$1 million for ASB Theatre in Blenheim

The newly opened ASB Theatre in Blenheim will receive $1 million from the New Zealand Government.

Announced after a visit to the venue by New Zealand Prime Minister John Key, the funding represents the first financial backing the Marlborough Civic Theatre Trust project has received from central Government.

The funding will reportedly help reduce bank loans underwritten by the Marlborough Council to support the state-of-the-art new theatre, which opened in March.

Commenting on the backing, New Zealand Arts, Culture and Heritage Minister Maggie Barry stated "this is an important project for Marlborough which until now has not received direct central Government support.

“We recognise the need to help the efforts made by the community and council to make the theatre a sustainable prospect, and I’m pleased to announce our $1 million commitment today.”

As a multi-purpose building with an auditorium able to hold more than 700 people and conference facilities, the theatre represents a significant economic asset for Marlborough as well as a cultural centre capable of hosting world-class performances.

While operational, the building is still incomplete with construction continuing between shows.

Its most recent event, a performance of Mamma Mia! has sold 4,000 tickets.

During his visit, Prime Minister Key said the theatre was "absolutely beautiful" and congratulated the Trust on what had been achieved..

Key stated that facilities like the theatre were incredibly important to communities like Blenheim, particularly for the benefit of young people.

The ASB Theatre has previously received a combined $1.33 million from the Lottery Community Facilities and Significant Projects funds.

18th March 2016 - BLENHEIM’S ASB THEATRE FINALLY OPENS

13th January 2016 - KIRI TE KANAWA TO PERFORM IN MARLBOROUGH’S NEW ASB THEATRE

3rd March 2015 - BLENHEIM’S NEW ASB THEATRE NEARS COMPLETION

5th March 2014 - EARTHQUAKE STABILITY FEARS FORCE CLOSURE OF HAWKE’S BAY OPERA HOUSE