St Kilda’s Palais Theatre is set to reopen to the public on Thursday for the St Kilda Film Festival Opening Night, brighter and more vibrant than ever. Victorian Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley said that the iconic façade of the 89-year-old venue has been repaired, repainted and returned to its original 1927 colour and a new state-of-the-art light system has been installed, making the Palais a key focal point of the St Kilda skyline once again. The historic Palais Theatre sign has also been reinstalled following a complete restoration and will be linked into the new light show.
“We said we would save the Palais to ensure it remains an important part of St Kilda’s culture and Victoria’s live music scene for many years to come – that’s exactly what we’ve done.” Minister Foley commented.
“This project has given the Palais a new lease of life and a bright future in Australia’s live music capital – Melbourne.” Minister for Major Projects Jacinta Allan commented.

Minister Allan went on to explain that with $13.4 million from the Andrews Labor Government and $7.5 million from the City of Port Phillip, the project has also resolved the building’s critical maintenance and infrastructure issues including upgrades to the theatre’s electrical system, fire protection and hydraulic systems. Good project management has enabled an extra $3.5 million worth of additions to the project including an upgraded plumbing system and additional landscaping, as well as the new light show. Bringing the total spend on the project to $26.9 million from project partners. New leaseholder Live Nation began a $6 million internal works program in March to ensure the interior of the building matches the grandeur of the façade.
“Everyone from Mick Jagger to Kylie Minogue has strutted their stuff on the Palais stage, and generations of Victorians have enjoyed countless nights of entertainment at the venue. Long may that continue.” Minister Foley said.