Arts Centre Melbourne’s much-loved Morning Melodies program returns in 2025 with an expanded line-up of stellar performances, celebrating 40 years of joyous entertainment on stage.
From February to December 2025, established stars and emerging talent will perform on the iconic Hamer Hall stage to mark this special milestone including David Hobson, Bernadette Robinson, Zoy Frangos and Darren Coggan, among others.
Spanning genres and generations, the 2025 program pays tribute to musical icons such as Elvis Presley, celebrates 1960’s rock ‘n’ roll teenage pioneers, female powerhouses Dolly Parton, Edith Piaf, Barbra Streisand as well as the emotive country and folk tunes of John Denver, Glen Campbell and Cat Stevens.
The magnificent sounds of the Air Force Band – a 17-piece swing and jazz ensemble, will spill out over Hamer Hall’s auditorium whilst much-loved food icon Maggie Beer will join Orchestra Victoria to muse over her love of music.
Dance lovers will be treated to an electrifying performance from The Tap Pack and The Australian Ballet School – an annual crowd favourite – returns with a program of traditional and contemporary dance performed by future ballet stars. The Victorian College of the Arts will also showcase their next generation talent as they sing and dance their way through the Golden Age of musical theatre.
Morning Melodies began in 1985 as film screenings in Arts Centre Melbourne’s Playhouse theatre. Performer Betty Pounder and producer Sandy Graham sought to make good use of an otherwise empty theatre on a Monday morning. Forty years on and the acclaimed program has a rich history with over 450 live performances taking place on the majestic Hamer Hall stage to more than half a million audience members.
For more information about the 2025 Morning Melodies program, visit: www.artscentremelbourne.com.au for details.
Image: Bernadette Robinson (supplied)
Morning Melodies 2025 Program:
Celebrate 40 Years of Morning Melodies
Monday 3 February
Join us in celebrating 40 years of Morning Melodies at Arts Centre Melbourne with David Hobson, one of Melbourne’s most cherished performers. In this special concert, David will take you on a musical journey through his illustrious career, showcasing a handpicked selection of his favourite songs. From his theatrical debut in The Pirates of Penzance at Hamer Hall in 1984 to timeless hits from operas and musicals, this performance promises a delightful array of surprises. David will enchant you with his signature style and unforgettable voice, offering a morning of melodies that will leave you with a smile.
Come Gather ‘Round the Campfire
Monday 3 March
Darren Coggan, one of Australia’s most versatile performers, is renowned for his emotive storytelling through music. From serenading by the ‘Bidgee’ River in Wagga Wagga to mesmerising audiences at the Sydney Opera House, Darren’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. On stage, he will showcase a selection of songs from his acclaimed albums, delivering heartfelt tributes to legends like Glen Campbell, James Taylor, John Denver and Cat Stevens. With his award-winning voice and captivating stage presence, Darren promises to enchant fans of folk, country and classic rock alike.
The Teens Who Stole Rock’n’Roll
Monday 7 April
Celebrate 1960s rock ‘n’ roll with Simply BRILL, starring Amelia Ryan, Michaela Burger and Michael Griffiths with a live five-piece band. Simply BRILL brings to life the golden era of New York’s Brill Building, where young songwriters like Carole King, Bill Haley, Cynthia Weil and Bobby Darin created timeless rock ‘n’ roll hits like Splish Splash and Will You Love Me Tomorrow? Offering a fun and heartfelt tribute to some of the greatest songs and songwriters of the 20th century, Simply BRILL blends history, humour and heart to the stories of classic singalong hits, from Rock Around The Clock to Oh Carol, You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’ , River Deep Mountain High, and more.
En Pointe: The Australian Ballet School
Tuesday 13 May
The Australian Ballet School’s annual performance continues to captivate Morning Melodies audiences with a breathtaking new program each year. Featuring talented full-time students of The Australian Ballet School, this mixed program of works celebrates the art of ballet from uplifting contemporary to the beautifully traditional. Be thrilled by a wonderful repertoire filled with the energy, dedication and refined skills of The Australian Ballet School’s young and pre-professional dancers.
Orchestra Victoria with Maggie Beer – Music and Me
Monday 2 June
As one of Australia’s most beloved culinary icons, Maggie Beer almost needs no introduction. Her cookbooks, television programs and produce have brought joy to millions of people across the country. To Maggie, music is every bit as important to her as food. It has been a constant part of her life since her early years and she takes every opportunity to bring music into her life: she is an opera lover, regular concertgoer and member of a choir. For this special Morning Melodies program, Maggie will be joined by Orchestra Victoria to present a concert of pieces handpicked for their significance in her life, interwoven with conversation in which Maggie will share the stories behind their selection.
Zoy Frangos – Sun Rise
Monday 14 July
Join Australian theatre sensation Zoy Frangos for an exhilarating journey as he channels the legendary King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, Elvis Presley. This unforgettable musical tribute not only honours Elvis but also pays homage to Sun Records and the pioneering African American artists who helped shape the revolutionary sound of rock’n’roll. With electrifying live renditions of Elvis’ greatest hits, Zoy and his exceptional band will transport you to the golden era of rock’n’roll, capturing the energy, passion, and timeless allure of Elvis’s music.
Victorian College of the Arts Music Theatre Showcase – The Golden Age of Musical Theatre
Monday 18 August
Join the graduating students from the Victorian College of the Arts (VCA)– Australia’s brightest emerging stars – as they celebrate the beloved music of The Golden Age of Musical Theatre. This eagerly awaited performance promises a captivating mix of intimate solos, spirited duets and dynamic ensembles, all performed with exceptional skill. Watch as these talented students dazzle with their acting, singing and dancing prowess, demonstrating why musical theatre remains a perennial favourite, highlighting the VCA’s role as a premier training ground for the next generation of theatrical talent.
Bernadette Robinson: They Sang at Carnegie Hall – Songs from the Iconic New York Stage
Monday 8 September
For over a century, Carnegie Hall has stood as the iconic New York stage where some of the world’s greatest artists have performed. From Billie Holiday to Maria Callas, and the unforgettable night Judy Garland recorded her best-selling album, this legendary venue has created melodic history. In this special concert, acclaimed singer Bernadette Robinson creates unforgettable moments while celebrating timeless hits from the New York City stage. Featuring songs from musical legends including Dolly Parton, Edith Piaf, Barbra Streisand, Karen Carpenter, Eartha Kitt and Patsy Cline, prepare to be transported from the beauty of Hamer Hall to the grandeur of Carnegie Hall.
Air Force Band: Rhythm in Blue
Monday 20 October
Experience the electrifying sounds of the Air Force Big Band, the Royal Australian Air Force’s premier 17-piece Swing and Jazz ensemble. Dedicated to celebrating and promoting the Air Force and its core values, the band delivers unforgettable performances at major community festivals, public events, schools and formal Defence Force functions. Rooted in the rich military heritage of the 1940s Big Band Swing era, this dynamic ensemble echoes the golden age of jazz that once lifted the spirits of WWII troops. Their diverse repertoire features classic swing, innovative concert jazz and original compositions crafted by the band members themselves. Join us for a captivating musical journey that honours tradition while showcasing contemporary talent.
The Tap Pack – Cool Classics with a Fresh Twist
Monday 10 November
After sell-out performances on London’s West End and at the Sydney Opera House, Australia’s hottest tap dance sensation, The Tap Pack, is bringing their electrifying show to Melbourne. Inspired by the iconic Rat Pack, The Tap Pack offers a modern twist by blending classic crooners such as Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr. with contemporary hits from artists like Ed Sheeran, Michael Bublé and Beyoncé. Get ready for an unforgettable hour featuring timeless favourites like The Lady Is a Tramp, Come Fly with Me and One for My Baby, all delivered with slick humour, high-energy entertainment and world-class tap dancing. It’s impossible not to tap along to this fresh and exciting take on the classics.
Christmas Melodies – Unwrap the Magic of Music
Monday 8 December
Experience the festive season like never before with Morning Melodies’ spectacular Christmas concert! Delight in a joyous celebration featuring all your favourite carols, hymns and holiday songs. Invite your family and friends to revel in the enchanting sounds of a big band, choir and a host of special guests, all coming together to create the perfect holiday atmosphere. Past Christmas Melodies concerts have showcased esteemed artists such as Gorgi Coghlan, Clare Lyon, Kane Alexander and Michael Cormick. Stay tuned for the announcement of our 2025 line-up this spring – it’s set to be an unforgettable celebration you won’t want to miss.