The Loons theatre reopens in Christchurch

The Loons theatre group, without a permanent home since the 2011 Canterbury earthquakes, has begun performing again at the Lyttelton Arts Factory (LAF).

Operating as a school hall by day and a theatre and teaching venue by night, the recently reopened venue will stage major shows during school holidays when the group will have full access to the space.

Its first major production and The Loons first major show in five years, an adaptation of British play Road, being held from13th to 23rd July, sold out in just four days.

The approximate $315,000 cost of strengthening the hall to make it suitable for circus work and lighting rigs, fitting retractable seating and theatre equipment was covered by The Loons as part of a deal with the Ministry of Education.

The Loons had intended to return to their original home in the Lyttelton Working Men's Club, which is being strengthened and restored, but could not agree over the terms of a new lease.

The Loons was formed in 2006 and built a thriving theatre company in the Lyttelton Working Men's Club drawing crowds with alternative quiz nights featuring contortionists and stilt walkers, while also developing hit shows like The Butler, which toured the world with a thrilling combination of circus skills and theatre.

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