Shopfront Arts Co-op

Shopfront Arts Co-op is a youth arts organisation on Bidjigal and Kameygal Country in Carlton, Sydney. For 50 years, it has championed the creative voices of Young People through collaborative, cross-disciplinary performance-making. Established in 1976, Shopfront operates as a member-driven co-operative, providing training, mentorship, and production opportunities for artists aged 8–26.

The organisation presents a year-round program of workshops, performances, festivals, and emerging artist and technician development initiatives that emphasise creative agency and social connection.

Shopfront partners with schools, local councils, national arts institutions and venues to deliver access-focused programs and touring works, and maintains a strong commitment to inclusivity through initiatives designed for young artists with disability and those from underrepresented communities.

As one of Australia’s longest-running youth-led arts organisations, Shopfront continues to play a significant role in nurturing the next generation of performers, makers, and cultural leaders.

Several well-known people in the entertainment industry have started careers there or taught there, including Paul Capsis, Andrew Upton, Trevor Ashley and Julia Zemiro.