The spotlight is on and the mic check done with culture and music to take centre stage at Cathedral Square for the next two months as Sunset Piazza comes to life from tonight.
Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said the festivities were the hottest ticket in town and would showcase Sydney at its best.
“It’s going to be sounds in the city this summer with acts such as James Morrison, Ben Lee, Opera Australia, the iconic Cumbiamuffin, and international sensation Sneaky Sound System putting on great performances,” Mr Perrottet said.
“Tickets are selling fast and it’s great to see so many people excited to get back and enjoy the best of what Sydney has to offer – great weather, great dining and great culture.
“This is exactly what the Summer Summit last year was all about – putting the spotlight back on Sydney and bringing people back into our great CBD.”
City of Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore said Sunset Piazza was a joint initiative with the NSW Government to support local businesses and artists through a creative-led recovery.
“While we remain vigilant about the risk of Covid-19, it is wonderful to see Sydneysiders and visitors return to the city centre to enjoy long nights of live music and performance, safely,” the Lord Mayor said.
“The fantastic Sunset Piazza program will extend our Al Fresco Sydney summer through to 21 March, with a program of contemporary and classical music, comedy and more.
“It’s all part of our $20 million investment with the NSW Government into an Al Fresco City, including more outdoor dining, live entertainment, and cultural institutions open late.”
Jazz veteran James Morrison said the initiative would be a real win for local performers and guests alike.
“It’s so exciting to be performing for a live audience again after so long where we haven’t been able to and of course what better place to do it than in my home city of Sydney. It doesn’t get any better than that,” Mr Morrison said.
“It’s going to be a party that brings the city to life and it’s going to transform Cathedral Square into an artistic hub, creating jobs and boosting the local economy.”
Minister for Tourism Stuart Ayres said Sunset Piazza would see almost 100 hours of music and entertainment, which was set to reinvigorate Sydney’s twilight.
“Over 32 nights from 28 January until 21 March people will be able to enjoy dozens of performances with friends and family in a COVID-safe way,” Mr Ayres said.
“You can book a table and enjoy food and drink from our local vendors or sit in one of our rows and enjoy a real concert experience.
“From DJs to orchestras, there is something for everyone and it’s a really exciting time as people get out and enjoy their summer nights.”
Sunset Piazza is one of the many initiatives to come out of the Summer Summit, alongside more outdoor dining, lunchtime entertainment and art installations to support local businesses and artists.
All events will follow COVID-safe regulations and guests are reminded to follow the latest NSW Health advice regarding social distancing, hygiene and staying home if unwell.
Plan your journey to Sunset Piazza by using the Opal Travel App or find further information to make your journey easier at transportnsw.info.
