Stage set before the show began. Entertaining pre-show warning, request, threats to turn-off your cell phones, put away your cameras.
1 / 10

National Theatre Melbourne

4.4
·953 reviews·St Kilda, Australia

A historic St Kilda gem hosting diverse theatrical productions, from musicals to comedy, offering a vibrant arts experience.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings during show runs

Experience live theatre magic

CrowdMedium
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Stage set before the show began. Entertaining pre-show warning, request, threats to turn-off your cell phones, put away your cameras.

National Theatre Melbourne

Best Time

Evenings during show runs

Experience live theatre magic

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic St Kilda gem hosting diverse theatrical productions, from musicals to comedy, offering a vibrant arts experience.

4.4
(953 reviews)

"The National Theatre was just amazing and The Legally Blonde Play was just Mind blowing!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Popular shows like Legally Blonde sell out fast! Book in advance via booktickets.com.au to guarantee your seat.

📍 Check Entry Points

The main entrance may be under construction. Enter via Barkly Street for easier access.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Legally Blonde: The Musical

Legally Blonde: The Musical

Main Stage

A high-energy, feel-good production based on the iconic film. Expect dazzling performances and a powerful message.

Avenue Q

Avenue Q

Main Stage

A hilarious, adult-only puppet musical that's both irreverent and surprisingly touching. A must-see for comedy lovers.

Tarzan: The Musical

Tarzan: The Musical

Main Stage

Swing into adventure with this visually stunning musical adaptation of the beloved Disney story.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Popular Shows

Shows like 'Legally Blonde' and 'Avenue Q' sell out fast! Booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. Check official ticketing sites or the theatre's website.

Navigating the Venue

The National Theatre in St Kilda is a beautiful, historic building. Be aware that some areas might involve stairs, and the main entrance can be under construction. Check for alternative entry points like Barkly Street.

Best Times

When
Evenings during show runs
Why
Experience live theatre magic
Crowd
Medium
When
School holidays
Why
Family-friendly shows available
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Guess who’s singing? Legally Blonde: The Musical premieres on July 12th at National Theatre, St Kilda! Secure your tickets now at booktickets.com.au. Don't miss out! #legallyblonde #fyp #theatrical #melbourne
@theatricalinc
46.7K likes • 2M views

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Popular shows like Legally Blonde sell out fast! Book in advance via booktickets.com.au to guarantee your seat. TikTok

📍 Check Entry Points

The main entrance may be under construction. Enter via Barkly Street for easier access. Reddit

Guess who’s singing?! Legally Blonde: The Musical premieres on July 12th at National Theatre, St Kilda! Secure your tickets now at booktickets.com.au. Don't miss out! #legallyblonde #fyp #theatrical #melbourne
@theatricalinc
14.7K likes • 609K views
📍 Avenue Q- The National Theatre- St Kilda - @agtheatreproductions @aecreativecomms @andrewgshowtime Thanks for the invite - branded content - #AvenueQAU #AvenueQMelbourne #MelbourneTheatre #ComedyMusical #AGTheatreProductions #PuppetsForAdults #melbourne #melbournetodo #melbourneactivity #melbourneaustralia
bee.wac
63 likes • 7.5K views

🪑 Comfortable Seating

Seats are comfortable with good rise, ensuring visibility even with taller patrons in front. Reddit

🎶 Diverse Productions

From musicals like Tarzan to comedy shows, the National Theatre hosts a variety of performances. Instagram

Don't miss the extraordinary story of Billy Elliot! ⚡ Now playing at the National Theatre Melbourne until 25 May. Book now via the link in our bio.
clocmusicaltheatre
222 likes • 10.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Popular shows like Legally Blonde sell out fast! Book in advance via booktickets.com.au to guarantee your seat. TikTok

📍 Check Entry Points

The main entrance may be under construction. Enter via Barkly Street for easier access. Reddit

🪑 Comfortable Seating

Seats are comfortable with good rise, ensuring visibility even with taller patrons in front. Reddit

🎶 Diverse Productions

From musicals like Tarzan to comedy shows, the National Theatre hosts a variety of performances. Instagram

🍻 Pre/Post-Show Drinks

Consider visiting nearby Captain Baxter for food and drinks before or after your show. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.4
(953 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the National Theatre for its quality productions, comfortable seating, and beautiful historic architecture. Shows like 'Legally Blonde' and 'Tarzan' receive rave reviews for being engaging and well-executed. Some minor drawbacks include limited restroom facilities during peak times and occasional entrance construction.

"The National Theatre was just amazing and The Legally Blonde Play was just Mind blowing With such warming hearts definitely worth going there for Theatre Show Lovers Thank You.💚😍🥰💞🫂🖤🐶🩷🩷"

Kim Strange

"Great place to watch some quality theatre. We saw Tarzan the musical here. S
o good!!!"

J C

"Musical performance 'Legally Blonde' by the Theatricals. Brilliantly engaging on multiple levels!"

Louis Balis

What People Like

Quality theatre productions
Comfortable seating
Historic architecture

What People Dislike

Limited restrooms
Entrance construction

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The National Theatre is located in St Kilda. You can reach it by tram, with several routes stopping nearby. Parking can be challenging in the area, so public transport is often recommended. Reddit

Street parking is available but can be limited and metered. Some local car parks may also be an option, but it's advisable to check availability and rates beforehand. Reddit

Several tram routes service St Kilda, with stops within walking distance of the theatre. Check public transport apps for the most up-to-date route information. Reddit

Yes, you can be dropped off at the theatre. If the main entrance is under construction, you may need to use the Barkly Street entrance for drop-offs. Reddit

Absolutely! The National Theatre is well-served by Melbourne's tram network, making it easily accessible via public transport. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets are typically available through the theatre's official website, booktickets.com.au, or other authorized ticketing partners. Booking in advance is highly recommended for popular shows. TikTokInstagram

Opening hours vary depending on showtimes. It's best to check the specific performance schedule on the National Theatre's website for exact times. Instagram

Discounts may be available for seniors, concessions, and children, especially for family-friendly shows. Check the ticketing page for specific pricing details. Instagram

While possible for some performances, it's not guaranteed, especially for sold-out shows. Purchasing tickets in advance is the safest option. TikTok

The National Theatre Melbourne has a significant capacity, accommodating a large audience for its productions. Specific numbers can vary by seating configuration. Reddit

🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience

The National Theatre hosts a diverse range of performances, including musicals like 'Legally Blonde' and 'Tarzan', comedy shows, and other theatrical productions. TikTokInstagram+1

Yes, reviews indicate that the seats are comfortable with good rise, providing excellent stage visibility. Reddit

While the theatre is beautiful, some reviews mention that the restroom facilities can be limited, especially for a large number of patrons. Reddit

Yes, the theatre has an upstairs bar and relaxation zone with ample seating, perfect for pre-show or interval enjoyment. Reddit

The National Theatre is a beautiful old theatre with stunning architectural details, adding to the overall ambiance of the experience. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While there's an upstairs bar area for drinks and relaxation, dedicated dining options within the theatre itself are limited. It's more of a place to grab a drink. Reddit

St Kilda offers a vibrant dining scene. For a pre or post-show meal with great views, consider Captain Baxter, located nearby. Instagram

Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the theatre auditorium. It's best to consume them before entering or during the interval at designated areas. Reddit

Yes, the surrounding St Kilda area is filled with cafes and restaurants catering to various tastes and budgets, perfect for a pre-theatre meal. Instagram

Yes, the National Theatre features an upstairs bar area where you can purchase drinks before the show or during intermission. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography and videography are generally not allowed inside the auditorium during performances to avoid disturbing the audience and performers. Check with venue staff for specific policies. Reddit

The theatre's beautiful architecture offers some great photo opportunities, especially in the foyer and exterior (when not under construction). Capture the ambiance before or after the show. Reddit

Consider taking photos of the exterior during daylight hours, or capture the interior ambiance before the show begins. Be mindful of any ongoing construction. Reddit

No, flash photography and recording during performances are strictly prohibited to ensure the best experience for everyone. Reddit

The theatre boasts stunning architectural details. Look out for unique design elements in the foyer and seating areas. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The National Theatre often hosts family-friendly shows during school holidays and other times. Productions like 'Tarzan: The Musical' or specific children's theatre events are great options for a family outing. Instagram+1

When visiting with children, consider the show's suitability for their age group. While 'Legally Blonde' and 'Avenue Q' are popular, they might be more geared towards older audiences due to mature themes or humor. TikTokInstagram Always check the show's description and recommended age range. The comfortable seating and good stage visibility are also a plus for keeping younger audience members engaged.

🎭 Theatre Enthusiasts

For dedicated theatre lovers, the National Theatre Melbourne offers a consistent stream of quality productions. From critically acclaimed musicals to engaging plays, the venue consistently delivers memorable performances. Instagram+1

Keep an eye on their schedule for upcoming shows and consider subscribing to their newsletter or following their social media to stay updated on new announcements. The theatre's historic ambiance combined with modern productions provides a unique and enriching experience for any theatre aficionado. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into the National Theatre's History

The National Theatre Melbourne, located in the vibrant suburb of St Kilda, is a historic landmark with a rich legacy in the performing arts. Originally established in 1930, it has served as a crucial venue for various theatrical productions, dance performances, and musical events, fostering local talent and bringing world-class entertainment to Melbourne audiences. Its distinctive architecture adds to its charm, making it a beloved institution in the city's cultural landscape. Reddit

Over the years, the theatre has undergone renovations and adaptations to maintain its relevance and functionality. Despite facing challenges, it continues to be a significant player in Melbourne's theatre scene, hosting a diverse array of shows from musicals like 'Legally Blonde' and 'Tarzan' to comedy festivals and more intimate performances. The venue's commitment to showcasing both established and emerging artists ensures its continued importance. TikTokInstagram

Visitors often remark on the theatre's beautiful old-world charm and the quality of the productions staged within its walls. While some aspects, like restroom facilities, might be a point of minor critique, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the comfortable seating and excellent stage visibility. The National Theatre remains a cherished destination for theatre lovers seeking quality entertainment in a historic setting. Reddit

Navigating the National Theatre: Practical Tips

When planning your visit to the National Theatre in St Kilda, it's helpful to be aware of a few practicalities. The theatre is a beautiful, historic building, and as such, access might involve stairs. Some visitors have noted that the main entrance can sometimes be under construction, with an alternative entry point available via Barkly Street. This is important to know for accessibility or if you have mobility concerns. Reddit

Seating within the theatre is generally considered comfortable, with a good rise that ensures clear views of the stage, even if someone taller is seated in front of you. However, the number of restrooms, particularly for women, can be a point of congestion during busy periods, so factor in extra time if you need to use facilities. The theatre also boasts an upstairs bar and lounge area, offering a pleasant space to relax before a show or during intermission. Reddit

For those attending a performance, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular shows like 'Legally Blonde' or 'Avenue Q', as they tend to sell out quickly. Checking the theatre's official website or authorized ticketing partners like booktickets.com.au will ensure you secure your spot. TikTok+1

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