Melbourne Museum will swap quiet gallery halls for disco, cocktails and late-night Italian energy when Discoteca Italiana takes over the venue for one night only on Saturday 6 June 2026.
Running from 7pm to 11pm, the event transforms the Museum’s Ground and Lower Ground Floors into a celebration of Italian nightlife and culture, created alongside the current exhibition ROME: Empire, Power, People. Guests will be able to explore the exhibition after hours while moving between live music, DJ sets, food pop-ups and themed experiences across the Museum.
Music will sit at the heart of the night, led by Italo-pop performer, opera singer and disco-pop artist Tanzer. DJs Dischi Marciano and Hysteric will also take over the decks, with a soundtrack built around Italian dance culture, disco and live performance.
Italian food and drinks will feature throughout the evening. Brunetti Classico will serve tiramisu, gelati carts and roving cannoli alongside Floridia Cheese, while Segafredo will host the Espresso Social Club pouring espressos and espresso martinis.
Beyond the party atmosphere, the event offers a different way to experience ROME: Empire, Power, People, which explores Roman art, culture and everyday life through artefacts and stories from the empire.
Discoteca Italiana will also feature the Amore Photo Booth, described as a vintage disco-inspired portrait experience complete with props and themed lighting. Tarot & Love Readings will run throughout the evening in a candlelit setting inspired by Italian mysticism.
The event is supported by the Italian Australian Foundation, helping Museums Victoria deliver cultural events celebrating Italian heritage and the influence of Italian Australians in Victoria.
Tickets are on sale now, priced at $40 for adults, $35 for members and $30 for concession holders, with entry to ROME: Empire, Power, People included in the ticket price. More information and tickets here.
