Machine Hall Helps Grassroots Creatives Bring Their Ideas to the Stage With M.PWR

Machine Hall is a 100-year-old substation turned contemporary event and performance space in the heart of Sydney. Since it opened two years ago, the historic venue has played host to several cultural programs, from art exhibits and live performances to runway shows.

Now, the team behind Machine Hall is giving back to artists through M.PWR (pronounced “empower”). Subsidised by the City of Sydney, the program is removing the financial barriers that typically prevent talented individuals from showcasing their works by waiving venue hire fees.

For 26 days this year, the M.PWR series will make it possible for grassroots creatives of all kinds – musicians, designers, dancers, writers, even chefs – to take the stage.

“We’re not trying to restrict anyone in terms of what ideas they have for the space,” Machine Hall’s general manager Trish Rogers tells Broadsheet. “It’s like ‘plug and play’: you’re only limited by your imagination.”

Acts will be chosen based on their originality, innovation and community value. Celebrating diversity, inclusivity, and uplifting a wide range of voices are at the top of the agenda.

The initiative works to support Machine Hall too. Rogers explains these emerging creatives help keep Machine Hall “relevant” by demonstrating the space’s multi-functionality.

“All of us [at Machine Hall] collectively live and breathe art and creativity,” Rogers says. Machine Hall is typically a commercial hospitality precinct, but “M.PWR means we can also layer in creativity. Homegrown artists [can] add a bit of soul.”

At the heart of the M.PWR series is a deep desire to nurture Sydney’s cultural scene. It is a give and take with grassroots artists gaining momentum in creative pursuits, while also encouraging and empowering communities in the area to bring their own, unique ideas to life.

“We want M.PWR to lead the way,” says Rogers.

Applications close Monday March 10, 2025.

www.machinehall.com.au/mpwr
@machinehall