The Playhouse Hotel, Barraba, NSW
Cliff Axelsen “Infinity”
Andrew Sharp In the Playhouse Hotel , Barraba, NSW
The courtyard of The Playhouse Hotel, Barraba, NSW
The theatre of The Playhouse Hotel, Barraba, NSW
Anne Gibson
Anne Gibson
Anne Gibson
It always amazes me to see how the effect of one person’s energy and passion has the ability to change a place… On our arrival in the lovely rural community of Barraba, we were lucky enough to find the visionary Andrew Sharp, dynamic and passionate owner of The Playhouse Hotel, available for an interview and photo shoot. The Playhouse Hotel is arguably one of the main cultural centres of the district, hosting a variety of live music and theatre, movies, conferences and celebrations. With its sun-drenched licensed restaurant, vine-covered courtyard for parties, art gallery, conference room and an 80 seat private theatre for movie screenings and live performances, the hotel is the perfect choice for a short stay or special occasion, and Andrew an eloquent and gracious host.
In The Playhouse Gallery, Andrew hosts exhibitions from his private art collection as well as original works by local and other artists. Opening night parties give guests the opportunity to view artworks over a glass of wine before dinner in the restaurant (Andrew has engaged a full time chef). We were lucky enough to see an exhibition of paintings by Anne Gibson of Bondi Sydney as well as works by local artist Erik Dekkers and sculpture by Cliff Axelsen.
Andrew Sharp studied theatre in Sydney (he and Rosie were fellow Drama students at UNSW in the seventies). Andrew’s life path took him to the UK, where he worked as a professional actor. Travelling to Barraba in 2001, Andrew discovered small country town life and purchased what was the former Central Hotel, and embarked upon an ambitious renovation program, which has resulted in the luxury boutique hotel opening for business in 2007. (The old Central Hotel pool room is now Andrew’s theatre.)
Rosie and her family have enjoyed several meals and overnight stays at the Playhouse Hotel and suggests that you read the reviews at:
and the hotel website for more information.
Playhouse Hotel Contact details:
121-123 Queen St, Barraba.
Ph (02) 67821109
90 km north of Tamworth and 550km north west of Sydney on the Fossickers Way, Barraba sits in the Nandewar Ranges with the extinct volcanic area of Mount Kaputar to the west.
Thanks for lovely dreakfast last Sunday after the kitchen was closed, kori was a delight and humoris. Cheers Alann, Michael. James
The two harley riders s
Looking forward to reading more about the art scene in Barraba NSW.