Discoteca Italiana brings Italian buzz to Melbourne Museum

Melbourne Museum will be transformed into a one-night-only Italian nightlife experience on Saturday, June 6, as Discoteca Italiana brings music, food, dancing and after-hours exhibition access to Carlton.

Presented in celebration of the landmark exhibition ROME: Empire, Power, People, the event will take over the ground and lower ground floors of Melbourne Museum from 7pm to 11pm.

Designed as an after-dark celebration of contemporary Italian culture, Discoteca Italiana will combine live music, DJ sets, food experiences and social activations against the backdrop of ancient Roman history.

Under three spinning mirror balls, guests will be invited to dance the night away to a mix of classic and contemporary Italian-inspired sounds, with performances from Italo Pop Diva, opera singer and disco pop star TANZER, Italo Disco DJ Dischi Marciano and the Italo Oracle Hysteric.

Together, the performers will deliver a high-energy soundtrack inspired by Italian dance culture, bringing a distinctly Melbourne nightlife feel to the museum setting.

The event will also offer guests exclusive after-hours access to ROME: Empire, Power, People, allowing visitors to explore stories, artefacts and the atmosphere of Roman art, culture and daily life as part of the evening.

Food will play a major role in the experience, with Brunetti Classico and Floridia Cheese serving tiramisu, gelati carts and roving cannoli throughout the night. Segafredo will also help revive the Espresso Social Club with espressos and espresso martinis.

Other highlights include the Amore Photo Booth, a vintage disco-inspired portrait experience, and Tarot & Love Readings.

Museums Victoria describes the event as a fusion of Italy’s timeless cultural heritage with a contemporary Melbourne nightlife atmosphere, aimed at lovers of Italian culture, music and immersive social experiences.

The program is supported by the Italian Australian Foundation, which works to advance appreciation of Italian culture, skills, language and heritage.

Through the partnership, Museums Victoria will deliver a series of adult and family programs celebrating Italian culture and the impact of Italian Australians in Victoria.

Discoteca Italiana forms part of a broader push by Museums Victoria to broaden its adult programming through experiences that reflect a wider range of voices, cultures and disciplines.

Tickets are on sale now and include entry to ROME: Empire, Power, People.

Discoteca Italiana takes place at Melbourne Museum on Saturday, June 6 from 7pm to 11pm. Tickets are $40 for adults, $35 for members and $30 concession. •