News
New Beacon lights up Melbourne Recital Centre

31 August 2026

The Victorian government is backing music lovers by officially opening a striking new performance venue at Melbourne Recital Centre.
view of a piano in front of large windows overlooking a skyline
The Beacon interior, Melbourne Recital Centre. Image courtesy of Melbourne Recital Centre & Laura Manariti

The Peter and Ruth McMullin Beacon transforms a hidden space atop the Centre's Southbank building into a cabaret-style venue. The Beacon will host cabaret, contemporary music, jazz, musical theatre and First Nations performances.

Designed by the Melbourne Recital Centre’s original architects, the space will bring audiences of all ages closer to artists than ever before. The venue features a new artwork by First Nations artist and musician Dr Lou Bennett AM, bringing her music ‘Look Above’ to life.

The Beacon will open to the public on Thursday, 17 September with an inaugural program.

Find out more at melbournerecital.com.au/beacon