The Tivoli

In 1917, amidst the flour dust and rising dough, the Adams Bakery opened its doors on Costin Street. Little did anyone know this building would become the iconic The Tivoli. The Tivoli is Brisbane’s beloved home of live music and entertainment. The Tivoli Theatre wasn’t always a stage for rock stars and dazzling performances. It began as the Adams Bakery, boasting the “finest gourmet cakes in Queensland”. Later, the State Library used the space to house its collection of rare books. Imagine the scent of aging paper and the hushed reverence for knowledge that filled these walls. Then, in 1989, with the excitement of Expo ’88 still echoing through the city, Ann Garms, OAM, transformed the building. She envisioned a venue inspired by the Paradis Latin in Paris, a renowned cabaret theatre. The Tivoli Restaurant and Theatre was born. The Tivoli has hosted a galaxy of musical legends. From Australian heroes like Powderfinger, Nick Cave, Missy Higgins, and The Go-Betweens to international icons like Bob Dylan, Katy Perry, and Taylor Swift, the stage has pulsed with energy. Even today, after 36 years, The Tivoli, affectionately known as “The Tiv”, continues to make history. It boasts stunning art deco features, a testament to its rich past. The Tivoli offers a decadent program of local and international acts. It stands as one of Australia’s most beautiful performance venues. The next time you’re at The Tivoli, take a moment to appreciate the echoes of its past. From the aroma of freshly baked bread to the whispers of rare books, the building holds a century of stories.