Melbourne’s circus and physical theatre scene is set for a major boost, with the acclaimed Flying Fruit Fly Circus appointed as the new head tenant of the purpose-built facility at 50 Perry Street, Collingwood. This marks a bold new chapter for the sector with the launch of Circus Centre Melbourne—a vibrant hub dedicated to performance, training, and creative development.
Minister for Creative Industries Colin Brooks announced the appointment, calling it a “game-changer” that will “support the next generation of performing artists.” Originally developed with Circus Oz in 2014, the state-owned venue will now be reinvigorated under the stewardship of one of Australia’s most successful regional creative organisations.
Founded in 1979 in Albury-Wodonga, Flying Fruit Fly Circus is the nation’s only full-time youth circus school. With a global reputation for producing elite performers and original works, the company will now expand its reach with a new Melbourne-based team tasked with running the site.
The centre will feature two large studios, flexible rehearsal spaces, and areas for collaboration—all available at affordable hire rates. In addition to supporting day-to-day practice, the venue will drive long-term sector sustainability through new development programs and business support for emerging companies.
Flying Fruit Fly Circus CEO Richard Hull said, “Expanding our footprint across two sites will strengthen pathways for young circus artists into professional careers and provide extraordinary new opportunities for the Circus and Physical Theatre sector in Victoria.”
Circus Centre Melbourne is expected to open later this year.
