Melbourne will soon be blessed with an incredible new music venue and multi-function precinct with a team of industry mainstays preparing a mammoth renovation on the iconic Northcote Theatre.

Operator, Andrew Mansfied and his partners will transform the Edwardian Baroque-era theatre into a multi-function precinct featuring a 1500 cap live music and performance in the auditorium, plus a mezzanine cocktail bar, a rooftop bar, and on the ground floor, an Italian style trattoria; Dough Romeos and a boutique wine bar; Isabellas.

“And it’s not just concerts” Mansfield adds, “the theatre is versatile, it’s a welcome freedom to be able to explore all the different ways the space can be used to facilitate people connecting with the arts.”

Established at 216 High Street (corner High Street and Bastings Street) in June 1912, the Northcote Theatre was designed by local architect, Edward Twentyman, jnr. and remains perhaps the earliest surviving picture theatre designed in Victoria.

That this iconic space will soon be re-opened to the Inner North’s passionate arts community is not lost on venue booker, Ben Thompson. “The theatre is a grand and ornate space, purpose built to host entertainment and right in the heart of Northcote,” he says.

“The new lease holders have uncovered a sweeping tiered mezzanine and there are direct stage sightlines from anywhere in the theatre, it’s just perfect for live performance,” says Thompson.

Construction is set to commence on the site at the crest of Ruckers Hill in early 2022, and conclude mid-year with a host of local, national and international artists already secured to perform. For more information, visit: www.northcotetheatre.com for details.

Image: Northcote Theatre Interior (supplied)