Discoteca Italiana at Melbourne Museum

Overview

Opened in April, Melbourne Museum's landmark exhibition ROME: Empire, Power, People invites visitors to explore the rise, rule and legacy of perhaps history's greatest empire. Tracing the sprawling civilisation — which spanned three enormous continents at its peak — the exhibition charts Rome's story through statues, mosaics, frescoes, jewellery, everyday objects, and more, none of which have been presented in Melbourne before.

Yet the Melbourne Museum is set to complement the exhibition with a more contemporary slice of Italian culture for one night only, adding energy and romance to the mix. Held from 7–11pm on Saturday, June 6, the museum's lower ground floors will transform into Discoteca Italiana — an after-hours pairing of modern spirit and ancient majesty, featuring non-stop dancing and curated food moments beneath three spinning mirror balls.

Centred around a trio of DJ performances, the lineup features Italo pop diva and disco aficionado Tanzer. Having spun tunes at Paris Fashion Week, the Sydney Opera House and World Pride, let yourself get caught up in her crowd-pleasing celebration of Italian dance culture. Then, Melbourne's Hysteric and Dischi Marciano will dig deep into their Italian record bags, bringing new hits and underground classics to the dance floor.

What's more, you'll encounter delicious tiramisu, gelati carts and roving cannoli from Brunetti Classico and Floridia Cheese. At the same time, Espresso Social Club will keep guests on their feet with Italian-style coffee and espresso martinis. There's also the chance to snap a vintage disco pic in the Amore Photo Booth, get a tarot and love reading inspired by Italian mysticism, and, of course, wander ROME thanks to exclusive after-dark access with every ticket.

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Images: Supplied.