Melbourne is renowned for its live theatre scene, with a scintillating array of productions to enjoy in the CBD each week from blockbuster stage shows and dazzling musicals to the more experimental.

And with Next Hotel’s locale right in the heart of the Melbourne’s theatredistrict – counting the historic Princess Theatre, Her Majesty’s and Comedy Theatre our neighbours – the best of the best is always an easy walk away.

Read on for our picks of nearby performances to add to your Next itinerary…

Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap – don’t just see it, solve it.

It’s the thrilling West End show that’s set records as the world’s longest running play, and now Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap is coming to Melbourne. Will you be able to solve the murder mystery by the world’s best-selling author yourself?

As news spreads of a murder in London, a group of seven strangers find themselves snowed in at a remote countryside guesthouse. When a police sergeant arrives, the guests discover – to their horror – that a killer is in their midst. One by one, the suspicious characters reveal their sordid pasts. Which one is the murderer? Who will be their next victim?

The Mousetrap has kept audiences from all over the globe on the edge of their seats for the past 70 years, and this adaptation directed by Australian theatre icon Robyn Nevin will allow Melbourne audiences to finally solve the case of this genre defining murder mystery.

And as official hotel partner, Next Hotel Melbourne has exclusive theatre packages including the best seats in the house + pre theatre dinner menus at chef’s hatted La Madonna (including a special edition line up of cocktails created in honour of the production) to add to your thrilling night out.

From February 17
Comedy Theatre
More here

The bittersweet cult film on stage – Cruel Intentions: the ’90s Musical

Following standing ovations across the country, Cruel Intentions: the ’90s Musical will be making its triumphant return to Melbourne’s Athenaeum Theatre in February for a dash of 90’s nostalgia fuelled fun.

Based on the acclaimed Hollywood film, this hit ‘musical sets a scandalous tone for romance and seduction, with hilarious scenes and uplifting performances that will have you singing and dancing in the aisles to a highly entertaining 90’s play-list.

Slip into your favourite crop-top and cargo pants combo and get your tickets as it’s playing for a strictly limited season.

From February 16
Athenaeum Theatre
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The Australian premier of & Juliet – the ultimate Shakespeare remix

What if the ending we all know so well, was just the beginning? What if Juliet chose her own fate? A celebration of self-discovery and second chances, the award-winning & Juliet opens from February at Melbourne’s Regent Theatre for its Australian debut with a cast including Rob Mills and Casey Donovan.

Shakespeare gets a remix by the writer of Schitt’s Creek, David West Read combining glittering pop anthems from legendary songwriter Max Martin and electrifying choreography from Jennifer Weber. This ultimate feel-good musical features favourites from Britney Spears, Backstreet Boys,
Katy Perry, The Weeknd and Kelly Clarkson to name a few to (re)tell the tale of what could have been.

From February 26 for a limited season
Regent Theatre
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Mary Poppins – a supergalifragilistic show for all ages

Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s supercalifragilistic new production of Mary Poppins flies into Melbourne for a strictly limited season.

At its heart , Mary Poppins is an enduring story about family and the infinite possibilities that lie within us all. Rediscover the undeniable magic of one of the world’s most loved tales and show new generations that anything can happen… if you let it.

This must-see theatrical experience for 2023 is a show the whole family can enjoy.

Now playing, until April 2
Her Majesty’s Theatre
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The story continues exclusively in Melbourne – Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

Prepare to experience a one of a kind theatrical event, at the Australian home of Harry Potter, Melbourne’s Princess Theatre.

It’s time for a new adventure at Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.  This brand-new, reimagined production arrives direct from Broadway and can now be enjoyed in one evening. It promises more magic per minute with epic illusions and spellbinding moments to leave all ages on the edge of
your seat.

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is the most awarded production in the history of Britain’s Olivier Awards, winning a record breaking nine awards including Best New Play and Best Director. The production has also won six Tony Awards on Broadway, including best play.

Four-ticket packages are our tip to help enjoy the show as a family.

Now playing
Princess Theatre
More here