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 Inspiring choral music |
Mont Albert Melbourne, VIC 3127 Australia +61 (0)3 9888 4898 http://home.vicnet.net.au/~abc... |
The Australian Boys Choir has developed significantly since its modest beginnings 60 years ago as a high school choir in Victoria. It is one of three vocal groups under the Australian Boys Choral Institute. Recognised as the country's oldest secular boys choir, it has upheld its choral excellence through a traditional training scheme that concentrates on an applicant's musicianship, rather than his age. The group has performed extensively throughout the US and took part in America Fest—a celebration of male choirs. The group performs nationally on a regular basis and can occasionally be seen with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Melbourne's best jazz |
25 Bennetts Lane Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia +61 (0)3 9663 2856 http://www.bennettslane.com/ |
This cosy bar is also Melbourne's premier jazz venue, run by jazz connoisseurs for jazz connoisseurs. On busy nights, punters crowd into every available space, including the stairs. Chatting during performances is frowned upon, but that is as far as the snobbery goes. At other times, this is a great place for conversation. Owner Michael Tortoni presents music he believes in rather than following fads, earning him accolades for his contribution to the jazz community. The jam sessions with visiting international artists after their Concert Hall performances are legendary. Cheese and fruit platters, cake, focaccia, basic spirits and house wine are available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Fergus Pitt |
 Focus on Australian theatre |
113 Sturt St Melbourne, VIC 3006 Australia +61 (0)3 9685 5111 |
The C.U.B. Malthouse was donated to the Playbox theater company in 1986 by Carlton United Breweries. It consists of two theatres—the Merlyn and the Beckett. Neither is large, with the Merlyn holding 500 and the Beckett 200. The connection to the Playbox means there is a strong accent on Australian theatre, but music, dance and events associated with Melbourne's festivals are held here, too. There is a coffee shop open from breakfast until after the shows. Call for prices of individual performances. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Peter Alderson |
 Photo: Peter Alderson |
 Class acts over dinner and a drink |
124 Burwood Rd Hawthorn Melbourne, VIC 3122 Australia +61 (0)3 9819 1797 http://www.capersmelbourne.com... |
Capers is a notable theater restaurant. It wishes to make the point that its food can stand on its own--it is not a mere add-on to the acts. That the food stands up to this is impressive, as the acts themselves are so good at Capers. It seats 120 odd, with good views even from the back. There is no smoking in the dining/viewing area, but has a pleasant lounge to which smokers can retire. Planning and booking ahead is advisable--there is a mailing list that is worth joining. See their website for further information. Food is available only during show times and private functions Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Melbourne Christmas Tradition |
21 Linlithgow Avenue (Sidney Myer Music Bowl) Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia +61 (0)3 9522 5222 |
This Christmas Eve event is a Melbourne tradition. Bring the family down to the lawns of the Sidney Myer Music Bowl for an open-air candlelit vigil, with the audience singing along with guest performers. Hosted for many years by perennially popular television host Ray Martin, the event is studded with stars of Australia's small screen, and is itself broadcast to the viewers throughout the state. Candles are provided, but alcohol and chairs are banned, so bring a blanket. The event is a fundraiser for the Royal Victorian Institute for the Blind. Admission: Adults AUD20.70; children AUD14.10. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Marc Richards |
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Performance paradise |
12 Little Chapel Street Prahran Melbourne, VIC 3181 Australia +61 3 9522 3382 |
Chapel Off Chapel is a business unit of the local Council and so has to remain financially viable while meeting the community's needs - and that means accessible prices. It holds a remarkable variety of performances, from play reading to live-to-radio-acts to different types of concerts, attracting such musical stars as Shirley Bassey and Wolfmother. Workshops are also a common occurrence. Often the performance area features a combination of theater seating plus tables and chairs. There is also a bar and an art gallery featuring local and renowned artists, which is open outside, as well as during, performance hours. Call to book for performances, and get on their mailing list - it's worth it. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
 Variety theatre |
154 Flinders Street Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia +61 3 9299 9700 http://www.marrinertheatres.co... |
The Forum opened the same year as the Regent--1929. But whereas the Regent is a rather classic style theatre, the Forum is architecturally an oddball. You cannot but notice it as you pass down Flinders Street. And the inside is equally unusual and ornate. These days it does not attempt to compete with the many old theatres in the city area. Instead the main, downstairs area is cabaret in style, though seating some 800 odd--a big cabaret! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mick Stanic  |
 Photo: Rupak Das |
 Photo: Janine Ferris |
 Photo: Nicholas G. Morieson |
 Photo: Anthony Steele |
 Photo: Gruntfuttock |
 Photo: Mick Stanic |
 Photo: Erika Andresen |
 Photo: Rohan Caldwell |
 Photo: Gruntfuttock |
 Photo: James Marallich |
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Victoria's biggest range of music |
85 Bourke Street Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia +61 (0)3 9650 9009 http://www.gaslight.com.au |
Winner of the best ARIA (Australian Record Industry Association) store in 1997, Gaslight has set the standard for choice in music for many years, with Victoria's largest range of local and imported CDs. There are 36,000 titles available and a special sale section with more than 5,000 CDs that change weekly. A comprehensive range of collectable CDs is always available, as well as videos including music, children's and movies; music memorabilia; DVDs; accessories and T-shirts. The store coordinates many alternative music events. The regular in-store performances by local and international artists are an experience not to be missed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Spin Spin |
 Photo: Spin Spin |
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Gasworks Theatre |
21 Graham Street Albert Park Melbourne, VIC 3206 Australia +61 3 8606 4200 http://www.gasworks.org.au/ |
"If not inevitable it is certainly likely these days that a theatre will be housed within a "complex". In this case the complex includes studios for artists, ceramists and sculptors, and a bookshop. Seating only 240 it is a focal point for the local community but hosts a wide range of shows including productions from interstate and overseas. The standard of its productions is high, and being a community-based venture its prices make theatre financially accessible to all." Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Do you get the vibe? |
Linlithgow Avenue & Alexandra Avenue, King's Domain Gardens Sidney Myer Music Bowl Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia +61 2 8295 9950 (Organizers - Sydney Office) http://www.jammusic.com.au/goo... |
The Good Vibrations Festival spreads its chilled-out vibes in Melbourne every February. Held at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl, it aims to establish an 'original festival spirit'. Past performers have included artistes like James Brown, Lady Kier, DJ Marky and the Cuban Bros. With three stages and a cocktail bar to keep the mood alive, it keeps on rocking. Lest you get hungry there are plenty of refreshment options at the venue. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Classical showcase |
Victorian Arts Centre 100 St. Kilda Road Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia +61 3 9281 8000 |
Victoria's key venue for major concerts and opera, the Hall also hosts the whole gamut of musical productions - from symphony orchestra to rock concerts. Although it is the largest venue in the Victorian Arts Centre, seating at least 2,400, its modern design gives all patrons a feeling of being close to the stage. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Burkhard Westphal |
 Photo: Becca & Brian Davis |
 Photo: John Raptis |
 Photo: Chuan Chew |
 Photo: mylene tong |
 Photo: Chris MacDonald |
 Photo: Jes |
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Splurge on original collectibles |
249-251 Elizabeth Street Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia +61 3 9642 5455 http://www.outregallery.com |
Decorating interiors with original works is not an expensive deal anymore; thanks to Outré gallery. Art collectors will find counter culture items here, which includes a limited collection of books, magazines, ceramics and vinyl toys. The merchandise is an eclectic mix of ethnic, contemporary, folk, pop and underground art. Splurge without second thoughts on these collectibles which are reasonably priced starting at AUD114. Subscribe to their publications to stay in touch with fresh fashions and designs in the art world. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Regent Theatre |
191 Collins Street Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia +61 (03) 9299 9600 http://www.marrinertheatres.co... |
The Regent might look old, but it is actually about the most modern of the old theatres in Melbourne, first opening in 1929. Its lavish décor, both in the theatre and in its foyer areas, brings to mind the West End of London. A small but attractive feature is generous room for legs. One can sit with another walking past, all without any fuss and bother. Quite the opposite of modern theatres. It hosts a range of events ranging from popular musicals to pop concerts. Binoculars can be hired. Admission: Prices vary according to performance, time, seats chosen, etc. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dean Melissinos |
 Photo: Aleksandar Lazic |
 Photo: Peter Eades |
 Photo: Stewart Thorn |
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Popular outdoor entertainment venue |
21 Linlithgow Avenue Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia +61 (0)3 9281 8000 |
This versatile venue is also a popular tourist attraction. Its unique structure consists of a thin acoustic canopy attached to a cobwebbed frame of steel cables. This structure protects the audience and stage from outside noise and unpredictable weather. The shielded area provides fixed seating of up to 2,000 and the surrounding lawns can accommodate up to 10,000. In the past it staged The Australian Ballet and has served as a temporary ice-skating rink. International rock acts have also performed sell-out shows here. Its most famous event is the annual Christmas Eve Carols by Candlelight, attracting thousands of Melburnians. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Peter Forster |
 Photo: Julia und Andreas Sellmeier |
 Photo: Tama Neill |
 Photo: Kerryn Findlay |
 Photo: Aymen Naim |
 Photo: Jack Banh |
 Photo: Scott Bridges |
 Photo: Christop Brooks-Boot |
 Photo: Will McCarthy |
 Photo: Kerry Slade kez2007 |
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Sports Mania |
740 Bourke Street Docklands Melbourne, VIC 3008 Australia +61 3 8625 7700 / +61 3 8625 7277 http://www.telstradome.com.au/ |
Catch the latest in sports and entertainment at Telstra Dome. Rugby Union, Rugby League, Soccer, Cricket, Basketball, Hockey, Wrestling, Boxing and Super Cross – this stadium offers it all. Formerly known as the Colonial Stadium, it is the first Australian stadium to have an enclosed roof, which stadium officials say is virtually impossible to be hit by match balls. There are even 2 giant screens, so that you catch all the action live and up close. With an entertainment complex which includes a pub, bar, restaurant, café, lounge, nightclub and live television studio, it offers more than just sporting action. Rooms for social, business and private functions are available. It also offers baby changing rooms. Take a tour to find out all the behind-the-scenes gossip. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: ~ Di ~ |
 Photo: Jes |
 Photo: Chris Brown |
 Photo: Anthony Malloy |
 Photo: Chas Pope |
 Photo: Timothy Hannan |
 Photo: Clayton Scott |
 Photo: Mandy Mason |
 Photo: Gil |
 Photo: Alex |
 Photo: Steve Thornton |
 Photo: Travis Walton |
 Photo: Anthony Agius |
 Photo: Alex |
 Photo: Monk Peabody |
 Photo: pleribus |
 Photo: Luke Philli |
 Photo: Bill and Jules |
 Photo: Stephanie Anelli |
 Photo: regonator |
 Photo: saddlerken |
 Photo: FriendsThinkTank |
 Photo: J Passmore |
 Photo: moritz.eggert |
 Photo: Isha Hartono |
 Photo: Melanie Linka |
 Photo: Cesar Garcia Hernand |
 Photo: Happy Little Nomad |
 Photo: jameswebbe |
 Photo: Richard Woodward |
 Photo: Lee Moyle |
 Photo: Steve Napier |
 Photo: Ray |
 Photo: carina_lobley |
 Photo: Jeff Reynolds |
 Photo: Phillip Calçado |
 Photo: Sarah Watson |
 Photo: Ricaurte |
 Photo: Carolyn Chen |
 Photo: philomglol |
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Jazz in the Jungle |
Elliott Avenue (Royal Melbourne Zoo) Melbourne, VIC 3052 Australia +61 (0)3 9285 9300 http://www.zoo.org.au |
This novel idea sees the Melbourne Zoo extend its opening hours for special twilight jazz concerts on Saturday and Sunday. Visitors can tour the animal exhibits (except for the platypus and gorilla enclosures) and take a peek at the nocturnal life of the creatures, before heading to the bandstand to hear some of Australia's top jazz performers with lions roaring and birds shrieking in the background. There are also special talks by zookeepers on nocturnal wildlife and barbecues available for an evening meal. Or you can ring in advance and book a picnic hamper. Admission: Adults AUD15.80; concession AUD11.70; children AUD7.80; family AUD42.60. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Experience Melbourne's Cultural Heart |
100 St Kilda Road Melbourne, VIC 3004 Australia +61 (0)3 9281 8000 http://www.theartscentre.net.au/ |
Melbourne is proud of its landmark Eiffel Tower, a sight to be seen, especially at night as birds attracted by the light circle the spire. The spire sits atop the Theatres Building, comprising a series of gallery and theatre spaces. You can wander through and visit the State Theatre, the George Adams Gallery and the Performing Arts Museum. There is also the Hamer Hall, a venue for major artists and the base for the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra. You can relax on the sloping lawns outside, where free concerts are held during summer. Admission is free unless attending a show. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Luke van Grieken |
 Photo: Oliver Parzer |
 Photo: Vincent Tan |
 Photo: Allyson Griffith |
 Photo: Linda Teng |
 Photo: Patrick Houlihan |
 Photo: Luke van Grieken |
 Photo: Shaun Nicholson |
 Photo: Cristopher Solis Chen |
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Vintage Vinyl |
176 Bellair Street Melbourne, VIC 3031 Australia +61 (0) 3 9376 5441 http://www.whiterabbitrecords.... |
The vinyl-era music scene lives again at white rabbit Record Bar. This unique establishment is a second-hand record shop, bar, café and music venue all rolled into one. The décor is an eclectic mix of retro finds, including orange pendant lights, string-bead curtains and cushions in bright geometric-print fabrics. Patrons can lounge by the fire or dine in the beer garden while enjoying big fried breakfasts, toasted snacks, imported beers and, of course, music from yesteryear. The place really comes alive on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, when guest DJs rock the place to a retro beat. -Jo-Anne Woodward Review © 2007, Wcities |