rich history, announce its upcoming Act 2 2024 productions, and raise funds to support its continued operation.

The Dowling Street cul-de-sac will be closed for the event, featuring a stage that will host a diverse program of live music and performances throughout the day. Headlining the musical lineup is Murray Cook's Soul Movers, featuring Murray Cook of The Wiggles fame.

There are also live theatre performances courtesy of The Old Fitz Theatre, DJ Aunty Jonny on the decks, roving performers, burlesque, comedy, drag, and and speeches from both The Old Fitzroy and The Old Fitz Theatre Company touching on 2024’s lineup and the importance of live performance, community, and the arts, in Sydney’s cultural fabric.

The event's purpose goes beyond entertainment, as funds raised will contribute to the Theatre's Act 2 season. Odd Culture Group, the hospitality group that owns and operates the Old Fitzroy Hotel, is generously donating a portion of the event's revenue.

Guests will also have the opportunity to contribute through various activities and donation stations on-site.

Emma Wright, Old Fitzroy Theatre, said: "It means so much to us to work alongside Odd Culture to ensure that the Fitz remains a local favourite and a home for experience-seekers all over Sydney to return to.”

“Funds raised through this exciting event will support our Act 2 season and contribute towards keeping the lights on at the much-loved Old Fitz Theatre.”

She continued, “As a small, independent theatre space, support from the community and opportunities to reach beyond our 55-seat space make a world of difference, and help us continue to champion independent artists and stories within this iconic space."

Culinary offerings at the street party will include an Aussie pub-inspired menu curated by Odd Culture Group's Executive Chef, James MacDonald.

A summer BBQ street party menu will feature a New Orleans-inspired twist, with delights such as smoked cheeseburgers and Jambalaya. Mapo Gelato’s Mapo Bus will also be stationed streetside at the event to serve up Sydney's premier gelato to kids and adults alike.

For those wanting to donate to the theatre online ahead of the event, they can do so here: https://www.oldfitztheatre.com.au/donations

For more info and where to nab tickets for this event, head to Odd Culture’s website.

Location: The Old Fitzroy Hotel, 129 Dowling Street, Woolloomooloo NSW

Date: 11 February 2024

Time: 12:00pm - 7:00pm