Venue Finder
Image: YUMMY Joy Machine by Nikki Russian
In need of a venue?
Midsumma Festival is open-access, which means that anyone can register to be part of the program.
You will need a confirmed venue to register your event for the festival. Venue Registrations for 2025 are now open and will close on 31 July 2024.
The venues below are currently seeking expressions of interest for the 2025 festival. Any venues wishing to be included in this list are invited to do so by emailing [email protected] after registering on Eventotron.
Get in touch with venues directly to discuss your event's needs and see if you're a good fit. Once you have secured a venue, you will need to add the venue to your event in Eventotron and your venue will need to accept.
Selecting a Venue in Eventotron for your Event
- Log in to Eventotron
- Go to Step 10: Add a Venue on your event registration.
- Once you find a venue that you like, select "More Info" and then "Apply to...". You'll then be prompted to provide a brief introductory note.
- We strongly advise that you then contact the venue directly to discuss your event in more detail.
- Once the venue accepts your application, it will appear in the next step. You will then be able to input the dates, times, duration, capacity and pricing details of your event.
You can also request venue advice from the Midsumma team by emailing [email protected].
Venues Seeking Expressions of Interest for 2025
CBD
A bar and arts space in the heart of Melbourne's CBD.
SPACE CAPACITY
35-40 pax
ACCESSIBILITY
Not wheelchair accessible - the venue has 4 steps to enter it and a set of stairs to get down to the event space.
CONTACT
For enquiries contact Matthew Molony 0481 134 686 or [email protected]
NORTH
Beans, located at 325 Smith St Fitzroy, is Melbourne’s first lesbian, trans, non-binary and neurodivergent friendly bar! With comfy indoor seating and an adorable courtyard!
SPACE CAPACITY
110 pax
ACCESSIBILITY
There is one step at the entrance, however, there is a ramp available to be placed down for wheelchair and step-free entry.
CONTACT
Email [email protected] to enquire.
Club Voltaire is an intimate theatre space with raised stage for an eclectic range of live performances. Includes small foyer with bar facilities. Projector, screen, sound equipment, mic stands + microphones available. Access via stairs from ground floor. Club Voltaire has entertained Melbourne's public for many years, playing host to theatrical performances, comedy, cabaret and an array of live music and short films.
SPACE CAPACITY
60 pax
ACCESSIBILITY
There are cobblestones and uneven surfaces on the approach to the venue, 23 steps leading up to the venue, and steps inside the public areas of the venue.
CONTACT
Email [email protected] to enquire.
Howler’s performance space is unique - it has been purpose-built for live performance and was designed in consultation with Arup sound engineers with acoustics and sound quality as a priority. We run a fully equipped L’acoustics array, with high ceilings and a generous amount of moving spots, beams, strobes and washes allowing for a full theatrical experience.
The performance space puts Howler in a position to host the best of local and international acts, with a strong focus on premium performance presentation.
Howler prides itself on its intimate and beautiful performance space with custom designed sound and lighting that raises the bar in venue capabilities.
SPACE CAPACITY
420 pax
ACCESSIBILITY
Venue is wheelchair accessible and has step-free access for attendees.
CONTACT
Email [email protected] to enquire.
Music Market is a versatile and adaptable event and performance venue, which can be activated at full capacity or divided into smaller spaces to fit your business & creative needs. Housed within the Collingwood Yards precinct, this fully refurbished space is equipped with the latest technology and infrastructure to support Victoria’s creative industries.
Our north-facing venue is bathed in natural light with blackout capabilities throughout. Music Market features climate control in every space, adjustable stage and venue lighting, 3 phase power and a variety of furniture options.
In addition to the main event spaces Music Market features a foyer and green room, both of which can be used as break-out spaces.
SPACE CAPACITY
150 seated
200 standing
ACCESSIBILITY
Our event spaces are located on the upper level of Music Market and are accessible from Johnston Street either by ramp or lift. The stage and green room area are accessible via a ramp. There are also accessible and ambulant all gender bathrooms on this level.
CONTACT
Email [email protected] to enquire.
The Curtin's performance space is the ideal location to host seated performances (130 cap), private showcases, larger local bands and performances for standing audiences of up to 300, intimate shows for international touring artists and aftershow parties. The venue is located on the fringe of the CBD, in busy Lygon St next to RMIT and Trades Hall precinct. We have a free entry public bar which offers DJs Thurs - Saturdays. Our locally famous restaurant Sonny's Fried Chicken & Burgers is delish!
Performers to grace our stage include The Libertines (for real), Allah-Las (LA), Big Thief to local legends Good Morning, Civic & Amyl & the Sniffers. The Curtin has also hosted a successful sellout run of shows for Danna Mitchell's play Revenge Plot and FriendlyJordies - Malcolm Turnbull - A Life and the most recent tour for America's Funnyman - Neil Hamburger. As well as numerous performances with the amazing Karen From Finance and Betty Grumble.
SPACE CAPACITY
130 seated
280 standing
ACCESSIBILITY
Performance space is located upstairs. Not wheelchair accessible. No step-free access.
CONTACT
Email [email protected] to enquire.
CRYSTAL HALL
Located on the ground floor of the historic Russian House, the Crystal Hall is a versatile venue opportunity for flexible rental. Space offers a unique ambience for birthday parties, training & conferences, productive meetings and company events.
SPACE CAPACITY
150 pax
ACCESSIBILITY
Not wheelchair accessible. No step-free access.
CONTACT
Email Nikita at [email protected] to enquire.
EMERALD HALL
Perched on the top floor of the Russian House, Emerald Hall is the brightest space of the venue. While it is most suited for photoshoots, classes, workshops and music events, we are always willing to adapt and accommodate any event type.
The space is equipped with a kitchenette and features polished timber floors, high ceilings, large windows and intricate chandeliers which create an enchanting play of natural sunlight and a captivating atmosphere. 12 trestle tables and 80 chairs available upon request. Full audio, light and stage set up available for hire at an extra charge. Portable whiteboard, TV, and a projector are complimentary and ideal for corporate and business events.
Discover the exquisite elegance of Emerald Hall at The Russian House. Enquire to find out more about making your dream event come true with Melbourne's premier venue.
SPACE CAPACITY
100 pax
ACCESSIBILITY
Not wheelchair accessible. No step-free access.
CONTACT
Email [email protected] to enquire.
LGBTQIA+ Melbourne (Naarm) Queer Boutique Bar / Space in the heart of Smith Street (Be Here, Be Queer).
SPACE CAPACITY
100 pax
ACCESSIBILITY
Wheelchair and step-free access via main entrance.
CONTACT
Email [email protected] to enquire.
EAST
A living place for curiosity and collaboration, meeting and meaning. The heart of a creative community. All are welcome.
Just four kilometres from Melbourne’s CBD and spread over 16 acres, Abbotsford Convent is Australia’s largest multi-arts precinct—a place of art, culture and learning.
Renowned for its rich history, its striking built and natural landscapes, and the remarkable community-led campaign to preserve it from commercial development, the site was enshrined on Australia’s National Heritage List in 2017. Today, this nationally and internationally unique precinct is managed by the Abbotsford Convent Foundation, a not-for-profit, social enterprise.
The Convent is home to a vibrant creative community, wellbeing practitioners, a gallery, cafes, a radio station, two schools, and an abundance of green open space.
We are passionate about working collaboratively with artists and partnering with arts and cultural organisations to present contemporary, thought-provoking and enriching experiences for all to enjoy. And every year we curate and also welcome over 2,000 art projects, rehearsals, workshops, exhibitions, private and corporate events, markets and festivals.
At the Convent we celebrate creativity, inclusivity, wellbeing and community enrichment—both onsite and online. We look forward to welcoming you to our special place!
SPACE CAPACITY
Several event spaces available with various capacities.
ACCESSIBILITY
Buildings
Convent building: One set of the Convent’s doors operates with automatic sensors to provide wheelchair access.
The Store: For wheelchair access, press the access-signed buzzer on the eastern door to trigger front of house attendants to open the accessible side door to the space.
Rosina building: With the exception of the stage and backstage area in the Auditorium, all function and venue hire spaces within Rosina building are wheelchair accessible.
Sacred Heart building: All ground-floor areas are wheelchair accessible, including the Industrial School, the Magdalen Laundry, the Oratory, and the Packing Room.
Gardens & Grounds
Access through the gardens and grounds is via mostly bituminised pathways; some are dirt/gravel. Some surfaces within the Convent are difficult to navigate and assistance may be required to ensure wheelchair accessibility
Eateries
Staff at all establishments are happy to provide assistance.
More details on Accessibility can be found here on the Abbotsford Convent website.
CONTACT
Email [email protected] to enquire.
Large open plan cafe, accessible for people of all abilities. Suitable for panel events, large meetings or themed brunches, full venue booking is possible.
SPACE CAPACITY
80 pax
ACCESSIBILITY
Wheelchair and step-free access via main entrance. Accessible toilet also available.
CONTACT
Email [email protected] to enquire.
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- Centrally located (10 mins from CBD).
- Very close to amenities (inc 2 train stations Burnley & Richmond)
- Cinema screen with 7.2 surround sound - 4 projectors.
- Showcasing a diverse range of local and international artists.
- Curated art exhibitions.
- Wine and food appreciation events.
- Full accessibility including Loop hearing service.
- Non-smoking and non-vaping venue
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- 140-150 patrons Main and Back rooms, 25 patrons Courtyard
- Room may be configured accordingly to accommodate standing and/or seated patrons
- 4 unisex toilets including 1 fully accessible toilet.
SPACE CAPACITY
140 pax
ACCESSIBILITY
Wheelchair and step-free access via main entrance. Hearing loop available.
CONTACT
Email [email protected] to enquire.
SOUTH
Cracked Actors Theatre (CAT) is located on the Albert Park Lake. The CAT is an independent theatrical production company, founded in 2007, bound to providing quality and affordable entertainment for everybody. We strive to achieve artistic excellence and originality in all of our projects. Cracked Actors Theatre are dedicated to captivating their audience and inspiring others to celebrate theatre as part of their lives. Cracked Actors Artistic programs facilitate independent theatre production.
SPACE CAPACITY
120 pax
ACCESSIBILITY
Not wheelchair accessible. No step-free access.
CONTACT
Email [email protected] to enquire.
The MC Showroom is known as an off-broadway style venue located in the heart of Prahran, Victoria. Committed to delivering a premium, professional, yet affordable theatre experience for artists and the general public alike, it contains two performance spaces, as well as an in-house music production suite. A creative hub that offers credibility and versatility.
ACCESSIBILITY
We are situated on the second level (Level 1) of 50 Clifton St. We can be accessed by stairs only.
There are 25 steps (including 2 landings) and handrails on both sides from street to foyer. Despite our efforts, due to the age and configuration of the building, unfortunately wheelchair accessibility cannot be accommodated.
CONTACT
Email [email protected] to enquire.
THE CLUBROOM
The Clubroom is a 30 - 35 seat theatrette, with a luxurious salon-lounge style atmosphere. Equipped with a basic sound and lighting system, it is a great space for stand-up comedy, intimate cabaret performances, open mic, spoken word, close-up magic, burlesque, piano bar and the testing of new material.
SPACE CAPACITY
30-35 pax
THE SHOWROOM
The Showroom is a black-box theatre with a generous sized stage, it accommodates a comfortable capacity of 80 - 100. Its classy theatrical atmosphere and great acoustics make it a perfect venue for musicals, drama, cabaret, circus, music & dance. The well-appointed backstage area allows co-existence of two to three production teams concurrently, with assignments of their own dressing room(s) and exclusive zones.
SPACE CAPACITY
80-100 pax
The Victorian Pride Centre will celebrate Victoria’s diverse LGBTIQ+ community, paving new directions for its future and honouring its brave, and at times, difficult past. It will provide an uplifting expression of welcome, engagement and belonging.
ACCESSIBILITY
The Victorian Pride Centre welcomes visitors with all kinds of access needs. We are fully DDA compliant, in addition, the following structural design and operational elements have been undertaken
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- Wheelchair accessible entrance with no ramps
- Accessible toilets on all floors
- Accessible toilet with a personal automated hoist on the ground floor
- All toilet facilities are all-gender
- All floors accessible by elevators, positioned by the stairs with slow closing doors
- 2 accessible carparks in basement
- Lighting design to meet low sensory needs (including dimmable lights in all meeting rooms)
- Assistance animals are welcome
- Floor plan flow ensures movement around all areas of the building
- Wayfinding/directional signage all DDA compliant
- Public reflection room for quiet space
- Platform designed into the main stairs to accommodate wheelchair users
- Hearing loop in theatrette/multipurpose space
- All videos captioned or Auslan interpreted where possible
CONTACT
For further information and to express your interest, please see Victorian Pride Centre's Midsumma 2025 EOI Form. Applications close Friday 16 August 2024. You can also email [email protected].
THE FORUM
SPACE CAPACITY
205 pax
THEATRETTE
SPACE CAPACITY
100 pax
ROOFTOP
SPACE CAPACITY
250 pax
WEST
The Bluestone Church Arts Space is a flexible performance space at 8A Hyde Street, Footscray. The former Wesleyan Church offers an open plan, flat wooden floor space and exceptionally high ceilings, with a performance area of approximately 120m². For Midsumma Festival, the venue is programmed through an Expression of Interest process (with a focus on supporting artists from Melbourne's West), and is suitable for small-scale performances including comedy, cabaret, live music, dance, theatre or similar.
Successful artists will receive in-kind access to the venue, technician, front of house and marketing support through Council’s channels. Additionally, to further support Maribyrnong's LGBTQIA+ community, a $1,000 stipend will go towards production costs, plus all box office takings.
The Visual Guide for this venue can be found here.
SPACE CAPACITY
80 seated
100 standing
ACCESSIBILITY
Wheelchair accessible for performers and audiences via Lawson Place entrance. Once inside, all facilities are level.
CONTACT
To apply, visit the Maribyrnong City Council website. Applications close Friday 9 August 2024, 5pm.
From a quick drink with friends or hosting a private event, our bar is a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the company of friends or colleagues over a delicious drink or two accompanied by our shared style food menu.
SPACE CAPACITY
50 pax
ACCESSIBILITY
Wheelchair and step-free entry via main entrance.
CONTACT
Email [email protected] to enquire.
Kindred Studios is a purpose built creative space in Yarraville, Melbourne. Our theatre and bar is perfect for stand up, cabaret, theatre, dance and live music and performance. Want an alternative space? Try our multi-level auditorium, dance studio, rehearsal rooms, or film studio for creative shows.
SPACE CAPACITY
237 pax
ACCESSIBILITY
Wheelchair and step-free entry via main entrance. Ramp to stage available if required.
CONTACT
Email [email protected] to enquire.
