The Golden Square car park, nestled between Lonsdale Street and Celestial Avenue in Melbourne’s vibrant Chinatown, is set to undergo a remarkable transformation into a bustling cultural hub. Scheduled to open on October 29, 2025, the precinct will debut with the highly anticipated Blanc de Blanc Encore, a cabaret and circus extravaganza that promises to captivate audiences with its champagne-infused allure. Tickets for the opening night start at $69, offering a taste of the spectacle that will run for three months in the spiegeltent on the ground floor.
The announcement comes as Melbourne continues to expand its cultural offerings, with Spiegel Haus Melbourne poised to become a cornerstone of the city’s entertainment landscape. Operating across two levels, the venue boasts a total capacity of 1,000 patrons and will host a diverse array of performances over its nine-month season. The precinct features a 380-seat Belgian spiegeltent, a 400-seat black box theatre, and an open-air activation space for outdoor performances and art installations.
Spiegel Haus Melbourne: A New Cultural Destination
Spiegel Haus Melbourne is more than just a venue; it is a multifaceted entertainment precinct designed to cater to a wide range of artistic tastes. The rooftop bar, offering panoramic views of the city skyline, serves craft beers from Bodriggy Brewing Co and culinary delights from CDMX Taquería. This makes it an ideal summer spot for those seeking a blend of drinks, music, and social interaction.
The precinct’s strategic location and diverse offerings are expected to draw both locals and tourists, establishing it as a key player in Melbourne’s cultural scene. The City of Melbourne, in partnership with various arts organizations, aims to position the precinct as a festival hub and hospitality showcase throughout the summer months.
Blanc de Blanc Encore: A Daring Spectacle
Blanc de Blanc Encore is a production that blends vintage French glamour with high-octane circus and cabaret decadence. Created by the renowned Strut & Fret, the show has already captivated over 200,000 audiences across Australia and is making its Melbourne debut at this new venue. The 18+ show promises an evening of risqué comedy, spectacular aerials, and jaw-dropping surprises, all delivered with a touch of Gatsby-esque flair.
“Audiences can expect an intoxicating atmosphere with champagne cocktails, titillating performances, and edge-of-your-seat entertainment,” said a spokesperson for Strut & Fret.
The production’s international acclaim since its inception in 2016 underscores its appeal, and its presence in Melbourne is anticipated to enhance the city’s reputation as a cultural hotspot.
Implications for Melbourne’s Cultural Scene
The establishment of Spiegel Haus Melbourne represents a significant investment in the city’s cultural infrastructure. By creating a concentrated zone for circus, theatre, comedy, and live music, the precinct is set to become a pivotal venue for both established and emerging artists. The inclusion of a rooftop bar further enhances its appeal, offering a seamless integration of performance and social spaces.
According to cultural analysts, the precinct’s opening aligns with broader trends in urban development, where cities are increasingly investing in multi-use cultural spaces to attract both local and international visitors. This development follows Melbourne’s ongoing efforts to revitalize its arts and entertainment sectors post-pandemic, providing a much-needed boost to local businesses and artists alike.
Looking Ahead: Future Programming and Impact
While the initial focus is on the opening of Blanc de Blanc Encore, additional programming for Spiegel Haus Melbourne will be revealed closer to the October opening. The venue’s nine-month season is expected to feature a diverse lineup of performances, further solidifying its status as a cultural destination.
As construction and fit-out commence in the coming weeks, anticipation builds for what promises to be a transformative addition to Melbourne’s entertainment offerings. The precinct is scheduled to operate through winter 2026, after which the site will return to its original use, leaving a lasting impact on the city’s cultural landscape.
Melbourne residents and visitors alike are encouraged to stay informed about the latest developments and programming announcements, as Spiegel Haus Melbourne prepares to open its doors and usher in a new era of entertainment in the heart of the city.
