Palais Theatre: A St Kilda Icon
Experience the grandeur of Melbourne's Palais Theatre, a historic landmark offering diverse entertainment in a stunning, ornate setting.
The Palais Theatre, located in the vibrant St Kilda neighborhood of Melbourne, is a landmark entertainment venue with a rich history. Opened in 1927 as Palais Pictures, replacing an earlier cinema destroyed by fire, it quickly became known as 'Australia's Wonder Theatre'. The Phillips brothers, American showmen, commissioned architect Henry Eli White to create a grander theatre, which would become the largest seated theatre in Australia, accommodating nearly 3,000 people. The Palais's architecture is an eclectic mix of styles, typical of 1920s picture theatres. While architect Henry White claimed no particular style, the interior has been described as Spanish, French, Oriental, and Italian. The exterior features Spanish Baroque detailing on the towers, while the interior showcases neoclassical elements with tall columns, pilasters, and a shallow dome. The ornate design includes textured plaster surfaces and concealed lighting, contributing to its unique atmosphere. Originally a cinema, the Palais transitioned to a live entertainment venue in the 1950s. It has hosted ballet performances, operas, stand-up comedy shows, and concerts by international stars like The Rolling Stones and Shirley Bassey. The Palais Theatre is listed on the Victorian Heritage Register and was inducted into the Music Victoria Hall of Fame in 2015, solidifying its cultural significance. Visitors can marvel at the theatre's architecture, attend a diverse range of performances, and appreciate its historical significance. The Palais Theatre continues to be a premier destination for arts and entertainment in Melbourne.
Local tips
- Check the Palais Theatre's website for upcoming events and to purchase tickets in advance.
- Consider arriving early to allow time for parking, especially on weekends and during popular events.
- Explore the St Kilda foreshore and nearby Luna Park before or after your visit to the Palais Theatre.
- Utilize public transport options, such as trams and trains, to reach the theatre and avoid parking hassles.
A brief summary to Palais Theatre
- Lower Esplanade, St Kilda, Victoria, 3182, AU
- +61385377677
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
Getting There
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Public Transport
The Palais Theatre is easily accessible by public transport. From Melbourne CBD, take Tram 16 directly to the 'Luna Park/The Esplanade' stop (Stop 138), which is a 1-minute walk to the theatre. The ride costs approximately $5.30. Alternatively, take the train to Balaclava Station on the Sandringham line, then transfer to Tram 16. Several bus routes also stop near the Palais Theatre.
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Driving
If driving, several parking options are available near the Palais Theatre, including the St Kilda Triangle Car Park and Luna Park Car Park. Parking costs vary, with hourly rates ranging from $4 to $10, and daily rates from $20 to $40. Limited street parking is also available, but it is mostly paid parking. Accessible parking spots are available on Cavell Street for Category 1 permit holders.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Didi are readily available in Melbourne and can drop you off directly at the Palais Theatre on Cavell Street. A short trip from St Kilda Junction would cost approximately $10-$15, depending on traffic and surge pricing. A taxi rank is located on Acland Street near the Carlisle Street intersection.
