The venue offers an array of live performances, visual art displays, exhibitions, festivals, and free community events.

[5] In 1963, the City Council sold the New Farm powerhouse to the Southern Electrical Authority which was part of the Queensland Government.

[4] For approximately 20 years the building was used as a works depot, a chemical store by the Queensland Government and by the Australian Defence Force for military exercises.

The adaptation potential to reuse the existing structures without detracting from the cultural significance was recognised and architect Peter Roy was commissioned to create an arts venue from the site.

Roy and his team made adjustments such as removed parts of walls, replaced the Turbine Hall roof that had deteriorated and created more defined interior spaces generating another evident phase in the Powerhouse's history.

The refurbishment included an upgrade of the hospitality facilities, improved performance spaces and additional covered outdoor-entertaining areas.

The venue continues to commission and develop projects in all areas of the visual and performing arts as well as provide workshops for children and the community including the ability to hold multiple functions such as weddings, corporate meets and special events (i.e.: Birthdays, engagements).

Over the years, the festival included performances by Belarus Free Theatre, Gob Squad (UK/Germany), Colman Domingo Productions (USA), and Marrugeku, Company 2, The Suitcase Royale and Snuff Puppets from Australia, as well as others from countries including Ireland, New Zealand, Malaysia, Italy, India and Belgium.