Have a drink on us and explore the depths of The Espy for a tour that is lined with gripping stories from iconic Suzi Q, long time lover and community member of Hotel Esplanade.

A BRIEF HISTORY OF HOTEL ESPLANADE
Hotel Esplanade was originally built as a 60-room hotel in the Renaissance Revival Regency Resort style before alterations in the 1920s transformed it into a celebrated live music venue. From the 90s onwards, The Espy survived numerous sales and a threatened demolition before undergoing a major refurbishment in 2018.

The revived hotel now boasts 12 bars over five levels, three band stages, signalling live music is still a priority, two restaurants and a podcast studio. The Gershwin Room remains relatively untouched, save for a new sound system. Areas previously closed to the public have been opened such as the Ghost of Alfred Felton cocktail bar, bringing to life the story of the philanthropist, chemist and long-time Espy resident.

BEHIND THE SCENES TOUR
History, music and mystery woven with stories and invitations into unseen spaces. See areas and learn stories never revealed to the public before from the tunnel in the cellar to it’s magical transformation today.

Behind The Scenes is a compilation of fond memories and quirky anecdotes. This tour is relaxed by nature and comes with a complimentary beer or wine for you to enjoy with fellow community members, those curious about untold stories and lovers of the Australian live music scene.

Behind The Scenes is just one of the multiple tours offered by The Espy's Arts Program, check out the full program for gripping tales from 'The Ghosts of Hotel Esplanade' to a deep exploration of Melbourne history during the 'Felton Story' and more.

STORYTELLER
A tour led by local ambassador Suzi Q P Dhol, Suzi has been part of Espy life for almost 30 years. She is the president of St Kilda Live Music and the former vice-president of VicMusic. Suzi is third generation St Kilda, now living across the road from her grandfather’s old house.

With experience booking bands in various St Kilda venues since 1990, Suzi approximates having seen a million gigs at The Espy and recounts  just as many sunsets from what used to be called the Nimrod Room which is now our Terrace and Main Bar.

WHEN: Monthly

DURATION: 60 mins

MORE INFO AND ACCESSIBILITY ENQUIRIES: arts@hotelesplanade.com.au

All U18's MUST be accompanied by a legal parent or guardian at all times

**Please arrive 5-10 minutes before the start of your tour. Unfortunately latecomers may not be able to join until a suitable point in the journey.**

We acknowledge the lands on which we present this work are the lands of the Yaluk-ut Weelam people of the Kulin Nations. We pay our respects to their elders, past, present and future.