Naturists might be dismayed at the dwindling number of Melbourne beaches with an optional clothing policy, but the art world increasingly seems to be stepping in to fill the gap.

Naked gallery tours have recently been offered in several Australian cities and a new production at St Kilda's Alex Theatre is now promoting a one-off night where audiences can leave their clothing at the door.

Carina Waye has the starring role in Citizen Theatre's NUDE – Beneath the Beauty Spot, a tribute to the life of Marilyn Monroe

Citizen Theatre's NUDE – Beneath the Beauty Spot is a tribute to the life of Marilyn Monroe exploring the intersections of fame and the female body.

Writer-director Jayde Kirchert​ has pointed to the star's occasional habit of giving interviews naked.

"It would be difficult not to include some nudity in a show celebrating Marilyn Monroe."

The nude night is Wednesday, August 19, while the rest of the season (where clothes are mandatory) is now running until August 23.

citizentheatre.com.au.