Court Theatre opening a vital step in Christchurch's recovery

The public opening of the new Court Theatre on Saturday 10th December will a vital step towards restoring the cultural life of the people of Christchurch, according to Creative New Zealand Chief Executive Stephen Wainwright.

Commenting on the reopening, Wainwright this week stated "the drive and commitment of Felicity Price and the trustees, and the Court Theatre team lead by Philip Aldridge has been extraordinary and inspiring.

“The creation of this new 400 seat theatre in a former granary just nine months after the February earthquake is an example of the innovation and can-do attitude of The Court.  It has been built in just 16 weeks.

“It will provide a much anticipated injection of entertainment, diversion and pleasure as the city faces continuing challenge and change.

“The Court and all those who have supported it over the past 40 years know how important the theatre is to Christchurch.  It is a telling reminder of The Court’s place in the hearts, minds and wallets of the national theatre community, that across the country New Zealanders have contributed to its rebuilding.

“At Creative New Zealand we are pleased to have played our part."

Creative New Zealand provided an Emergency Assistance Grant of $500,000 to The Court to assist with the refit of the new theatre. This is in addition to committing funding of $892,000 per annum in 2012 and 2013 through the Arts Leadership Investment (Toi Tōtara Haemata) programme.

Funding for the rebuild has been raised internationally and nationally, including $2.5 million from the Christchurch Earthquake Appeal Trust.

Wainwright added "as well as The Court, we have seen progress elsewhere, such as a gallery and artists’ studios opened at Chambers @241, the Christchurch Arts Festival held over several weekends, and the successful presentation of the 6thSCAPE Christchurch Biennial. 

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