Morning Music at the Clocktower Centre in Moonee Ponds
There’s something special about a morning filled with music, laughter and community – and that’s exactly what you’ll find at the Morning Music program at the Clocktower Centre in Moonee Ponds. We send our contributor Dimi along to a performance, and she comes back buzzing. The atmosphere is warm, welcoming, and just the right mix of professional polish and relaxed fun.
For many locals, Morning Music is a regular fixture in the diary. It’s a chance to enjoy some of Australia’s top performers without the late-night finish. Each show begins at 11am, making it the perfect outing with friends, or a treat for yourself before lunch in Puckle Street.
Clocktower Centre Morning Music
Dimi’s review
We had the pleasure of watching Wish Upon a Star: The Disney Songbook by Danielle Matthews at the Clocktower Centre in Moonee Ponds – and what a voice! Danielle was marvellous.
The songs brought back so many nostalgic memories of childhood Disney films, and now I’m sharing those same songs with my grandchildren. I even found myself becoming emotional during a couple of the numbers.
Danielle is such a professional, and her band was spot on. I especially loved how she introduced each song with a personal memory – it made the show even more special.
Getting there was easy. We parked near Moonee Ponds Junction in the central median strip (just check the signage!) and there’s excellent public transport access with trams and buses stopping right nearby. There’s also a drop-off point at the front of the theatre. Inside, access was simple and welcoming.
After the show, we enjoyed lunch at the lovely on-site café.The Clocktower Centre has a fantastic line-up of artists performing throughout the year. I’d definitely recommend checking their program online – you won’t be disappointed!
Upcoming Morning Music Shows
Practically Perfect: The Songs of Julie Andrews
Tuesday 14 October 2025, 11am
With Rosa McCarty and Jonathan Guthrie-Jones, this is a heartfelt tribute to the timeless elegance and unforgettable music of Dame Julie Andrews.
Cilla: You’re My World
Tuesday 11 November 2025, 11am
Danielle O’Malley steps into the shoes of beloved UK icon Cilla Black in a cabaret that blends powerhouse vocals with humour and charm.
Rejoice and Be Merry
Tuesday 9 December 2025, 11am
A festive concert with tenor Roy Best, singer-actor Michelle Fitzmaurice, funnyman Christopher McKenna and pianist William Schmidt. Expect Christmas classics, modern favourites and plenty of laughs.
Why Locals Love Morning Music
Part of the magic is in the atmosphere. Morning Music shows are professional yet friendly, polished yet welcoming. The program attracts a loyal following of music lovers, many of whom return again and again to enjoy the variety of genres, the comfort of daytime performances, and the chance to connect with their local community.
And for those who attend regularly, a Clocktower Membership is a smart option. Members enjoy exclusive discounts and pre-sales across selected shows, including Morning Music, meaning you can save while supporting the arts close to home.
How much are tickets?
Enjoy top-quality live performances at great value.
- Member Price: $23
- Single Ticket: $26 ($30 with booking fee)
- Five-Show Morning Music Series Package: $115 (no longer available for 2025)
Please note: All bookings for non-members (excluding 5-show packages) incur a $4 transaction fee per booking, whether purchased online, by phone, or in person.
For tickets, book online, contact the Box Office on (03) 9243 9191 or email enquiries@clocktowercentre.com.au
What else is on at the Clocktower Centre?
The Clocktower Centre is more than a theatre – it’s a cultural hub for Moonee Valley and beyond. Alongside Morning Music, the venue hosts:
- Workshops and classes for all ages, from drama to creative arts.
- Dance for Seniors with the Australian Ballet, a wonderful program running throughout the year, designed especially for people aged 60+ who want to move, stretch and enjoy the grace of ballet-inspired movement.
- Children’s Space, a quiet room with toys and books for kids, with toilets and baby change facilities.
- School holiday programs, perfect for keeping younger family members entertained.
- Live performances and theatre, with a mix of touring productions and local talent.
- Community events and activities, making the centre a vibrant gathering place year-round.
It’s worth checking their calendar regularly to see what’s on – there’s often something unexpected to discover.
Dining Options: can we eat lunch at the Clocktower Centre?
A visit to the Clocktower Centre isn’t just about the show – there are plenty of ways to enjoy food and drink before, during, or after your experience.
Clocktower Café
Open from 8am to 2pm, Monday to Friday, the Clocktower Café is a welcoming spot for a coffee, a light snack, or a wholesome lunch. With free Wi-Fi, plenty of tables and comfy couches, it’s also a great place to relax away from the hustle and bustle.
The café now features a fresh seasonal menu, with options ranging from cakes and light bites to more substantial meals.
Theatre Bar
For evening shows, the Clocktower Theatre Bar adds a touch of indulgence to your theatre outing. Open before performances and during interval, the bar offers wines, beers, spirits, non-alcoholic options and light snacks, including popular cheese platters perfect for sharing.
To make your night even smoother, you can pre-order drinks before the show and have them waiting for you at interval.
Around the Clocktower
If you’d like to extend your outing, there are several excellent dining options just steps away from the Clocktower Centre:
1. Strangeloves Wine Bar
An intimate setting with a focus on beautiful wines and good company. No TVs, no fuss – just the perfect pre- or post-show glass. 3 Montrose Street, Moonee Ponds
2. The Valley Cellar Door
Choose a bottle to take with you to dinner or enjoy a relaxed glass inside their welcoming space. 15A Hall Street, Moonee Ponds
3. Saros Bar & Dining
Stylish and sophisticated, Saros serves modern European flavours paired with fine wines, making it Moonee Valley’s destination for relaxed luxury. 41 Homer Street, Moonee Ponds (inside The Sebel Hotel)
4. Brunetti Classico
A local favourite for Italian coffee, pastries, gelato and hearty meals. Perfect for a casual pre-show dinner or a sweet treat afterwards. 702 Mt Alexander Road, Moonee Ponds (open daily until 9pm)
5. Penny Young
A vibrant spot offering craft beer, wine and a relaxed menu – great for catching up with friends before or after a show. 22 Young Street, Moonee Ponds
Explore the Incinerator Gallery Nearby
Just a short drive (around 5 minutes) from the Clocktower Centre, the Incinerator Gallery is Moonee Valley’s leading public art gallery. Housed in a striking heritage-listed building designed by Walter Burley Griffin, it presents a vibrant program of contemporary art exhibitions, events, and community workshops.
As well as contemporary art exhibitions, the gallery runs engaging programs that pair beautifully with a Morning Music outing:
- The Playground Project exhibition: Explore a vibrant playground inside Incinerator Gallery, featuring interactive installations, historic playground photographs, and a permanent Lozziwurm climbing structure.
- Gallery Sketchers: A relaxed monthly sketching session where you can bring your drawing kit and be inspired by the art on display.
- Art Club: A welcoming group that fosters creativity and connection through shared art-making experiences.
- History Tours: Guided tours exploring the fascinating past of the Incinerator building and its transformation into a cultural landmark.
Pairing a Morning Music concert at the Clocktower with an Incinerator Gallery visit makes for a full, enriching day of arts, history and community.
Incinerator Gallery opening hours:
Tuesday to Sunday: 11am – 4pm
Closed Mondays and public holidays
180 Holmes Road, Aberfeldie VIC 3040
(03) 9243 1750
Plan Your Visit
The Clocktower Centre is located in the heart of Moonee Ponds, with easy access by train, tram and bus.
Clocktower Centre Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrances, lifts and bathrooms
- Seating options for mobility devices
- Hearing loop available in the theatre
Friendly staff are happy to assist with any specific needs.
Getting there
By Public Transport
Train: A 10-minute walk from Moonee Ponds Station (Craigieburn line).
Tram: Route 59 stops right outside on Mt Alexander Road.
Bus: Several local bus routes stop at Moonee Ponds Junction, just steps away.
Parking Options
On-street parking is available on surrounding streets, including Mt Alexander Road and nearby side streets (always check signage for time limits).
Moonee Ponds Junction median strip parking is popular for theatre-goers – convenient, but spots can fill quickly.
Gladstone Street Car Park (opposite Coles) and Hall Street Car Park both provide additional paid parking within walking distance.
Drop-off and pick-up is available directly outside the theatre entrance for ease of access.
Clocktower Centre
750 Mt Alexander Road, Moonee Ponds VIC 3039
Phone: (03) 9375 5555
enquiries@clocktowercentre.com.au
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The Seniors in Melbourne team visited as guests of The Clocktower Centre. All opinions are the writers’ own.
