Part of the Melbourne Athenaeum—a culturally-significant public institution that originated as the Melbourne Mechanics’ Institute back in 1839—The Athenaeum Theatre in Melbourne 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 musicals, lectures, exhibitions, classical concerts, and theatrical performances.
This year, Candlelight at The Athenaeum will breathe new life into iconic songs and compositions, decorating one of the theatre’s stages with countless flickering candles.
Background on The Athenaeum Theatre
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.
What can you do at The Athenaeum Theatre?
There’s loads to discover here. Firstly, it is the main venue for the Melbourne International Comedy Festival and Melbourne Opera. What’s more, The Athenaeum regularly stages local and international theatrical productions, burlesque performances, comedy shows and live music concerts.
In fact, The Athenaeum Theatre Candlelight series takes place inside its second venue (The Anthenaeum Theatre 2) throughout the year, seating 320 guests. Featuring talented musicians and wrapping the historic venue in a golden glow, these shows pay homage to musical legends, from Vivaldi to Queen.
Where is The Athenaeum Theatre and how to get there?
The theatre is located in Melbourne’s CBD on 188 Collins St. Due to its central location, The Athenaeum Theatre in Melbourne is easily reachable by public transport. Flinders Street Station is only a block away, but you can also get there by tram (any tram running along Collins Street) or bus (around Queen Street and Lonsdale/Collins Streets).
Is there parking near The Athenaeum Theatre?
No, there’s no on-site parking. However, there’s parking at Westin Hotel Car Park on Collins Street.
Is there a dress code?
No, there’s no dress code.
What is the capacity of the Athenaeum Theatre Melbourne?
The theatre boasts a 863-seater auditorium that is usually used for plays and musicals, and a smaller 320-seater space for intimate performances.
Nearby Venues
Five minutes’ walk from the theatre are Melbourne Town Hall, Capitol Theatre and Plaza Ballroom. For those that want to grab a bite after catching a show, restaurants near The Athenaeum Theatre include Meatmaiden, Embla, The George on Collins and Bistrot d’Orsay.
The Athenaeum Theatre is also one of the few carefully selected Candlelight venues in Melbourne, alongside the likes of SEA LIFE Melbourne and Fitzroy Town Hall.