Bacchus at the Theatre is for anyone curious about, or keen to see, live theatre in Sydney and Melbourne.

We offer a critical thought-provoking reviews and share insights from the Creators behind the shows.

Named in honour of Bacchus, the Roman god of theatre and wine, we pair every show with something to eat or drink. A show night doesn’t need to begin and end with the stage. Bites & Sips has the best spots, whether you’re after a quick meal before curtain up, a late night supper, or just a few nibbles while you’re still buzzing from the final bow. Prefer a nightcap at home? There are recommendations for that too.

And for those keen to uncork and go beyond the glass, delve into the experiential side of wine with intoxicating grape escapes and unfiltered experiences.

Meet the founder

I’m Natasha Ciesielski, founder and editor of Bacchus at the Theatre. I’ve grown up loving the theatre, with a bookcase full of programmes to prove it.

A trained journalist, I began my career at ACP’s SHE magazine, writing about music, film and culture. Leaning into my palate, I went on to cover the latest restaurant and bar openings for Eat Drink Play, Shore Life and Sydney Scoop. Today I write a monthly beverage column and contribute to a range of other publications.

To justify my wine snobbery, I completed WSET Level 2 (with merit) and I’m now studying Level 3. There’s always more to appreciate about grapes.

Our writers

Angela Brand, Melbourne. A bookworm at heart who reviews Melbourne’s drama, independent and fringe theatre, bringing a reader’s eye for story and character.

Marcela Balart, Sydney. A former Wiggle who brings a performer’s eye to her reviews, she’s happiest at a big musical or anything by Shakespeare.

And Bacchus

Bacchus at the Theatre is proudly supported by Bacchus the cat, a British longhair feline who loves wine deliveries, purely for the boxes.