Melbourne is not known for its arts for nothing! The modern Victorian Arts Centre comprises of a complex of exciting building located next to the south river banks of the Yarra River. There is the Theatres building topped by a stunning laser-lit 115-m high spire and one of Melbourne�s cultural landmarks. The three theatres themselves are underdround: the State Theatre is the home of the Australian Ballet, the Melbourne Theatre Company performs in the Playhouse; and third is a highly adaptable studio space.

Next door is the circular, pill-box shaped Hamer Hall (formerly known as the Melbourne Concert Hall till June 2004). Again just like the Adelaide Festival Hall, it has far superior acoustics to the Sydney Opera House. It looks kind of tame on the outside, but the interior is stunning with colours selected done in mineral colours that reflect the geology of the Australian continent. [see panorama of the Arts Center and Hamer Hall]