A brand-new premier performing arts venue The Round, has opened in Melbourne’s East. The new venue officially opened on October 13 and will continue to boast an inspiring program of professional theatre and music, as well as state-of-the-art function and rehearsal spaces, in a brand-new facility.  

Building upon the legacy of the former Whitehorse Centre, The Round will usher the area into a new era and become the contemporary hub of art and culture for the local community and beyond.

A place to celebrate, entertain, create and connect, The Round houses a 600+ seat proscenium theatre, 200 seat studio theatre, two multipurpose rehearsal studios and versatile function spaces perfect for business, community or private use.

“Whitehorse City Council is incredibly excited to present The Round and unveil the new, world-class venue which we hope will become the cultural heart of Melbourne’s East. The Round has been designed to broaden the opportunities for our community to connect with the arts, as well as with one another, and be enjoyed for generations to come,” said Cr Mark Lane, Mayor, Whitehorse City Council.  

Hosting a diverse lineup of entertainment from nationally recognised artists to local performing arts groups, The Round’s brand-new theatre is fitted with world-class sound and lighting technology and extensive back-of-house facilities including dressing room space, fully accessible bathrooms, laundry facilities, green room, production office space, as well as a hearing augmentation system.

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The studio theatre also offers a highly versatile performance space with its retractable seating bank and ability to be blacked out making it easily reconfigurable for movie screenings, comedy shows, music acts, dance rehearsals or small-scale plays.

Set in expansive parklands which offer lush suburban scenery, The Round is home to a purpose-built soundshell for festivals and outdoor events, creating an entirely new stage for gatherings of all shapes and sizes heading into the warmer months.  

Patrons can also pull up a stool at The Round Bar and tuck into a menu of seasonally curated food and drinks, an ideal setting for a pre-show snack or after show nightcap.

Honoring the history of the former Whitehorse Centre, The Round incorporates legacy pieces including a Bicentenary Leadlight Mural from 1988 and two-time capsules from 1985 and 2001.

The Round’s season for the remainder of the year will include everything from musicals and cabarets, live comedy and contemporary music.

A stones-throw away from Nunawading Railway Station, the venue is easily accessible via public transport whilst also hosting free guest parking for those who opt to drive.

The Round is located at 379-399 Whitehorse Road, Nunawading VIC 3131

For more information on The Round and to view upcoming shows, please visit: www.theround.com.au

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