Music

Arts Centre Melbourne turns 30

One of Melbourne’s most recognisable and iconic landmarks, Arts Centre Melbourne, celebrated its 30th anniversary recently.

On October 29, 1984 the quest for a world-class performing arts centre was realised when Hamer Hall (then Concert Hall), the Sidney Myer Music Bowl and Theatres Building, including the famous spire, became The Victorian Arts Centre (now Arts Centre Melbourne).

Arts Centre Melbourne is a much-loved part of Victoria’s performing arts scene and over three decades has hosted millions of patrons, thousands of shows and productions as well as many of the biggest names in the entertainment industry.

Ticketmaster and Arts Centre Melbourne share a unique bond. More than 30 years ago, the two companies began their relationship when the Victorian government, under the auspices of the Victorian Arts Centre Trust, owned and operated BASS Victoria, which was later privatised and became TicketmasterBASS in 1995.

Ticketmaster in its current form has been a partner of Arts Centre Melbourne for many years and is extremely proud to have contributed to the success of the venues via ticket sales.

In 2013 alone, Arts Centre Melbourne engaged with more than 3.1 million people and hosted in excess of 3,300 performances and events, making it the busiest performing arts centre in Australia. Arts Centre Melbourne is home to many of Australia’s best performing arts companies with residents including Opera Australia, The Australian Ballet, Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and Melbourne Theatre Company.

As well as exhibiting incredible Australian artists, Arts Centre Melbourne has hosted many of the world’s best performers including Pavarotti, Dame Kiri te Kanawa, John Williams and KD Lang as well as countless ballet, musical, comedy and dramatic performances. The Sidney Myer Music Bowl has also played host to a long list of local and international performers and hosts the annual Carols by Candlelight, which is a Christmas tradition for so many Australians.

Add to this the Sunday markets and the many free activities and gallery displays and it is any wonder Arts Centre Melbourne is loved by so many. In celebration of Arts Centre Melbourne’s 30th anniversary, the venue is creating a time capsule to be opened in another 30 years.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Arts Centre Melbourne continues to bring many amazing events to Victorian audiences. Below we have listed our top upcoming events at Arts Centre Melbourne!

Hamer Hall

Elaine Page and the Broadway Orchestra
December 6, 8pm

When it comes to musical theatre, Elaine Page has done it all! She starred as Evita Peron in the original Evita and other credits include parts in Cats, Hair, Jesus Christ Superstar, Sunset Boulevard and The King & I. Elaine Page has also recorded 18 solo albums. Joined on stage by a 30-piece orchestra, Elaine Page is one not to be missed.

Click here to purchase tickets.

Australian Pops Orchestra New Year’s Eve Concerts
December 31, 2pm and 8pm

Celebrate New Year’s Eve in style at the beautiful Arts Centre Melbourne Hamer Hall. The 65-piece Australian Pops Orchestra will be joined by some of Australia’s most incredible voices including Denis Walter, Kate Ceberano, Mark Vincent and the Victorian Opera.

Click here to purchase tickets.

Billy Connolly – High Horse Tour
January 28, 30, 31 and February 2, 8pm

One of the world’s funniest men, Billy Connolly, is performing his High Horse Tour at Hamer Hall in 2015. The Scottish comedian is known for his incredible live shows and regularly plays to sold out venues around the world.

Click here to purchase tickets.

Sarah McLachlan
February 4, 7.30pm

Everyone should see Sarah McLachlan live at least once in their lifetime. One of the most respected and celebrated performers of all time, Sarah McLachlan has sold more than 40 million albums and has many classic songs including Angel and I Will Remember You.

Click here to purchase tickets.

Nana Mouskouri
April 14, 8pm

Nana Mouskouri – the legendary Greek superstar – will perform on our shores in April 2015. Having sold more than 300 million albums, Nana Mouskouri is one of the most celebrated female vocalists of all time. Her tour also coincides with her 80th birthday!

Click here to purchase tickets.

Theatres Building

Giggle and Hoot
Arts Centre Playhouse
December 17-21, 10am, 12.30pm and 3pm (times vary each day)

Giggle and Hoot will be joined by Bananas in Pyjamas and Hoopla Doopla’s Zap, Mimi and Jango on stage for an unforgettable performance that will delight the kids! The performance is full of singing and dancing and children are encouraged to join in the fun and games.

Click here to purchase tickets.

The Sleeping Beauty
State Theatre
December 17, 7.30pm and December 18, 1.30pm and 7.30pm

One of the best-loved and most-beautiful ballets will come to life on stage as the Australian Conservatoire of Ballet performs The Sleeping Beauty. The production will feature 75 dancers, special guests and the 70 member ACB Orchestra.

Click here to purchase tickets.

I, Malvolio
Fairfax Studio
January 6-11, various times

I, Malvolio is written and performed by Tim Crouch and is the reimagining of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night. The brilliant one-man show explores the timeless story of prudery, bullying and practical jokes and it has something for everyone!

Click here to purchase tickets.

The Illusionists 2.0
State Theatre
January 16-25, various times

Be mesmerised by the biggest magic show on the planet! The illusionists 2.0, featuring the Deceptionist, the Weapons Master, the Unusualist and others, will blow your mind. Their incredible show features amazing magic, visual effects and 3D projections.

Click here to purchase tickets.

Thriller Live
State Theatre
January 28-February 8, various times

The King of Pop, Michael Jackson will come to life on stage with Thriller Live. The incredible production celebrates the life and music of one of pop’s most celebrated and successful performers. With all his incredible hits as well as amazing dancing and performances, Thriller Live is one show you cannot miss.

Click here to purchase tickets.

Sidney Myer Music Bowl

Vision Australia’s Carols by Candlelight
December 24, 8pm

The Christmas Eve Carols by Candlelight is a Melbourne institution, which has been going for 76 years. As always, the event attracts incredible local entertainers and features great children’s performers as well as a special visit from Santa Claus. The event raises money and awareness for Vision Australia and has become a tradition for many Australians.

Click here to purchase tickets.

Above & Beyond
January 1, 3pm

Kick start the New Year with an incredible performance from musical trio Above & Beyond. The New Year’s Day holiday should be spent with friends and family in the glorious Melbourne sunshine. So what better way to celebrate than with some awesome music and great company at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl!

Click here to purchase tickets.

Nelly, Lupe Fiasco and B.o.B
January 16, 6.30pm

Three of hip hop’s finest will perform at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl on January 16. Grammy-award winner Nelly will be joined by Lupe Fiasco and B.o.B for the ultimate hip hop concert. Each of the performers are successful and unique, which makes this event one you will want to see.

Click here to purchase tickets.

The Kooks
January 24, 6.30pm

The Kooks are returning to Australia and they will be joined by The Griswolds and Catfish and the Bottlemen on their tour, which includes a date at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl on January 24. The Kooks have loads of hits and are sure to put on a fantastic show.

Click here to purchase tickets.