Eight Ideas for a Great Night Out in Melbourne When You Need a Bit of Joy in Your Life

This nine-time Tony-nominated musical is making its mark on Melbourne audiences. Featuring songs written by pop genius Max Martin — the one behind hits of Britney Spears, the Backstreet Boys and Kelly Clarkson — this energetic production will have you out of your seat and singing your heart out.

As the name teases, & Juliet is about what might have happened if Juliet (played by Lorinda May Merrypor) chose her own fate. Given a second chance at life, what would she do and who would she be? The stellar all-Australian company is a diverse slate of all-stars and reflects the message of the show. There’s Rob Mills (as Shakespeare), Amy Lehpamer (as Anne), Casey Donovan (as Angélique) among those contributing to the magic on stage.

From the writer of Schitt’s Creek, the story follows the titular Juliet on her road to self-discovery — complete with joyous music, electrifying choreography and plenty of laughs. You only have until July to see this musical so purchase tickets now to ensure you don’t miss out on a great night out.

Founders Freya Berwick and Mary Minas welcome you to their contemporary bathhouse in a converted Collingwood warehouse. Welcoming all genders, promoting ancient wisdom and boasting modern design, Sense of Self is the spot for some after-dark R&R. Soak in communal baths or relax into a massage — here, you’re encouraged to come as you are and take what you need.

The facilities at the bathhouse include a Finnish-style sauna at a steamy 80 degrees, a large 39-degree mineral bath and a cold plunge pool. Passes give you access to all the facilities and start at $59 for two hours. Bathing on the weekend will set you back $69 for two hours, or you can get discounted multi-packs from $169 for three passes.

After spending a night revelling in all of & Juliet’s infectious pop, it wouldn’t be a shock if you were desperate to belt out a few of your favourite hits. Well, shimmy on over to Kono Karaoke, Melbourne’s first coin-booth-operated karaoke joint. Located on Little Lonsdale Street, this unsuspecting two-level location is filled with several disco-lit booths that each come stocked with two microphones and a wide range of songs to choose from.

Each song will cost you $2, but there are packages if you decide to sing more. There are props you can use, and if & Juliet has inspired you to transform into your own kind of pop star, you can even take to a stage. With enough space for a small group, songs in a variety of languages and a $2 drink vending machine, you’re set to have a ripper night out on a budget.

As part of Melbourne Fringe, The Rest Is Up to You is a free exhibition currently on display at the State Library Victoria — and a fabulous way to immerse yourself in the brilliance of the arts. It explores the previous 40 years of the Fringe Festival — how it started, how it’s changed and what fun has been had — while looking forward at the next 40.

This immersive experience includes video and sound installations; archives of posters, flyers and artworks; and interactive talks and conversations with artists, teams and audiences who are excited to share their stories and inspire emerging talent. Running until Tuesday, July 11, this exhibition proves just how fundamental the people are to festivals like this, spotlighting how they’ve shaped Fringe and reminding us that that everybody has a place here. It’s open 10am to 6pm, daily.

Flash Forward is the project that was focused on Melbourne’s creative culture and unlocking the hidden potential of some of Melbourne’s laneways. In 2022, the team commissioned more than 40 artists to create works across 40 laneways using lighting, music and creative installations.

All lanes have now been launched and while the events may be over, the art remains — so one night soon, rug up and walk the streets to catch a glimpse of what’s been created. From Rose Lane to Ulster Lane and everything in between, you will see large-scale designs, murals and even photographs. Each has a story to tell, so go and decide which one resonates the most with you.

Image: Filthy Ratbag by Ian Laidlaw.

Since it’s opening in 2018, B. Lucky & Sons has been the go-to spot for adults that want to let their inner child out for the night. Hidden behind the  façade of a pawn shop, first-time visitors are in for a delightful surprise. Flashing neon lights, the ding-ding-ding of arcade games, glittering chandeliers overhead and plush velvet booths to sit in — it’s a place dedicated to fun and there’s no subtlety about it.

It is no surprise that this venue is another from the FUNLAB family, the team who introduced us to Holey Moley and Strike Bowling. There’s a bright food and drinks menu, complete with toasties, pizzas, loaded fries and cocktails like Berry Pop bubble tea so you’re sure to have a joy-filled night out at this player’s paradise.

Image: Zennieshia Photography

Knowledge is power and you will feel like a superhero after a night of trivia. If sport brings your gang together, head to The Rose in Fitzroy on Monday nights. This locally adored, community-focused ‘footy’ pub has been hosting guests for over 150 years, boasting quality produce on the menu, caring staff behind the bar and a love of Aussie athleticism.

Is your team wanting to quench their thirst? Moon Dog in Preston has the Wednesday night quiz for you. There’s nothing quite like a good craft beer alongside some brain-busters, and the legends here have so many good frothy ones on offer (72 taps to be precise). Add that to some delicious pizza and a quiz night hosted by the experts at Funky Bunch and you’ve set yourself up for a cracking night out.

A CBD trivia tournament with a standout $22 parma on offer — where do we sign up? Head to Natural History Public Bar (pictured above) on Wednesdays for old-school New York vibes with the smartest (or most worldly, or up-on-pop-culture) pals you’ve got.

Image: Chip Mooney