Malthouse Theatre upgrades to boost appeal of Melbourne Arts Precinct

Melbourne’s Malthouse Theatre will receive an investment of $4.6 million from the Victorian Government to upgrade its facilities and enliven the Southbank arts precinct to provide Victorians access to a wider range of outdoor performances.

The upgrade will secure the successful Outdoor Stage as an annual fixture on the Malthouse Theatre’s calendar, while improving conditions and comfort for patrons and helping to preserve the historic Southbank building.

Supported by the Victorian Government and Sidney Myer Fund, the Outdoor Stage has been a popular addition to the theatre’s offering, with more than 25,000 people attending 80 live music, comedy and cabaret performances and literary events in the past two years.

Building works will begin in June and the stage will be ready to welcome audiences in time for the Malthouse’s 2022/23 summer season.

Audiences will enjoy a refurbished foyer and easier access to facilities including a resurfaced courtyard and a redesigned bar to provide better service to outdoor crowds.

Infrastructure works will allow more ambitious performances with new lighting, stage footings and an outdoor tech-desk – while artists will be supported with upgrades to the Malthouse workshop, providing a dedicated green room for the Outdoor Stage.

Works will also rejuvenate the Southbank building with restorative works and upgrades to include replacement of the roof.

The improvements will bolster the broad appeal of the Melbourne Arts Precinct while providing long-term benefits to Malthouse along with its creative neighbours, Australian Centre for Contemporary Art (ACCA) and Chunky Move.

Malthouse Theatre Executive Producer and Co-Chief Executive Sarah Neal notes “It’s been 42 years since the iconic Malthouse was converted into our beloved theatre venue and 20 years since our neighbours, ACCA and Chunky Move, joined us to create this precinct of creative practice.”

“This vital infrastructure support from the Victorian Government will help us to ensure our precinct is a vibrant and active place for artists and audiences, well into the future.”

Victorian Minister for Creative Industries Danny Pearson notes “whether it’s catching a gig, live theatre or a movie under the stars, Victorians love experiencing the arts outdoors and these upgrades will make an amazing space even better.”

“We’re making sure Victoria’s beloved cultural destinations continue to offer the best creative experiences, while providing even more reasons for people to visit Australia’s culture capital.”

Images courtesy Malthouse Theatre