The Brightside unveils new outdoor live-music venue The Next Stage
Since 2014, The Brightside has been a beating heart of Fortitude Valley’s live music circuit, luring crowds into its converted church on Warner Street for everything from sweaty punk throwdowns to sun-drenched mini-festivals. In the past year alone, more than 350 gigs have torn through its stages – proof of the venue’s tireless commitment to live-music culture in Brisbane. Now, The Brightside is preparing to expand its legacy with The Next Stage – a bold new outdoor performance space that reimagines its car park as a purpose-built arena for gigs under the stars.
Developed hand-in-hand with the people who live and breathe live music – from promoters and booking agents to artists and touring crews – The Next Stage has been designed to raise the bar for both performers and punters. Phase one, which will kick off in late 2025, features a permanent outdoor stage fitted with a world-class L-Acoustics sound system, streamlining production while delivering unmatched audio. Behind the scenes, a brand-new green room offers touring artists the comfort and convenience, complete with direct stage access.
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Fans will enjoy an adaptable mezzanine with sweeping views, designed to host VIPs or to be sectioned off to create intimate atmospheres for private events. A brand-new bar and service area ensure faster drinks, colder beers and smoother flow throughout the space, keeping the focus firmly on the music.
Phase two of the expansion, expected in 2026, will add a retractable roof to keep shows rolling in all weather, and will also include upgraded amenities and a rooftop bar overlooking the stage – transforming The Brightside into a truly multi-layered destination for Brisbane music lovers.