The president invites you to help us on our next project
A Vision Years in the Making
For as long as I have been part of this incredible community, the dream of upgrading our beloved theatre has burned brightly. I can still picture myself sitting in a 5–10 year planning meeting all the way back in 2011, surrounded by fellow enthusiasts, all of us buzzing with ideas and optimism. Yet the reality was daunting—mountains of costs, endless planning, and the sheer effort required to bring big visions to life. Let us remember, we are all volunteers here. Most of us juggle full-time work and families, and when we come together, it is because we love the magic of theatre, not endless meetings, strategic plans, or financial headaches. Our hearts are on the stage—we just want to put on a show that makes people smile, laugh, and feel something special.
Dreams for the Future
But oh how we dreamed. Our conversations overflowed with hope for the future:
- Making the theatre earthquake-resilient
- Potentially buying the land next door to expand our possibilities
- Widening our walls to welcome even more theatre lovers
Inspired Brainstorming
Our brainstorming sessions have been nothing short of inspiring, capturing ideas that would make our theatre a true home for creativity and community:
- Convert entrance to Greenroom or Sparrows Wing
- Move lighting box for better audience view
- Expand workshop space
- Improve kitchen and bar efficiency
- Boost Sparrows Wing use
- Waterproof lower level for heritage protection
- Upgrade wardrobe ventilation and toilets
- Add shelving in props room/storage
- Improve stage lighting
- Install accessibility ramps/handrails
- Increase Greenroom seating; keep non-smoking
- Refresh signage and exterior
- Double membership, consider debentures
Celebrating Achievements
And do you know what? We have already ticked off so many items from those lists, and we could not be prouder of how the theatre is shaping up. Just imagine what else we could do, together:
Curtains now replace vertical blinds in the auditorium. The dressing room features fresh paint, a kitchen, carpet, and heat pumps. The Greenroom is warmer thanks to its own heat pump and offers more space for gatherings. Auditorium lighting has been upgraded, and the props room has been revamped. Safety improvements include handrails and safer access around kitchen access. Outside, the building has been painted, the roof repaired, and new signage installed with our tragedy/comedy masks visible from Cameron Road.
Looking Ahead
Now, fifteen years on since those early dreams, we are ready to turn vision into reality—embarking on a two-stage upgrade. First, we will welcome everyone through the Sparrow Wing with an improved Greenroom and bar. Then, we will tackle earthquake strengthening and create a more accessible, modern auditorium for generations to come. As we step into this new chapter, we also celebrate our 90th anniversary as a society and over 70 years of calling 16th Avenue our home—a true testament to our shared history and commitment.
We need your help.
The journey ahead is ambitious and exciting—and it is one we simply cannot complete without passionate supporters like you. The kind of fundraising we need now goes beyond a sausage sizzle or cake stall; it is a major campaign that will shape the future of our theatre for years to come.
If you love this place as much as we do, consider joining our Funding Committee.
We are seeking committed members who
- believe in the power of theatre and the strength of community,
- can help rally resources,
- spread the word,
- and make real change possible.
Together, we can create a theatre that is safe, welcoming, and inspiring for everyone—onstage, backstage, and in the audience. Be part of something special. Let us continue this journey, side by side, and ensure that the magic of theatre thrives in our town for many more years to come!
Our first meeting will be in the Green Room Monday 30 March at 7pm
- Please RSVP to the president@16avetheatre.co.nz
