Melbourne: Must-See Live Shows!
From candlelit symphonies to flawless ballet - don't miss Melbourne's best live entertainment
As the curtains rise on Melbourne's vibrant summer, the city comes alive with an irresistible blend of candlelit concerts and dazzling illuminated ballet. From reimagined classical masterpieces to nostalgic 90s tributes and luminous fairytale productions, these upcoming events promise to transform familiar stories and beloved melodies into unforgettable sensory experiences. Below we have curated a list of some of the most in-demand shows in Melbourne this summer. Check them out below and don't miss out!
Candlelight: Christmas Movie Soundtracks
20 Dec 2025, The Athenaeum Theatre
Step into a world where Christmas magic shimmers in every note as a live chamber ensemble reimagines iconic holiday film scores. Amid the soft flicker of candlelight, audiences are invited to relive the nostalgia, joy, and wonder of classic cinematic momentseach melody unfolding with renewed intimacy and seasonal sparkle.
Ballet of Lights: Sleeping Beauty
14 Dec - 13 Jan 2026, Capitol Theatre
This radiant retelling of *Sleeping Beauty* bathes the beloved fairytale in a luminous glow, blending classical ballet with cutting-edge light artistry. Each scene is transformed into a shimmering dreamscape where the dancers appear to glide through beams of colour, creating a spellbinding encounter with the timeless story.
Candlelight: Vivaldi's Four Seasons & More
19 Dec - 22 May 2026, The Athenaeum Theatre
Journey through the emotional landscapes of Vivaldi's *Four Seasons* alongside a selection of other treasured works, all performed in an intimate, atmospheric setting. The ensemble's expressive interpretations reveal new details within these masterpieces, turning each movement into a vivid portrait of nature, mood, and imagination.
Ballet of Lights: Cinderella
23 Jan - 16 May 2026, Capitol Theatre
This reimagined *Cinderella* brings the fairytale world to life with luminous staging and graceful, contemporary ballet. Each momentfrom the shimmering transformation to the sweeping ballroom scenesunfolds in a cascade of colour and light, offering audiences a magical and modern take on the story they love.
Ballet of Lights: Peter Pan
7 Dec - 21 March 2026, Capitol Theatre
Follow Peter, Wendy, and the Lost Boys as they soar through a glittering reinterpretation of *Peter Pan*, where light projections and imaginative choreography guide the audience into a vibrant world of flight and fantasy. This visually rich performance turns the familiar tale into an electrifying, immersive experience for dreamers of all ages.
Candlelight: 90s Unplugged
21 Feb - 23 May 2026, The Athenaeum Theatre
Celebrate the decade that shaped a generation with acoustic interpretations of iconic 90s hits. Under the warm ambience of candlelight, each song takes on new emotional depth, inviting audiences to rediscover familiar favourites through intimate arrangements and heartfelt performance.
Candlelight: A Tribute To Abba
5 Feb 2026, Fitzroy Town Hall
This uplifting tribute transforms ABBA's greatest hits into elegant, candlelit arrangements that highlight the band's irresistible hooks and harmonies. Audiences can expect a night of nostalgia, joy, and glowing musical celebration in one of Melbourne's most atmospheric venues.
Candlelight: Coldplay and Ed Sheeran
30 Jan 2026, The Athenaeum Theatre
Experience the heartfelt storytelling of Ed Sheeran and the anthemic sweep of Coldplay as a live ensemble reimagines their most beloved songs. Candlelight adds a layer of intimacy and atmosphere, illuminating the emotional core of each track.
Candlelight: Queen vs. ABBA
30 - 31 Jan 2026, The Athenaeum Theatre
This dynamic concert places the anthems of Queen and the irresistible pop brilliance of ABBA side-by-side, offering fans a thrilling musical showdown. With acoustic arrangements that amplify both drama and charm, it's an evening of unforgettable melodies glowing with atmospheric warmth.
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