THE ASSEMBLY HALL (WERNER BRODBECK HALL)

156 Collins Street, Melbourne Vic 3000 

(near the corner of Collins and Russell Streets).

Melways Ref: Map 43, J8

Exterior of the historic Assembly Hall on Collins Street

In 2026 the RMP choir will rehearse on Tuesday evenings, from 7pm until 9.30pm in the historic Assembly Hall, at 157 Collins Street, Melbourne. The Hall is now known as the Werber Brodbeck Hall. It is part of the Scots’ Church complex.

Other rehearsals are scheduled around major performances, and are usually held on Friday evenings, at performance venues or at the Assembly Hall.

The Assembly Hall is musically well equipped, with fine acoustics, a rear balcony, cathedral ceilings, the RMP’s Grand piano, and an early Fincham Organ. The venue has a great history of musical performances throughout its century-long history.

Originally designed by Henry H. Kemp for the Presbyterian Church, and built by Swanson Bros. in 1914-15 on the site of the old Scots Church manse, the impressive four-storey building  (the fourth storey was added c.1935) accommodates a hall with gallery, as well as offices and a bookshop. The street facade, return, and tower are faced in rock- faced sandstone with dressed stone mouldings.

The Assembly Hall is of architectural significance as a late example of fine Gothic Revival architecture. The careful attention paid by the architect to style, materials and massing has resulted in a building which harmonises with the neighbouring Scots’ Church and which is an integral part of the Collins Street streetscape. The Gothic theme continues inside the building, most interestingly in the foyer, grand staircase and hall.

The Assembly Hall is of architectural significance as an example of HH Kemp’s work.  The Gothic style employed in the Assembly Hall shows his determination to ensure the sympathetic integration of his building with the Scots Church next door. The Assembly Hall is of historical significance for its substantial character and prestigious address, reflecting the fact that when it was originally built the Victorian branch was the largest, wealthiest and most influential branch of the Presbyterian Church in Australia.

Detail of the Gothic Interior. The entrance foyer and staircase.

The Assembly Hall (Werner Brodbeck Hall). The new home of the RMP.