Melbourne is home to a number of exquisite old theatres, all rich in history and beautifully constructed. The major theatres are regularly occupied with performances ranging from musicals and plays to stand-up comedy and dance.
Regent Theatre
One of the city’s largest theatres, the Regent holds almost 2200 patrons and is situated in the “Paris” end of Collins Street. Originally constructed as a picture theatre in 1929, the building lay derelict for almost three decades until it was restored to its former glory in the 1990s.
Her Majesty’s Theatre
Built in 1886, Her Majesty’s Theatre is a heritage-listed, 1700+ seat theatre located on Exhibition Street. “Her Maj” was the scene of Dame Nellie Melba’s first opera performance, as well as appearances from Anna Pavlova and Dame Margot Fonteyn. The theatre was refurbished in 2002, but retains its original façade and art deco interior.
Princess Theatre
The Princess Theatre is one of the grandest Victorian theatres in the world, and home to some of Melbourne’s largest theatre productions. Built in 1854, the 1488-seat theatre sits on the corner of Exhibition and Lonsdale Streets and is listed on the Victorian Heritage Register.
Athenaeum Theatre
Completed in 1842, the Melbourne Athenaeum is one of the oldest public institutions in the state of Victoria. Today, the Athenaeum presents a range of popular theatre and is used regularly by the Bell Shakespeare Company and the Melbourne Comedy Festival.
Clarion Suites Gateway hotel is located in the centre of Melbourne’s CBD – right in the heart of the city’s theatre hub. Experience the very best of Melbourne theatre from the best seat in the house!
