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Henry Carmichael Theatre

See The Bigger Picture

The Henry Carmichael Theatre is a space built for ideas and storytelling.

Two minutes from Town Hall and Gadigal Metro, our tiered theatre is designed for connection, conversation, and impact. The lighting adjusts, the stage is set, high-quality AV and video conferencing bring every voice into the room.

This accessible space comfortably seats 140 people and has been host to AGMs, panel discussions, festivals, product launches and screenings and more!

The theatre sits on Level 1, alongside a spacious foyer where guests can gather, register, and enjoy refreshments.

Three adjacent meeting rooms offer space for breakouts, concurrent sessions, and focused conversations. Together, they create the perfect venue for your next event, whether that is a small to medium conference, festival, workshop, launch and exhibition.

A space made for big ideas and bigger stories. Make it yours.

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Features

Capacity
Tiered Theatre | 140
Stage area | 9
Foyer (Standing only) | 140


Audio Visual Equipment
The following in-house audio-visual equipment is included in the venue hire fee of the Henry Carmichael Theatre.

  • Data projector and large projector screen
  • Computer with USB and HDMI connections
  • Lectern
  • Roving microphones
  • Lapel microphones
  • ‘Madonna’ microphones
  • Stereo Sound system

 

Catering
The adjoining foyer can be used as a break-out space for catering and networking. Use our preferred catering service or bring in your own.

Click here to learn more about catering at SMSA.

Accessibility
The Henry Carmichael Theatre is accessible for guests with mobility issues, including those in a wheelchair and features a Hearing Loop.

 

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Who was Henry Carmichael?

We love that you’re curious! The Henry Carmichael Theatre is named in honour of a true pioneer: the Scottish minister, teacher, and passionate educationist who co-founded the Sydney Mechanics’ School of Arts in 1833.

His story with us began on the high seas. In 1831, Carmichael sailed to New South Wales aboard the Stirling Castle with a group of 30 ‘mechanics’—skilled tradesmen and artisans. During the long voyage, he transformed part of the ship into a floating classroom, teaching them mathematics and mechanics, and laying the groundwork for our institution before they even reached shore. You can read about it HERE

After helping establish the SMSA, Carmichael moved to the Hunter Valley, where he famously pioneered viticulture in the colony… and for that, we raise a glass to say, “cheers!”.

The Sydney Mechanics’ School of Arts is Australia’s oldest and remains a wonderful members’ community for curious minds, literature lovers, and lifelong learners. If that sounds like you, we’d love you to join us.

The Sydney Mechanics’ School of Arts is Australia’s oldest and a wonderful members community for curious minds, literature lovers and lifelong learners. If that sounds like you, we’d love you to join us.

Need additional rooms for your event? Explore our other event spaces that can be used in conjunction with the Henry Carmichael Theatre!

Boardroom

Boardroom

The SMSA Boardroom is an impressive, professional space for all your business meeting needs. It is available for business meetings such as Board Meetings, Staff Meetings and Mediation.

EXPLORE VENUE

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