After seven years of energetic gigs and welcoming thousands of punters through its doors, Sydney institution Mary’s Underground will soon close its doors.
In a statement called “The Final Chapter,” venue operators Jake Smyth and Kenny Graham – who also run Liberty Hall in Sydney – cited “financial reasons” and “the many headwinds the live music industry currently faces” as the primary reasons for the venue’s closure.
The pair said that since the venue opened its doors in 2019, it’s been home to more than 1,000 gigs, welcoming over 3,000 artists to the stage. The venue will close down in a matter of months.
“This winter, Mary’s Underground will host its final shows before closing its doors,” Smyth and Graham confirmed.
“7 years ago, we signed a lease on 7 MacQuarie Place, more famously known as ‘The Basement,’” the venue operators said. “We had big plans: a burger joint upstairs with a bouji-Mary’s restaurant with free live jazz downstairs, paying homage to the rich history of the venue.
“With greats such as BB King and Prince having graced the stage, we were honoured and acutely aware of what we were custodians of. We were motivated to do it justice.”
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This was 2019. Then, the COVID-19 pandemic hit, “forcing our industry to its knees,” Smyth and Graham continued. “Having devoted our professional lives to the art and work of food and music, we did the word we all cringe at hearing now- PIVOT!”
The pair added that they faced some “excruciating” months during which they received support from the NSW Government, Council, and their landlord. The venue eventually reopened, hosting gigs and selling 150,000 tickets. “Mary’s Underground stands proudly amongst the best venues of its size in the country,” the duo affirmed.
Their statement continued, “While these are achievements of which we are extremely proud, we have made the tough decision to close Mary’s Underground. Our chapter as custodians has come to an end.
“It will come as no surprise that this is ultimately due to financial reasons and the many headwinds the live music industry currently faces, especially for venues under 500 capacity. Declining bar sales, coupled with increasing costs and sky-high Sydney land values does not make a recipe for success.”
Smyth and Graham then pointed to supporters, including Mike Rodrigues, Minister John Graham, Emily Collins, Mick Gibb, and the Small Business Commission.
They continued, “We thank all the artists, punters and production staff who made all of these shows possible. We pay tribute to the other venue operators around the country who are constantly battling to keep the doors open. You will always have our respect and support.
“And last but not least, the incredible staff of Mary’s Underground. Whether it be a busy CBD lunch service or a hard techno party until 5 am, they showed up every day with a smile on their face and a towel over their shoulder, ready to make it happen.
“The music and events team, who brought so many good times to the venue, including even putting on their own nights, which was a true and special commitment. You are truly great people; we thank you for everything.”
Their statement concluded, “We will continue to support art and music at Liberty Hall, and are committed to enriching this community at every opportunity. Thanks for the good times, and please KEEP SUPPORTING LIVE MUSIC!! All art needs nurtured and an opportunity to be celebrated. Life would be very boring without it.”
Final gigs taking place at Mary’s Underground before its closure include The Living End’s ARIA Hall of Fame induction party, plus shows from Chloe Parché, Protomartyr, Prince Daddy & The Hyena, and more. You can see the gig guide here.
