Hordern Pavilion

Editorial

The Hordern Pavilion has seen millions of patrons file through its famous doors and has hosted everything from rock concerts and raves to film premieres, fashion events and even championship boxing bouts.

The Hordern (as it is more commonly known - mentioning the full name to a Sydneysider will likely draw a quizzical glance and a muttered “From interstate, are you?”) was originally built in 1924 to accommodate the Royal Easter Shows' need for more space. It wasn't really until the '70s, when a remodelling plus an explosion in the rock scene, would put the Hordern well and truly in the international spotlight. Jethro Tull, Eric Clapton, Frank Sinatra and Frank Zappa having all played here in this decade. With a capacity of around 5500 punters, it remained Sydney's largest indoor venue until 1983.

Refitted and refurbished again in 1999, the Hordern has recently played host to Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds, Foo Fighters, Pet Shop Boys, Coldplay and MGMT to name just a few. It continues to stage world quality gigs, with both international and local acts keen to grace its stage.

The Hordern is a vital and vibrant venue in Sydney. 10 minutes from the centre of the city by car or bus, keep your fingers crossed it keeps rocking for another 85 years.

Simon Maiden, May 2010

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