Originally Posted by
number_6
Isn't this ballroom normally open? I flew in for the Dr. Zhivago opening night and the after party was held there (rather ironic as the Regent theatre is playing Love Never Dies which is competition). Nice Hollywood 30s musical set kind of ballroom that looked to be in regular use, albeit in a hidden location. Melbourne does have the most amazing rooms tucked away in laneways or behind unpromising doors.
The Rooftop cinema is on Swanston? If so there is a great restaurant below it in the same building (Cookie, an eclectic fusion Thai restaurant with a Michelin-star-potential wine list).
My understanding is the ballroom isn't open to the public to have a look through at no cost, which it is rumoured to be for Melbourne Open House. Most people don't have the opportunity to attend a (no doubt expensive) ball or after party there.
There is also a ballroom in the Flinders St Station building above the station (I'm not exactly sure where), which I'd love to see (It was on the list a couple of years ago, but removed at the last minute). It's in desperate need of renovation though.
Forgot to mention Cookie - great Thai food! Rooftop Cinema is indeed above it in the same building.
For someone whose details note lives in Portland, you seem to know alot about Melbourne! Have you lived here or do you just visit often? I really liked Portland when I was there last July.