Forget Netflix and Chill: Get off the Couch for Date Night With Dinner and a Show

There’s something undeniably romantic about a night at the theatre: the anticipation, the velvet seats, the sudden hush when the curtain lifts. And with Annie the Musical – the bright and hopeful story of a New York City orphan – now playing in Melbourne, it’s the perfect excuse to plan a date night that trades the couch for something with a little more sparkle.

First staged on Broadway in 1977, Annie has become one of the most beloved musicals of all time, winning Tony Awards and being performed across the globe. Its latest production brings all the charm and optimism of the original, with a cast and design that feel fresh without straying too far from its roots.

And because half the fun of going to a show is what happens before and after, we’ve mapped out a memorable night that channels a little NYC magic right here in Melbourne.

Start with dinner at Pepe’s

Steak tartare with goat’s curd and golden potato chips. A Caesar salad loaded with crisp bacon and anchovies. Spicy rigatoni vodka with just the right balance of heat and cream. Pepe’s Italian & Liquor serves up classic Italian American comfort in a cosy environment. Its winter chalet pop-up is in full swing right now, complete with fairy lights, sleds and woollen throws, setting the mood for a warm pre-show catch-up.

Swing by the bar at Grill Americano

With its glossy fit-out, moody lighting and prime CBD address, Grill Americano feels like it was lifted straight from Midtown Manhattan. The bar is walk-in only, so perch yourself on a stool and order a classic Negroni or its namesake Americano to set the tone – a little hit of NYC elegance before curtain call.

Catch theatre’s favourite orphan on stage

Life’ll feel like Easy Street when you settle into the plush seats of the Princess Theatre to watch 11-year-old Annie’s rags-to-riches story in this musical that’s been delighting viewers for decades. Featuring a talented ensemble cast, beloved songs like Tomorrow and It’s a Hard-Knock Life, and a classic tale that’s being told anew, it’s a stellar pick for date night.

Grab a drink at Nick & Nora’s

After the show, keep the energy going at Nick & Nora’s – a cocktail and champagne bar inspired by the glamour of 1930s New York. Named after the iconic duo from The Thin Man (which itself started as a Broadway hit), the venue channels prohibition-era elegance with plush interiors, theatrical drinks and a touch of mystery.

Finish strong at Baby Driver

If you’re not ready to call it a night, head to Baby Driver, the sibling of cocktail bar Beneath Driver Lane. This upstairs hangout leans into 1970s American jazz and deep funk in its vinyl rotation, and offers a drinks list built for late-night lounging. Expect natural-leaning wines, playful cocktails and high energy.

This article is produced by Broadsheet in partnership with Annie the Musical. Annie is now playing at The Princess Theatre, Melbourne. Find more information and get your tickets at anniethemusical.com.au.