The Brunswick Ballroom opens its doors!
Located in the old Metropolis House on Sydney Road, The Brunswick Ballroom is the newest live music and cabaret spot to hit Melbourne.
The venue was once a hat factory, a nightclub, a reception venue, a French restaurant, and most recently the live music venue The Spotted Mallard. Now, it’s been reinvigorated as a new performance space, inspired by the iconic Prahran Continental Cafe of the ’90s.
The venue itself is beautiful. Entering from street level, you’re greeted by a dramatic staircase. The foyer is currently displaying the works of David Parker, showcasing a rich history of music in Melbourne throughout the 1970s and 1980s.
Walking up the main stairway takes you into the newly revamped Ballroom. Stunning drapes and brocade wallpaper adorn the surrounding walls, and two gorgeous stained glass windows inspired by Leonard French sit in the centre of the ceiling, shining beautifully down on the audience space.
AussieTheatre attended the Gala launch, a dazzling display of Australia’s finest talents. Emcees Margot Tanjutco and Eddie Perfect not only made for great hosts, but also offered us several performances of their own, including a fabulous ode to Melbourne’s Laneways. Ash Flanders, Jude Perl, Vidya Makan, Jess Hitchcock, Mama Alto, and Bert LaBonté rounded out the performers for the evening, showcasing a beautiful array of ballads, rousing anthems, and even the cheeky comedy number.
The auditorium seats up to 290 people, and is reminiscent of cabaret venues like Joe’s Pub in New York and Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club in London. The Ballroom already has a formidable lineup of events over the next few weeks, including hosting shows from the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, The Brunswick Music Festival, and many many more.
To check out the Brunswick Ballroom program and to book tickets, visit www.brunswickballroom.com.au
