fortyfivedownstairs
45 Flinders Lane
Melbourne 3000

In 2002, fortyfivedownstairs was officially launched as Melbourne’s newest arts venue. Hundreds of exhibitions, music recitals, theatre performances, forums and other exquisite events later – fortyfivedownstairs has established itself as one of Melbourne’s most renowned and multi-faceted creative hubs. As an unfunded and not-for-profit organisation we continue to support independent, experimental and thought-provoking art forms, striving to make money for artists – not from them.

Centrally located in the heart of Melbourne’s theatre district, fortyfivedownstairs is found within a beautiful, brick 19th Century building and features a theatre and two gallery spaces.

“I go to fortyfivedownstairs with a sense of anticipation, certain that what I will be offered is unique and the best of its type. When I leave, part of me is always different. I will always come back.”
Bill Cole, August 2009

Our galleries are located on the first level down. The two gallery spaces are wonderfully simple with their white walls, wooden floors and soft light. They provide a perfect blank canvas for the artworks displayed within.

“From an aesthetic point of view, the exhibiting space at fortyfivedownstairs has a rightness to it. .. The spaces, and here I speak of both galleries, work for all kinds of exhibitions.” Cathy Drummond and Bill Hay, August 2009

Our theatre is on the next floor down; an intimate, versatile and grungy space which transforms with every production and show held within its unpainted brick walls.

Come and see an exhibition or theatre show at fortyfivedownstairs!
See what is currently on in the fortyfivedownstairs galleries and theatre here.


fortyfivedownstairs aims to:

  • + present quality productions of new and classic theatre,
  • + encourage innovation, new ideas and hybrid art forms,
  • + give an opportunity to show work in development,
  • + provide opportunities for artists not represented by commercial galleries to exhibit in an inner city gallery.
  • + provide personalised service to artists, performers, patrons and visitors to the space.

It is a non-profit tax deductible incorporated association, under the artistic direction of Mary Lou Jelbart, writer, broadcaster and reviewer. The Board is chaired by Julian Burnside QC, and the Treasurer is well known specialist arts accountant Tom Lowenstein.

All donations to fortyfivedownstairs are tax deductible.  To support independent art donate here.

Artists and Curators: Download information about exhibition proposals and gallery conditions here.
Performers and Directors: Download information about theatre proposals and conditions here.