Christchurch's Isaac Theatre Royal to Remain Closed until October

Christchurch's much-loved and historic Isaac Theatre Royal will be closed for all events until 31st October 2011 while remedial work is planned and undertaken.

The Board and Management of the city's prestigious heritage theatrical venue, have confirmed that based on current structural engineer's assessments and aerial photographs of the venue obtained recently, the 'Grand Old Lady' of New Zealand Theatre will survive beyond 2011 to once again be the premier venue for the theatrical arts industry in Christchurch's rebuilt City Centre.

The October reopening date will be re-assessed in August based on progress of those works at that time.

In a statement General Manager Neil Cox emphasized that "premature statements as to the condition of the city's historic Edwardian theatre venue have previously been delayed until detailed engineers reports on her overall status from were on hand.

"Encouragingly the most recent structural report confirmed; 'the building, although moderately damaged, has performed extremely well in an event much greater than any strengthening was designed for.'

"Detailed assessments by engineers and other consultants are continuing but final reports are taking longer than expected while the strict CBD cordon restrictions remain in place."

An extensive earthquake strengthening program of the 103-year old theatre was completed in 1999 to much higher specifications than required at that time. A major $6.5 million privately funded redevelopment in 2004/05 then upgraded the Theatre's production and hosting facilities and capabilities to modern global standards.

Cox adds that "thankfully the foresight of the Directors and Management of the Theatre Royal Charitable Foundation over those years have without doubt guaranteed her survival through one of one of the most devastating natural events in New Zealand's modern history."

The Isaac Theatre Royal is situated in Christchurch's Gloucester Street close to the middle of the cordoned off CBD 'red-zone'.

Cox highlighted that "the goodwill and support we have received from the wider global entertainment world towards our city, our people and our Theatre has been astounding. We will draw on that good nature and support going forward to ensure Isaac Theatre Royal will be a shining light once again for performing arts in Christchurch."

For more information go to www.isaactheatreroyal.co.nz

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