Entertainment · Chinatown
Princess Theatre
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The Princess Theatre is one of Melbourne's most beloved and architecturally stunning performance venues, located on Spring Street in the city's East End theatre district. Built in 1854, it is the oldest continuously operating theatre in Australia. The grand facade features a striking Second Empire style with a mansard roof and a magnificent foyer adorned with gold leaf, crystal chandeliers, and a sweeping staircase. Inside, the auditorium is equally impressive, with plush red velvet seats, intricate plasterwork, and a large proscenium arch. The theatre is renowned for its excellent acoustics and intimate atmosphere, making it a favorite for major musicals, opera, and ballet. Recent productions have included 'Harry Potter and the Cursed Child' and 'Wicked.' The theatre also has a reputation for being haunted by the 'Lady in Grey,' a ghost said to be the spirit of a dancer who died in 1888. A visit to the Princess Theatre is as much about the building itself as the performances.
Don't miss
- Admire the ornate Second Empire architecture and the grand foyer with its gold leaf and chandeliers.
- Watch a world-class musical or play in the beautifully preserved auditorium.
- Take a guided tour to learn about the theatre's history and ghost stories.
- Look for the 'Lady in Grey', the theatre's resident ghost.
- Visit the nearby bars and restaurants in the East End before or after the show.
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Princess Theatre
Entry is only possible with a guide, so a tour isn't optional here — pick the style that fits how you like to travel.
Cheapest way inRoyal Botanic Gardens Melbourne: The Explorer Bus4.9★ · 262 travelers~1 hourFree cancellationFrom$13 per personSee dates →
Most bookedUltimate Melbourne Walking Tour: History, Laneways & Culture4.9★ · 1,558 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$91 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleMelbourne Private Bites and Sights with Skydeck Entrance5★ · 49 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$100 per personSee dates →Good for
How travelers rate it
Know before you go
- Book tickets in advance for popular shows, they sell out quickly.
- If you're interested in the ghost, ask staff about the 'Lady in Grey' story.
- The theatre has a bar serving drinks and snacks. You can pre-order interval drinks.
- Photography is not allowed during performances, but you can take photos in the foyer before the show and during intermission.
A bit of history
The Princess Theatre opened in 1854 as the Astley's Amphitheatre, later renamed. It was rebuilt after a fire in 1888 and renovated in the 1920s. The ghost of a dancer named Federici (or Frederick Baker) is said to haunt the theatre after he died on stage during a performance of 'Faust' in 1888.
Common questions
Is the Princess Theatre haunted?
Yes, it is famously haunted by the 'Lady in Grey,' believed to be the ghost of a dancer who died in 1888. Many staff and visitors have reported sightings.
Can I visit the theatre without seeing a show?
Yes, guided tours are available on select days. Check the official website for tour schedules and prices.
What is the dress code?
There is no strict dress code, but smart casual is common for evening performances. Some people dress up for special occasions.
How do I get to the Princess Theatre?
It's a short walk from Parliament Station (City Loop) and Flinders Street Station. Trams 86 and 96 stop nearby on Bourke Street.
Are there dining options nearby?
Yes, the theatre is in Melbourne's East End, which has many restaurants and bars. The theatre itself has a bar for pre-show drinks.
Is the theatre accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, there is wheelchair access via a ramp at the side entrance, and accessible seating is available in the stalls.
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