From international rock legends AC/DC to Australia's first superstar Dame Nellie Melba, Arts Centre Melbourne's exhibition program shares the stories of our most acclaimed performers, whilst also celebrating the rich history of lesser-known aspects of the performing arts.
Exhibitions are free and open to the public for extended hours when performances are on in the Theatres Building (under the spire). You can also take a self-guided tour of the Public Art Collection on display in Hamer Hall using Collections On Cue.
Permanent Collection
Arts Centre Melbourne's Performing Arts Collection is the national leader among specialist performing arts collections in Australia. Established in 1975, it is formally recognised as a State Collection and encompasses the history of circus, dance, music, opera and theatre. The Collection features over 510,000 items including costumes, designs, photographs, set models, puppets, props, posters, programs and archives.
Online collection
From an internationally-renowned Australian Performing Arts Collection to the ground-breaking initiative of the Australian Music Vault, Arts Centre Melbourne celebrates the nation's performing arts heritage.
Discover Arts Centre Melbourne’s Performing Arts Collection online: artscentremelbourne.com.au/discover/collections-and-research
getting to the gallery
Train & Tram
Arts Centre Melbourne is a couple of minutes walk from Flinders Street Station or take any tram (except tram no.1) along St Kilda Road and disembark at Arts Centre Melbourne, Stop number 14.
The free Melbourne City Tourist Shuttle runs in a loop through Melbourne's CBD every 30 minutes, and stops at Arts Centre Melbourne on St Kilda Road (Stop 1). For more information please visit That's Melbourne.
By Car
A variety of parking options are available at Arts Centre Melbourne. Detailed information about the Car Park can be found here.
Melway Reference: 2F G7
accessibility
Wheelchair access throughout the building. Wheelchairs can be booked through the Concierge. Please call 9281 8298 if you require assistance. Disabled toilets and baby change facilities available.
cafe & gallery shop
Café Vic
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 10.30am to late; Sunday 10.30am – 5pm. (Note: opening and closing times are subject to performances in the Theatres Building and may change without notice.)Tel: 61 3 9281 8071
Settle in and soak up the atmosphere post show while enjoying a glass of bubbles and a plate of antipasto, or choose to feast from a delicious range of hot main courses, salads and desserts.
Gift Shop
Merchandise can be purchased from the concierge seven days a week from 9am to 10pm. T: +61 3 9281 8298.
Give the gift of timeless style with our beautiful range of performance inspired merchandise. Each item is artistically created and integrates the stunning elements of Melbourne's iconic Arts Centre. Alternatively, take home your own piece of Arts Centre Melbourne by choosing from our extensive selection of umbrellas, scarves, classic key rings and handy carry bags all of which sport a subtle and modern design of the iconic spire.
Image: David Simmonds Photography