Melbourne’s Palais Theatre Unveils Overhaul

The heritage-protected building in the bayside suburb of St Kilda, which opened in 1919, is the largest seated theatre in Australia. It has needed repairs for years, and continued to host events with scaffolding on the exterior.

It almost closed in 2014 as the Victorian state government and the local council argued over funding. But a Nov. 25 media call by Creative Industries Minister Martin Foley and Heritage Victoria executive director Tim Smith noted that A$20 million ($14.9 million) worth of renovations has begun. These will include upgrades to the electrical system, fire protection and hydraulic systems – parts of which are unsafe – along with more women’s toilets.

These are expected to be completed by May 2017. The venue also needs new seats and air conditioning. The revamp will also see the off-white-painted venue return to its original sandstone colour.

Foley said, “We promised to save the Palais – and we’re doing just that. The work currently being done will ensure it remains an important part of St Kilda’s culture and Victoria’s live music scene for many years to come.”

LN has committed to a further A$7 million ($5.2 million) worth of works in the next five years, when it won its 30-year A$60 million ($44.8 million) lease in July. The Palais hosts around 100 performances each year.