Whenever I have an audition that requires a 'Self-Tape', I head straight to Tafta to get it filmed…read more The first time I went I had difficulty finding the place, after you pass the coin laundry you'll see a small door with a black and blue sign in the window stating 'Tafta'. You go through the door and straight up the stairs and you're in. If you're coming here for a self-tape audition you'll need to phone in first and book a time. Both John and James are wonderful, they give exceptional advice and help you achieve the best possible take. The place itself contains 1 large main room where acting classes are held, there is then a smaller room where taping is done. A camera and microphone faces a blue screen background where you can either stand/sit for your take. My takes here always turn out to be good quality thanks to their lighting, camera and microphone setup.

Great little theatre for live performance, not too big, not too small…read more Love the restored front facade to this place

The Clocktower Centre has stood as a space for the community from its humble origins as Essendon…read moretown hall, to its current use as a space for the performing arts, local events and ceremonies. Predominantly used as a theatre and concert space, the Clocktower is used by schools, local amateur groups and professional productions.It was also used for my highschool grauation ceremony. Its great to have such a multifunctional space in the area that can really be useful to the local community Its well kept, modern and i a real asset to the area. Check their website for upcoming productions.

This gem of a performance space is nestled on a lot in Carlton. The Melba Spiegeltent (literally…read moremeaning 'mirrored tent') is beautiful. It was originally built 100 years ago in Germany. Mirrors adorn the wood posts and coloured glass fills the windows. There are cosy booths circling the back. But I prefer a seat out on the floor where my view isn't obstructed by those pesky (but pretty) mirrored posts. There is also a basic bar at the back with beer and wine to quench your thirst during performances. The venue is home to Circus Oz, but truth be told, I've only seen one-off performances by other artists here. The programming seems to lean towards the safe side - with cabarets where your work colleagues or mother could join you for a show. I recommend the Spiegeltent for an atmospheric night of theatre.

Currently undergoing some re-development; it will be so extraordinary and fantastic once those…read morerenovations are completed next year. A great hang out spot where there is a Melbourne Festival lounge available for when this event is on, and of course this establishment is also home to the Sidney Myer Music Bowl for concerts and christmas carol events in the Domain area. The main entrance is situated on St Kilda Road, just opposite the NGV International, and it is divine with quality theatre and classical events. It was interesting taking the tour of the facility, which goes for about an hour off hand. I think off hand the earliest time is 11am, and for $15 a pop; not the best value for money in town; however it was time fairly well spent, plus your given a glass of bubbly all inclusive. A great day design plan would be to enjoy this tour, and then head further down St Kilda Road till you get to the domain and the botanical gardens to finish it off with some high quality nature. Overall, I think this establishment will be more inviting and spectacular once the renovation works are complete. We will have to wait until 2012 and see.

I came for the Kylie on Stage Exhibit - a small but thoughtful display of her stage costumes. They…read moreare gorgeous and it's nice to see all the detail up close, plus learn more about the designers and the inspiration for them. (And it was free!) This venue is also home to ballet performances, stage productions, city tours, and workshops for people of all ages. It's definitely worth checking out their schedule of events. It's a very easy walk from Flinders St Station.