Arts Centre Melbourne has unveiled an exciting addition to its lineup of performance spaces with the inauguration of The Show Room, a cozy 150-seat studio theatre designed to bring audiences up close and personal with cutting-edge theatre, music, and dance performances.
Officially announced today, this new venue promises to enrich Melbourne’s cultural landscape by showcasing both emerging talents and established artists in an intimate setting.
The Show Room’s 2024 program is set to captivate audiences with a diverse array of productions. Among the highlights is Little Murmur, an international contemporary dance production by Aakash Odedra and Lewis Major, which kicks off the season from July 27 to August 4. Following this, audiences can enjoy the stage adaptation of the beloved children’s book Grug, running from September 11 to 15, offering a delightful experience for families.
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Continuing the momentum, from October 2 to 6, The Show Room presents Private View, a poignant piece by Restless Dance Theatre as part of the Alter State initiative. This is followed by Werewolf, a compelling drama exploring modern extremism, scheduled from October 16 to 26. This production promises to provoke thought and discussion on contemporary societal issues.
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The Australian Ballet takes the stage with Bodytorque, a showcase of contemporary dance works, from October 28 to November 3, supporting emerging choreographic talents. Renowned Beijing theatre director Wang Chong 王翀 returns with Made in China 2.0 from November 6 to 16, offering a deeply personal and thought-provoking solo performance. Closing the season is Cruel Britannia: After Frankenstein by Kristen Smyth, a bold reinterpretation of Mary Shelley’s classic, running from November 20 to 30, promising a gritty exploration of a dystopian world.
“The curated, site-specific program allows us to engage with the broader Victorian and international performing arts communities in completely new ways,” said Stephen Armstrong, Director of Programming at Arts Centre Melbourne.
The creation of The Show Room represents a pivotal moment for Arts Centre Melbourne, coinciding with the refurbishment of the State Theatre until 2027. This new venue not only expands their artistic offerings but also underscores their commitment to supporting creativity and innovation in the arts. It stands alongside iconic venues like Hamer Hall, the Sidney Myer Music Bowl, the Fairfax Studio, and the Playhouse, enhancing Melbourne’s reputation as a hub for world-class performances.
As Arts Centre Melbourne prepares to debut The Show Room, anticipation is high for the impact this intimate venue will have on Melbourne’s cultural scene. With a lineup that spans genres and perspectives, The Show Room promises to be a dynamic addition to the city’s vibrant arts community, inviting audiences to engage deeply with transformative performances throughout 2024 and beyond.
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