Monash University announces refurbishment of iconic Robert Blackwood Hall
Robert Blackwood Hall (Photo credit: David Collopy)
Opened in 1971, the Robert Blackwood Hall is one of Melbourne’s largest and most prestigious venues. Named after Monash University’s founding Chancellor, Sir Robert Blackwood, the building was designed by Sir Roy Grounds and has been home to performances and graduation ceremonies for decades.
Monash University Performing Arts Centres (MPAC) has proudly welcomed back audiences to the hall following the completion of phase one of a significant refurbishment spanning 2024 – 2026. The much-needed works included the installation of new carpets and seating in the stalls and balcony, new airlocks, essential accessibility upgrades, future-proofed cabling, and a new acoustic treatment to rear wall of the stalls.
Phase one sees the number of accessible and companion seats located at the front and rear of the auditorium increased from eight to twenty, and the installation of temporary ramps to improve accessibility ahead of permanent phase two works.
Robert Blackwood Hall (Photo credit: David Collopy)
“Over the past 50 years, our surrounding communities have enjoyed an experience in the Hall in one way or another. Perhaps at their own graduation ceremony, listening to the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, or even watching a family member perform on the stage. We are delighted to be upgrading the experience of the venue for generations to come,” says MPAC General Manager and AAPPAC Executive Committee member Damien Boyle.
The hall has a well-deserved reputation for high-quality acoustic performances and is ideally suited to classical and choral concerts. It houses the resplendent Sir Louis Matheson pipe organ, unique in the southern hemisphere and built by renowned German organ maker Jürgen Ahrend, and two Steinway model D concert grand pianos. The hall has fixed seating for up to 1,515 patrons.
The foyers house larger-than-life artworks by distinguished Australian artists, including Arthur Boyd, and the dazzling Lindesay Clark stained glass window designed by Leonard French – famous for designing the ceiling of the National Gallery of Victoria’s Great Hall. Monash University is committed to sustainable development and has ensured components of the Hall’s 1,598 27 to 53 year old seats were recycled and reused.
Phases two and three of the project aim to continue to revitalise the iconic and culturally significant concert hall for the first time since 1971 with the installation of a passenger lift from the foyer to all upward levels, new accessible dressing rooms, new bars, and a new box office, all while preserving the integrity of the original Sir Roy Grounds architecture.
See what’s on in the Robert Blackwood Hall and what’s on at MPAC.