Part of the Melbourne Athenaeum—a culturally-significant public institution that originated as the Melbourne Mechanics’ Institute back in 1839—The Athenaeum Theatre reflects the history of the city’s development. Besides being one of the first venues in Australia to screen films, over the years, the neoclassical building has hosted an array of fascinating lectures, exhibitions, concerts, and theatrical performances.
1. What is the history of the Athenaeum Theatre Melbourne?
Nowadays, the theatre is an integral part of the city’s East End Theatre District. However, during its inception, the institution was meant to be used for educational purposes only. As the city grew, The Melbourne Athenaeum Library was born, leading to the construction of a performance hall three decades later. In addition to its historical importance, the building also has great architectural value, with the façade boasting stuccoed pilasters and a statue of Athena, symbolizing wisdom and the arts.
2. What can you do at The Athenaeum Theatre?
There’s loads to discover at The Athenaeum Melbourne. Firstly, it is the main venue for the Melbourne International Comedy Festival and Melbourne Opera. What’s more, the theatre regularly stages local and international theatrical productions, burlesque performances and concerts, including the captivating Candlelight series. Featuring talented musicians and wrapping the historic venue in a golden glow, these shows pay homage to musical legends, from Vivaldi to Queen and Nirvana.
3. Where is the Athenaeum Theatre in Melbourne?
The venue is located in the heart of the CBD at 188 Collins Street, right around the corner from Melbourne Town Hall.
4. How many Athenaeums are there?
There are dozens of cultural centers and libraries across the world named after Athena or inspired by the ancient Greek tradition of promoting learning and discourse, particularly in North America and the UK. In Melbourne alone, there are around five Athenaeums but the theatre has no direct institutional ties to any of them. The only similarity lies in its common heritage as part of the broader Mechanics’ Institute movement.
5. How much does it cost to join The Athenaeum?
Although it bears the same name, The Athenaeum Club Melbourne is a separate entity, located minutes away from the theatre. The private social club has a member-based support policy and the cost varies depending on membership category.
6. Can I visit The Melbourne Athenaeum Library?
Whether you want to attend a lecture or look around the library’s 30’000-piece collection, The Melbourne Athenaeum Library opens six days per week (except Sunday) for any visitor. However, if you wish to use the Reading Room or the library services for an extended period, you need to become a member first.
Due to its central location, The Athenaeum Theatre is easily reachable by public transport. Flinders Street Station is only a block away, but you can also get there by tram or bus. The box office is open Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm and Saturday 10am-4pm, and performances typically take place in the evenings.
For avid music lovers, the upcoming Candlelight concerts at the theatre will add some extra magic and wonder to the storied venue. This is however only one of the many incredible Candlelight venues in Melbourne hosting these mesmerising classical performances.