After more than 150 years at the heart of Melbourne cultural life, this spectacular and much-loved theatre continues to charm.
One of Melbourne’s most spectacular landmarks is without a doubt the gorgeous Princess Theatre, an elegant venue that hosts a variety of much-loved productions. Admire its magisterial architecture, catch a memorable show, and maybe even meet its friendly ghost in residence.
When the Princess Theatre was first opened, over 150 years ago, it was considered way ahead of its time. Not only did it have a retractable roof it had electrical stage lighting, too. After a period of decline and then a determined restoration, the theatre has become a cultural highlight of the city. Its radiant exterior and classic stained-glass windows are a testimony to the ambition and the heritage of this storied institution.
Today, both visitors and locals flock to see such legendary productions as Les Misérables and The Phantom of the Opera at the Princess Theatre. Take a trip there in the evening to see a performance at one of the city’s favourite venues. There are 1470 seats in the theatre, and these places are regularly all filled by eager crowds in the intimate setting.
Choose an event, buy your tickets, and head on inside. Enjoy the show from your own comfortable red chair. Booster cushions are available for children. Looking around the hall, take in the theatre’s lovely interior decorations, and admire the design of the roof.
According to local legend, the Princess Theatre is home to a ghost, the apparition of a former opera singer by the name of Federici. Poor Federici died of a heart attack in 1888, while performing on stage. Over the years, both actors and staff members have reported a number of supernatural sightings, and an ashen-faced phantom showed up in a documentary from the 1970s. The ghost is known to be friendly, however, and he is well enough looked after – every night, a seat in the Dress Circle is left vacant for him.
The Princess Theatre is located in central Melbourne, easily accessible with the metro or the free City Circle Tram. There are no age restrictions for events. Buy tickets in advance over the phone or online.
