Thousands of candles and pop hits on strings: Candlelight’s new Melbourne season includes shows at Sea Life Aquarium

The heartfelt storytelling of Ed Sheeran and the soaring anthems of Coldplay are brought together in a beautifully reimagined classical concert. Iconic songs from both artists are transformed through elegant string arrangements, blending emotional ballads with uplifting melodies. Set beneath the warm glow of candlelight, this immersive performance offers a moving and atmospheric way to experience two of modern music’s most beloved catalogues.

Photography spills out of the feed and into the streets. Across three days in downtown Minneapolis, masterclasses with Chris Burkard and Keith Ladzinski sit beside hands-on gear testing, cyanotype printing and dawn-lit photowalks. Then Loring Park opens up for Vince Staples, Tycho and Cory Wong. Bring a pro rig, bring your phone, or just bring your curiosity — every perspective belongs here.

One of classical music’s most celebrated works comes to life in this immersive candlelit performance, where Vivaldi’s Four Seasons unfolds in all its vivid detail. From the bright energy of Spring to the dramatic intensity of Winter, each movement is brought to the forefront through expressive string arrangements. Surrounded by the soft glow of candlelight, the experience offers a timeless and atmospheric journey through nature, emotion, and sound.

When the first notes of Dance of the Little Swans emerge, grace and longing drift through the air. Tchaikovsky’s music endures for its emotional depth, storytelling elegance, and lasting influence on dance and imagination. From the aching beauty of the Swan Theme to the gentle lift of the Waltz, each moment feels timeless. Wrapped in Candlelight’s intimate glow, the experience becomes quietly magical.

Candlelight has been met with countless 5-star reviews since arriving in Melbourne. The below, though, are reviews from 2025. 

Candlelight concerts in Melbourne are hosted in a selection of iconic venues, including The Athenaeum Theatre, Collingwood Town Hall, Fitzroy Town Hall, and Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium. Each space brings its own unique character—be it the 19th-century grandeur of historic town halls or the enchanting aquatic backdrop of the aquarium—providing an immersive setting enhanced by thousands of candles. These distinctive venues create an unforgettable atmosphere for live classical music, making each performance feel truly magical.

There are several reasons to attend Candlelight concerts, where the gentle glow of countless candles elevates both the ambiance and the music, creating an experience far beyond a typical concert. The reimagined performances breathe new life into beloved classics and modern favourites, offering audiences a fresh perspective on familiar melodies. Set within striking venues, these events invite a sense of closeness between musicians and listeners, turning each gathering into a memorable moment filled with emotion, connection, and a unique atmosphere that lingers long after.