What's on - fortyfivedownstairs Anniversary Showcase

In celebration of ten marvellous years, fortyfivedownstairs presents the fortyfivedownstairs Anniversary Showcase a performance party that will include many of the early musical performers, featuring Fiona Roake (performer), Faye Bendrups and Guillermo Anad (tango musicians), Michael Dalley (performer), Benn Bennett (cabaret performer), Henry Manetta (singer), the inimitable Moira Finucane (The Burlesque Hour)… and more to be announced!

10 years ago, on a hot summer evening, fortyfivedownstairs was officially launched as Melbourne’s newest arts venue. It was a gallery by day and theatre by night on one floor of a 19th Century rag trade building in Flinders Lane’s gallery precinct.

Hundreds of exhibitions, musical recitals, theatrical performances, readings, debates and other entertaining events later – fortyfivedownstairs has grown in size and reputation, establishing itself as one of Melbourne’s most renowned and multi-faceted venues, supporting independent, experimental and thought-provoking art forms.

Described by The Age as “Melbourne’s best-kept secret” – fortyfivedownstairs’ real secret is that it is a not-for-profit and unfunded operation. Its survival has been due to the dedication of its staff and volunteers, its Board (including Chair and co-founder, arts philanthropist Julian Burnside QC) as well as the committed support of a small number of private donors.

Artistic Director and co-founder, Mary Lou Jelbart is proud of fortyfivedownstairs’ philosophy, supporting innovative and upcoming artists like they are part of the family. “We do our utmost for all artists who produce work in the space – we want to make every success for them, not make money from them.”

The fortyfivedownstairs Anniversary Showcase will be a memorable night of revelry. Proceeds from the event will go to the performers.

fortyfivedownstairs Anniversary Showcase
Venue: fortyfivedownstairs, 45 Flinders Lane, Melbourne
Date: Saturday, 25 February 2012
Time: 7:30pm (duration 180 minutes)
Tickets: $45 (includes complimentary drink on arrival)