Emily Blunt backs Lyttelton theatre rebuild

British film star Emily Blunt has taken on the role of patron of a campaign to raise $600,000 to restore the Loons Theatre in the Christchurch suburb of Lyttelton.

The Loons Theatre, which survived the 22nd February 2011 Christchurch was badly damaged in the June tremors. Seeking money to rebuild the new theatre, Blunt (pictured below) has lent her support to a fundraising campaign for the rebuild.

The star of Young Victoria and The Devil Wears Prada recently told Fairfax media "what a complete nightmare. I am so sorry your lovely community was shattered with the quake. I would be happy to help by lending my name."
Blunt said in a statement from Los Angeles.

Loons Artistic Director Mike Friend said $400,000 had already been raised for the repair and strengthening work, but a further $200,000 was needed for the refit.

Friend said he was thrilled Blunt had agreed to become the theatre's patron. He taught Blunt for two years at a British drama school and also worked with her on a production at the Edinburgh Festival in 1999.

Friend stated "this is great news. It is good for all of us. It is good for the theatre company and the Loons and for Lyttelton."

The new Loons will be a "community arts centre" with a bar in the basement of the building.

Friend added "we want to open on September 7. That is when the performers are coming back."

Fundraising has already attracted $250,000 from the Mayoralty Fund, $85,000 from the Todd Foundation and $65,000 from the earthquake fund administered by the prime minister.

Blunt's patronage comes after The Court Theatre secured British actor Dame Maggie Smith as a patron for its fundraising efforts.

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

Rebuilding leisure facilities and planning the future of leisure in the new Christchurch will be a feature in the March/April 2012 issue of Australasian Leisure Management.

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