A landmark building in the heart of Geelong is about to begin a new chapter, with a restored 1800s church reopening this August as Church, a dedicated live music venue designed to support independent artists and the region’s thriving creative community.
Located at 71 Ryrie Street, the heritage building has been transformed by Geelong Arts Centre into an intimate performance space accommodating up to 150 standing or 100 seated patrons.
Once a place of worship, later a restaurant and more recently a rehearsal venue for performers including Guy Pearce, Rachel Griffiths and Back to Back Theatre, the building has been carefully restored while retaining its historic character.
Geelong Arts Centre CEO and Creative Director Rhys Holden said the venue fills a long-standing gap in the city’s music scene.
“Geelong’s independent music and arts scene is bursting with talent, and Church gives that talent somewhere to truly call home,” he said. “This is something we have wanted to create for a long time — a genuinely accessible, artist-led space where independent performers can take risks, build audiences, and grow their practice.”
Unlike traditional venues, Church will operate on an artist-first model, with no upfront hire fees for independent performers. Geelong Arts Centre will instead provide marketing, ticketing and operational support, allowing artists to focus on creating and performing.
Emerging musician Madeleine Cope welcomed the initiative.
“Having a space like Church in Geelong is huge for local artists,” she said. “It gives us the freedom to create events that genuinely reflect who we are… launching my EP here feels incredibly special.”
The opening program features Teen Jesus and the Jean Teasers, Jasmin Adria, The Shore, Tyne James Organ, Immy Owusu, Tjaka and a host of local performers, alongside a free community event, Bless This Mess.
Backed by Creative Victoria and philanthropic supporters, Church aims to become a permanent home for independent music and artistic collaboration in Geelong.
