UPDATE: The Rolling Stones have called on Melbourne to help save the Palais Theatre.
Legendary frontman Mick Jagger reportedly made the comments while performing at the Rod Laver Arena on Wednesday night.
“I’d just like to tell you, we played at the Palais Theatre about 50 years ago,” he told the crowd.
“The Palais Theatre is just about still there – give generously.”
Concert goer and St Kilda resident Eva Migdal said it felt “very personalised” and “special”.
“He had strong memories of being here and felt a connection to the Palais experience, as so many of us do,” she said.
Social media campaign ilovemypalais posted the news on their Facebook page on Thursday.
“We’re thrilled! Last night, at their Melbourne concert, Mick Jagger asked the crowd to get behind the Palais Theatre,” the post stated.
Campaigner Liz Van Dort said the Rolling Stones first toured Australia in January and February of 1965, playing two gigs at the Palais.
“At the time they were one of the hottest bands in the UK, following the release of their second album,” she said.
“Now, almost 50 years since the Stones played there, the Palais Theatre is at a crossroads.”
Port Phillip Council has estimated it will cost up to $40 million to restore the crumbling 87-year-old venue, in need of significant structural work.
The council has promised to chip in $7.5 million if the state government forks out $25 million.
The government owns the heritage listed building, while the council has managed it since 2008.
The council last week voted to open up expressions of interest for the iconic venue’s long-term lease, which will close on December 19.
Other celebrity supporters of the campaign include Molly Meldrum, Dave Hughes, Magda Szubanski, Tina Arena and Tex Perkins.
