A stunning new destination for live performances and events has landed in Melbourne. Once used as a storage space, this hidden room at the uppermost level of the Melbourne Recital Centre has been transformed into an intimate, new cultural venue. Look forward to cabaret, contemporary music, jazz, musical theatre and First Nations performances, while taking in sweeping skyline views. The space is suitable for both public events and private functions. The Beacon will open to the public at Melbourne Recital Centre on Thursday, September 17.
The Beacon at Melbourne Recital Centre
“The idea for the Beacon began with a simple question: how could we use this space to bring people even closer to music?” said Sandra Willis, Melbourne Recital Centre CEO. “The answer was to build on everything we are known for, exceptional music, extraordinary artists and creating memorable experiences, and reimagine it in an entirely new setting.”
The building’s original architects, ARM Architecture, were brought back to transform the top level into a performance and events space. You’ll find a strong visual connection to the city in the design, and the space is suitable for musical experiences, ranging from solo piano and acoustic performance to amplified contemporary music.
The space features a large-scale spectrogram artwork, translating original composition ‘Look Above’ by First Nations artists Aunty Joy Murphy-Wandin AO and Dr Lou Bennett AM into a visual piece.
The Victorian Government invested $1 million into this transformation, which was matched by a $1 million philanthropic gift from Ruth and Peter McMullin AM.
“We wanted to help Melbourne Recital Centre create more opportunities for artists and reach audiences in new ways and continue the vital role it plays within Melbourne’s musical ecology,” said Peter McMullin.
What to expect
The inaugural program will have regular performances across the week, featuring both established and emerging artists. International cabaret star Meow Meow will open the venue with a three-night run of intimate performances, titled Meow Meow &Friend. After that, the shows will reflect the range of Melbourne’s music scene, covering jazz, Bach, musical theatre and First Nations-led programming.
Arrive early for a bit of food and drink before the show. You’ll find a selection of beer, wine, spirits, cocktails and soft drinks, which you can get delivered to your table. Graze on bites like arancini or a cheese plate, or try something more substantial, like 24-hour braised lamb shoulder. Dessert is also available if you’re after a sweet treat.
Tickets for shows at The Beacon are on sale now. To learn more about it, click here.
đź“Ť31 Sturt St, Southbank VIC 3006
