Sydney Entertainment Centre
A Brief History
Opened on May 1, 1983, the Sydney Entertainment Centre was a multi-purpose indoor arena situated in the heart of Haymarket, Sydney. Often referred to as the “Kingdome,” this iconic venue replaced the old Sydney Stadium, making way for one of the largest and most prominent entertainment hubs in the city. Designed by the architectural firm Edwards, Madigan, Torzillo and Briggs, and constructed by the John Holland Group, the Sydney Entertainment Centre could accommodate up to 13,250 people.
Throughout its 32-year history, the centre hosted an impressive array of events, including concerts, sporting events, family shows, and corporate gatherings. It was the primary home for the NBL’s Sydney Kings from 1990 until 1999 and then again from 2002 until 2015.
The Main Events… Only Some Off!!
Noteworthy Events and Milestones
The Sydney Entertainment Centre was synonymous with a variety of moments that captured the hearts of audiences
First Major Concert
Cold Chisel marked the centre’s inaugural year with their “Last Stand” concert in December 1983.
Elton John’s Residency
Elton John, renowned for his memorable performances, held multiple concerts at the venue, with his final show there in December 2015 being the centre’s last event before demolition.
Sporting Glory
The centre was not only a musical haven but also a sports mecca, hosting basketball matches for the Sydney Kings and Sydney Uni Flames.
The Records Of Time
Records Broken
The centre was a record-breaking venue in more ways than one
Most Concerts by an Artist
Elton John holds the distinct record of performing 45 concerts at the Sydney Entertainment Centre.
High Attendance
The highest attendance recorded for a basketball game since 2003 was 10,439 during an NBL Grand Final match between the Sydney Kings and the Perth Wildcats in 2003.
Diverse Events
The centre hosted over 4,000 concerts and welcomed more than 27 million visitors throughout its operational years. More than the population of Australia.
Goodbye
The Final Curtain
The Sydney Entertainment Centre closed its doors on December 20, 2015, with an unforgettable farewell concert by Elton John. The venue was demolished in January 2016 to make way for the new Sydney International Convention Centre, which promised to continue the legacy of hosting world-class events though without some of the sporting capabilities the former venue offered.
The Sydney Entertainment Centre remains a cherished memory for many Sydneysiders and visitors alike, symbolizing an era of rich entertainment and cultural significance.
The Memories
Memorable Music Moments
The Sydney Entertainment Centre was a place where music legends performed and unforgettable moments were created.
P!nk’s Record-Breaking Shows
P!nk, known for her powerful performances and aerial stunts, performed multiple times at the venue. Her 2009 Funhouse Tour included a record-breaking 12-show run at the centre.
Elton John’s Residency
Elton John, renowned for his memorable performances, held multiple concerts at the venue, with his final show there in December 2015 being the centre’s last event before demolition.
The Sydney Culture
Cultural Impact
The Sydney Entertainment Centre was more than just a venue; it was a cultural landmark that played a significant role in Sydney’s entertainment landscape.
Diverse Performances
From rock and pop concerts to classical performances and international acts, the centre catered to diverse tastes and hosted artists from around the world.
Family-Friendly Events
The venue was a go-to destination for family-friendly shows, including Disney on Ice, The Wiggles concerts, and other children’s entertainment programs.
Community Engagement
The centre often served as a hub for community events, charity functions, and local celebrations, contributing to the city’s vibrant cultural scene like the Sydney Olympics & Paralympics.
The Tech
Technological Innovations
The Sydney Entertainment Centre was at the forefront of adopting new technologies to enhance the concert-going experience.
Advanced Sound Systems
The venue featured state-of-the-art sound systems that provided clear and immersive audio experiences for audiences, ensuring that every performance was heard in exceptional quality.
Lighting and Visuals
With advanced lighting rigs and visual equipment, the center was capable of hosting spectacular light shows and visual effects that complemented the performances on stage.
Versatile Staging
The centre’s flexible staging options allowed for creative and dynamic setups, accommodating different types of events, from concerts and sports to theatrical productions.
The Destruction
Reasons for Demolition
The decision to tear down the Sydney Entertainment Centre was driven by plans to rejuvenate and expand the Darling Harbour precinct with a modern, world-class facility. By 2012, the venue was showing its age and no longer met the demands of a rapidly growing city.
Controversy and Community Concerns
While the official reasons for demolishing the Sydney Entertainment Centre centered around modernization and economic benefits, many in the community felt that the decision was influenced more by big business interests than by a genuine commitment to cultural enhancement.
Cultural Heritage
The Sydney Entertainment Centre held significant cultural value and was a beloved landmark for Sydneysiders. Many community members and cultural historians argued that the venue should have been preserved as a heritage site rather than being replaced. They believed that the centre’s rich history and the memories it created were invaluable and irreplaceable.
Economic Priorities
Critics of the demolition pointed out that the push for a modern convention and exhibition centre was driven largely by economic priorities rather than cultural ones. They argued that the decision favored business interests and commercial gain over the cultural and historical significance of the site.
Alternative Renovations
Some suggested that the venue could have been renovated and upgraded rather than completely demolished. They believed that with the right investment and creativity, the Sydney Entertainment Centre could have been modernized to meet current standards while retaining its unique character and historical importance.
Public Sentiment
The demolition sparked a debate about the balance between progress and preservation. Many residents felt a sense of loss and nostalgia, as the venue had played a crucial role in the city’s entertainment landscape for over three decades. The decision to tear it down felt like the erasure of a piece of Sydney’s identity.
Conclusion
The Sydney Entertainment Centre was more than just a venue—it was an emblem of Sydney’s rich cultural and entertainment tapestry. As a host to countless legendary performances, community events, and sports spectacles, it left an indelible mark on the hearts of millions. Though the centre closed its doors in 2015, its legacy lives on through the memories of those who experienced its magic.
The Sydney Entertainment Centre stands as a testament to the enduring power of live entertainment and community spirit. Its story is a proud chapter in the city’s history, illustrating how a single venue can unite people through the universal language of music and performance. As we look back on its storied past, we celebrate the countless moments of joy, excitement, and unity that it brought to Sydneysiders and visitors alike.
Sydney Entertainment Centre Super Star Legacy 1983 – 2015 – Photos By Mike Fernandes
Join the Discussion
Do you have any memorable moments from the Sydney Entertainment Centre? Whether you attended a heart-pounding concert, an exhilarating basketball game, or a spectacular family show, we’d love to hear your stories!
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