Forum Theatre

Photo provided by Tourism Victoria
Forum Theatre
Forum Theatre featuring theatre scenes and a city
Forum Theatre
Forum Theatre


For lovers of stylish entertainment, this historic Melbourne theatre is just the ticket!

Dating back to the 1920s, Melbourne’s lovely Forum Theatre has served its time as a cinema, a church and a cabaret. Today it is one of the city’s most popular and best-loved live venues with an active and varied programme of music, drama and comedy.

One of the theatre’s biggest claims to worldwide fame is as the host of the prestigious Melbourne International Comedy Festival, which brings star names from the world of stand-up to the city every April. Its proximity to the Australian Centre for the Moving Image also means it is sometimes used for film festival events, while performances by local and international bands are regular highlights.

The building itself is worth a visit in its own right. It was listed as a heritage site in 1978 for its Moorish revival façade and its ornate interior decoration in the Greco-Romanesque style. One of the most striking features is the ceiling, which is covered with twinkling stars to give the impression of an open-air amphitheatre.

The Forum has occupied a special place in the cultural life of Melbourne for almost a century and continues to attract enthusiastic and diverse audiences. Situated just a stone’s throw from lively Federation Square and the bohemian bars and restaurants of Flinders Lane, it’s also perfectly located for an animated post-performance discussion over a drink or a meal.

Call in at the box office on the corner of Flinders and Russell streets for a copy of the programme and to buy tickets for shows, some of which sell out very quickly. Tickets are also available online. You must be over 18 to see a show at the Forum, so be prepared to show proof of age if necessary.

Plan a trip to see Forum Theatre

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Top Forum Theatre Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Holiday Inn Express Melbourne Southbank by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Melbourne Southbank by IHG

4 out of 5
35-47 City Road, Southbank, VIC
Holiday Inn Express Melbourne Southbank by IHG
Grand Hyatt Melbourne

Grand Hyatt Melbourne

5 out of 5
123 Collins Street, Melbourne, VIC
Grand Hyatt Melbourne
The Langham, Melbourne

The Langham, Melbourne

5 out of 5
One Southgate Avenue, Southbank, VIC
The Langham, Melbourne
Rydges Melbourne

Rydges Melbourne

4.5 out of 5
186 Exhibition Street,, Melbourne, VIC
Rydges Melbourne
Holiday Inn Express Melbourne Little Collins by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Melbourne Little Collins by IHG

4 out of 5
589-599 Little Collins Street, Melbourne, VIC
Holiday Inn Express Melbourne Little Collins by IHG
The Victoria Hotel Melbourne

The Victoria Hotel Melbourne

3.5 out of 5
215 Little Collins Street, Melbourne, VIC
The Victoria Hotel Melbourne
Dorsett Melbourne

Dorsett Melbourne

4 out of 5
615 Little Lonsdale St, Melbourne, VIC
Dorsett Melbourne
Stamford Plaza Melbourne

Stamford Plaza Melbourne

5 out of 5
111 Little Collins Street, Melbourne, VIC
Stamford Plaza Melbourne
Great Southern Hotel Melbourne

Great Southern Hotel Melbourne

3.5 out of 5
44 Spencer Street, Melbourne, VIC
Great Southern Hotel Melbourne
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Forum Theatre

A visit to the Forum Theatre in Melbourne offers a rich blend of activities, including exploring the vibrant theatre scene with live performances and captivating shows. Nearby, you can indulge in shopping, enjoy local art, and partake in sightseeing tours that highlight the city's cultural gems. The Forum Theatre itself is a must-see for its stunning architecture and entertainment offerings, making it a perfect spot for both relaxation and excitement.

Shopping

For souvenirs near Forum Theatre, visit Lightning Ridge Opal Mines, a mere 161m away. Melbourne Central, only 966m away, offers a vibrant shopping experience. Queen Victoria Market, located 1.6km away, is perfect for unique gifts and local produce.

Recreation

Experience the energy of Marvel Stadium, only 1.6km from Forum Theatre, where you can catch a thrilling sports event. For a musical escape, head to Sidney Myer Music Bowl, just 805m away, and enjoy live performances in a vibrant outdoor setting.

For family fun, visit Melbourne Sports & Aquatic Centre, located 3.2km from Forum Theatre, featuring pools and recreational activities suitable for all ages. It's a perfect spot for relaxation and play.

Adventure

Experience the Tan Track, an outdoor gem located 1.6km from Forum Theatre, perfect for a refreshing stroll. Explore the Merri Creek Trail, a scenic hiking trail 3.2km away, offering stunning views. For an unforgettable adventure, take a scenic flight with Melbourne Seaplanes, situated 8.0km from the theatre.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife around Forum Theatre with a visit to the Regent Theatre for captivating performances, or enjoy a drink at Young & Jackson's, perfect for a romantic night out. Don’t miss the entertainment at Forum Melbourne, right next door, offering a blend of culture and family fun.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Forum Theatre

When visiting the iconic Forum Theatre in Melbourne, you'll find a variety of attractions nearby, including vibrant streets, urban parks, and historic colleges. This area offers a rich cultural experience, perfect for families and city explorers alike. For a memorable stay, consider accommodations close to Forum Theatre, allowing you to enjoy all that Melbourne has to offer, from its arts scene to local dining options.

  • Rod Laver Arena: Located 966m from Forum Theatre, Rod Laver Arena is a premier entertainment venue that hosts everything from concerts to tennis matches. The vibrant atmosphere is perfect for families and anyone looking to experience top-notch performances in a lively setting.
  • Collins Street: A mere 644m away, Collins Street is known for its chic city vibes, featuring high-end boutiques, historic architecture, and bustling cafés. Strolling down this iconic street offers a taste of Melbourne’s cosmopolitan flair.
  • Melbourne Cricket Ground: Situated 1.3km from Forum Theatre, the Melbourne Cricket Ground is not only a historic sports stadium but also a cultural landmark. Catch a game or take a tour to immerse yourself in Australia’s rich sporting heritage.

Best time to go to Forum Theatre

The best time to visit Forum Theatre is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. January is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain (dry).

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January68.7°F (20.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
February68.0°F (20.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March64.8°F (18.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April59.4°F (15.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May53.8°F (12.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
June49.8°F (9.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
July48.9°F (9.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageAverage
August49.8°F (9.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
September53.1°F (11.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
October56.8°F (13.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November61.2°F (16.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
December64.8°F (18.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Forum Theatre

To save money on your visit to Forum Theatre in Melbourne, consider travelling during the off-peak months of May to June and August for lower accommodation prices. Mondays are the cheapest days to book, while Saturdays are the priciest. Use Expedia to filter your search for budget-friendly, eco-certified hotels. Combine your hotel, flights, and activities into a package deal for extra savings. For getting around, utilise Melbourne's public transport system, or enjoy free activities such as exploring nearby parks and cultural sites to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Forum Theatre are May to June and August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to January, March and November, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Forum Theatre is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Forum Theatre is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will reveal a range of sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy savings by combining your hotel stay at the Forum Theatre with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.