Didn’t this location used to be a roller-skating rink? That’s right. Before you stands Festival Hall. It is a landmark with a rich history.
Originally known as the West Melbourne Stadium, Festival Hall opened in 1913. It quickly became a hub for sports and entertainment. Boxing and pro wrestling were its main attractions. Locals affectionately called it “the House of Stoush”. Festival Hall hosted some of Australia’s greatest boxing names. Lionel Rose and Anthony Mundine fought here. Lester Ellis and Barry Michael also made appearances.
But there’s more to Festival Hall than just boxing. It also hosted roller derby and ballroom dancing. Cultural and religious gatherings also took place here. Even John McEnroe played in the first indoor tennis exhibition here. The Painters and Dockers Union even used it as a meeting place. During the Great Depression, unemployed men gathered here hoping for dock work.
Tragedy struck in 1955. A fire destroyed the Stadium. But it was rebuilt. It reopened just in time for the 1956 Olympics. During the games, Festival Hall hosted boxing, basketball, and gymnastics events.
In the early 1960s, the Stadium was renamed Festival Hall. This name change reflected its growing popularity as a live entertainment venue. Dick Lean Jnr. played a key role in booking major music acts. The Beatles played at Festival Hall during their 1964 World Tour. Other major acts followed. Frank Sinatra and Johnny Cash graced its stage. The Red Hot Chili Peppers and Foo Fighters have also performed here.
Festival Hall’s versatility is impressive. It has hosted TV shows like The Price is Right. It has accommodated black-tie dinners and product launches. Even Swinburne University used it as an examination venue.
In 2018, there were plans to replace Festival Hall with apartment towers. But thankfully, it received heritage protection. This saved it from demolition.
In 2020, Hillsong Church purchased Festival Hall. Today, Festival Hall continues to host entertainment events. It also hosts Hillsong Church services every Sunday. Live Nation now manages the venue, ensuring its legacy as a performance space continues.
The Australian Rock Collective celebrated this new chapter. They performed The Beatles’ 1964 set. It was a fitting tribute to Festival Hall’s history.
Festival Hall can accommodate various events. It can seat up to 4,586 people or hold 5,445 standing. Curtains can create smaller, more intimate spaces. The main floor is ideal for dining. It can host 1,000 seated guests plus a dance floor.
For over 60 years, St John Ambulance Victoria provided first aid services here. Their presence ensured the safety of countless patrons. Their long-standing relationship with Festival Hall is a testament to its importance in Melbourne’s cultural life.
Festival Hall stands as a symbol of Melbourne’s vibrant history. It is a place where sport, music, and community come together. It is a venue that has adapted and thrived. It is a true icon of Melbourne.