Melbourne's lively theatre scene offers everything from experimental works to mainstream Broadway-style blockbusters like Miss Saigon or Phantom of the Opera. What's more, the city can offer them in truly beautiful and historic theatres such as Her Majesty's and the Princess Theatre (see details below). There is a full range of cinemas from Hoyts and Village blockbuster multiplexes to art house (see details below). In summer, the Moonlight Cinema in the beautiful surrounds of the Royal Botanical Gardens is magical. Melbourne is widely regarded as the live music capital of Australia. Everyone who is anyone in the Australian music scene plays here regularly, and almost-legendary venues such as the Corner in Richmond and The Espy in St Kilda are packed most nights. Check the local press for details. Those with more discerning musical tastes will enjoy the many classical concerts available at the Arts Centre on St Kilda Road. Phone (03) 9281 8000 or visit www. vicartscentre.com.au.
Melbourne's club scene is large and varied but concentrated in a few districts. King Street, in the city centre, is home to several large and well known establishments. Brunswick and Smith Streets in Fitzroy cater to a more bohemian, alternative crowd with smaller venues such as the Night Cat and Planet Afrik for jazz, African and Latin music. St Kilda, home to Monkey, Twister and the Prince of Wales, is also a lively part of town.
The Crown Entertainment Complex is home to a variety of establishments, from cabaret to wine bars, a jazz club and the popular Heat discotheque. Its casino is one of the largest in the world. Art lovers should be sure to check out the massive bluestone National Gallery of Victoria on St Kilda Road (next to the Arts Centre) which has just reopened after massive renovations. Also worth a visit is the Ian Potter Centre at Federation. Go to www.ngv.vic.gov.au.
The Queen Victoria Market (Elizabeth and Victoria streets) is the largest outdoor market in the world. Opened in 1878, it has more than 1,000 stalls selling craft, shoes, clothes, souvenirs, plants and food. Melbourne is surrounded by parklands. At the top of the city (Spring Street) are the Treasury and Fitzroy gardens with a conservatory of floral displays, a model Tudor village and avenues of large elm trees. Across the Yarra are the Royal Botanic Gardens at the Domain. Beautiful sweeping lawns surround large ornamental lakes, and there are tea rooms, a restaurant and picnic areas. The Domain is also home to the Shrine of Remembrance and the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art.