Setting the stage: State Theatre dinner at Arts Centre Melbourne

It is the ultimate show-stopper. The moment that elevates an already-enjoyable event to one that is unforgettable, and remarkable. A black curtain is raised, and suddenly you’re looking out onto the string section of the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, three tiers of theatre seating and the realisation that you are currently dining on the State Theatre stage at Arts Centre Melbourne.

“The idea is completely unassuming,” smiles Steve Bayliss, the head of sales and events for Arts Centre Melbourne. “Then the curtain at the front of the stage goes up and the guests realise they’re on the State Theatre stage and it’s just amazing.”

Seasoned corporate professionals could be forgiven for suffering from event fatigue. There go the goat’s cheese canapes. There are pretty flower arrangements. And, right on time, here come the speeches.

It can be difficult to find a space that inspires, transports and delights even the most experienced clientele. The team at Arts Centre Melbourne know this better than anyone.

“The corporate market is always looking for new experiences”, says Steve. “Typically, they’re confined to one space, a space that has minimal ability to change.

“Here, we can offer both a totally blank space to begin with, and then an amazing, unique experience like this. And being able to offer that kind of experience, it really is a pleasure.”

Unique and amazing is right. Watching the string section of the MSO play through their chosen concerto, the regal red-tiered seating of the State Theatre forming an incredible backdrop, it is an awesome experience, even for those of us present for just the set-up. One can only imagine how the guests must feel once that black curtain rises, the MSO serenading them with world-class classical music.

“Holding a dinner overlooking the auditorium truly makes your guests feel like they are a star for the night,” says event sales manager Dominoe Aranyi.

You’d be forgiven for thinking that the planning and execution of such an event would take weeks if not months.

“Ideally, it is great to have a few months lead time to put something like this together,” explains Dominoe. “But our team can come together in a month if need be to create something spectacular.”

"For this particular dinner tonight, we received the brief six weeks ago,” says Steve. “And bump-in began this morning at 10 am.”

Just six weeks to plan such a remarkable event, and less than 10 hours to completely transform this blank canvas into a refined event space suitable for the most distinguished of guests.

That’s not to say it’s a particularly simple process.

For an event of this nature, Arts Centre Melbourne's events team have to find a time when the stage isn’t in use and be wary of any shows that may be using the theatre. They need to coordinate with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra team, select the music and allow enough time for rehearsal. And on the day of the bump-in, they need to install the necessary rigging and lighting – for which there is a separate lighting manager who calls the cues for the event, as they would any production.

“One of the challenges is this event crosses five different departments,” says Steve.

“The amount of people and departments that come together to pull this off is amazing,” says Steve, with admiration for the team that surrounds him. “And the key really is communication. It’s really important that we communicate effectively with one another.”

If this event is any measure, it’s safe to say the channels of communication between the teams at Arts Centre Melbourne are well and truly open. With less than an hour to go, there’s no yelling, no running – it’s just quiet, with staff purposefully adding the finishing touches. Everyone knows their position and their individual role.

So, when the curtain closes at the end of the night, it is safe to assume the event was a smashing success.

Home to the Australian Ballet and Opera Australia, Arts Centre Melbourne has become increasingly popular for the corporate market and other social gatherings. For those lucky enough to attend, it is an experience that will stay with them forever - a memorable evening of impeccable food and world-class entertainment, set against the majestic backdrop of one of Australia’s most iconic venues.

Discover how you can take your event to the next stage with Arts Centre Melbourne >>

Feature image credit: Image of Melbourne Symphony Orchestra by Mark Gambino, courtesy Arts Centre Melbourne.

 

Arts Centre Melbourne Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Arts Centre Melbourne located?

Arts Centre Melbourne is located at 100 St Kilda Road, Southbank Victoria 3004, Australia.

How do I get to the Arts Centre in Melbourne?

By train

Get off at Flinders Street Station in the Melbourne CBD and walk for a few minutes along St Kilda Road, over Princes Bridge and the Yarra River.

By tram

The tram routes that stop in front of Arts Centre Melbourne are 1, 3, 3a, 5, 6, 16, 64, 67 and 72. This stop is number 14 – “Arts Precinct.

By car

There is a dedicated car parking at Arts Centre Melbourne, as well as several car parks nearby.

For more information on the closest car parks and public transport links, please visit the Arts Centre Melbourne website.

What events can I hold at the Arts Centre Melbourne?

A wide range of the arts can find a wide variety of events held at Arts Centre Melbourne. From music and theatre to dance, comedy, film screenings, broadway musicals and art exhibitions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy! The Arts Centre also offers private hire options including wedding receptions and corporate functions such as product launches or conferences. There are even special events such asunchtime concerts in the Hamer Hall foyer, or special VIP dinners overlooking the auditorium.

What facilities are available?

Arts Centre Melbourne offers a wide range of world-class facilities to make your event experience as memorable and enjoyable as possible. These include a fully equipped theatre venue, professionally managed audio-visual systems and technical support.

Lounge and bar facilities are also available, with a full range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. There's a selection of catering options, from plated dinners to cocktail parties.

What are the dining options at Arts Centre Melbourne?

Located on the ground floor of the Theatres Building, The Barre is a popular spot for theatre-goers. Whether for a pre-show dinner, when excitement is high, or for a post-show drink, when conversation and reflection are more likely, visitors love to gather here. Both bar and eatery, its modern Australian menu emphasises fresh seasonal ingredients and seasonal produce in small bites and larger offerings for sharing (or hungry types). They also have great wine and a classic cocktail list.

There is also an al fresco café located right on Melbourne's favourite boulevard called Cento. This cafe offers light snacks and meals such as coffee, sandwiches and pastries, perfect for a mid-show snack or pre-performance energiser.

For larger events, the Arts Centre Melbourne can provide high-quality catering services with a selection of delicious approved caterers to choose from.