St Kilda’s Palais Theatre reopens after $20m upgrade

THE landmark Palais Theatre has reopened after a fresh lick of paint, new lights system and behind-the-scenes renovations as part of a $20 million makeover.

THE landmark Palais Theatre has reopened after a fresh lick of paint, new lights system and behind-the-scenes renovations as part of a $20 million makeover.

The heritage-listed venue has been closed for six months for the first stage of improvements.

The venue will host the 34th annual St Kilda Film Festival which opens on Thursday night.

Creative Services Minister Martin Foley described the 1927 building as the cultural heart of St Kilda.

The state government tipped in $13.4 million for the renovations while the City of Port Phillip paid $7.5 million.

Leaseholder Live Nation will complete the second stage of renovations by November, in time for the Palais’ 90th birthday celebrations. Those works, costing $6 million, will include a facelift for the foyer.

The heritage-listed venue has been closed for six months for the first stage of upgrades. Picture: Supplied

Live Nation Australia chairman Michael Coppel said the Palais was universally cherished by audiences and performers.

Mr Coppel recalled attending his first concert at the theatre as a 14-year-old in 1965 when he saw “an up-and-coming-beat combo called the Rolling Stones” perform as support for Roy Orbison.

“I came on my own. I had a single ticket but I don’t remember much. It’s all a bit of a blur,’’ he said.

Mr Coppel said he was hoping to announce some major acts for the revived theatre soon but conceded booking had been tricky while it was closed.

Mr Foley, who grew up and lives in Elwood, recalled taking his girlfriend, now his wife, on their first date to the ballet.

Port Phillip mayor Bernadene Voss thanked community campaigners including musician Tex Perkins for their support.

“The Palais has been saved and future-proofed,’’ Cr Voss said.

Other work on the 2896-seat venue included upgrades to the balcony, ceiling domes, electrics, fire protection and the installation of a lift.

The facade has been painted in the original 1927 colour.

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