History

The Royal Whanganui Opera House opened in February 1900, however by 1988 it was tired, neglected and no longer served the needs of a modern audience. 

 

Formation of the Friends of the Opera House

A public meeting was called and it was clear that there was a group of people who valued the building for its historic significance. Early in 1989 a group of 10 people with theatrical and community interests at heart formed a “Friends of The Opera House” steering committee, the aim being to “preserve the historic building as a full working theatre for the use and enjoyment of the community”. Their first event, a gala variety concert on 4 June 1989 was organised and a newspaper editorial encouraged the public to support the Sunday concert, acknowledging that in a city that had recently lost 2 theatres and many other old buildings, “the preservation of the only Victorian-style theatre in the country was essential” and that “initial enthusiasm was one thing, sustained commitment was another”.

 

Positive impact on the community

Public interest was maintained and a formal committee was formed in 1990. 

With support from the community, businesses and the Historic Places Trust, the Friends of the Opera House flourished and the voluntary labour can be measured in thousands of hours. A huge volume of restoration work and other projects have been achieved which has ensured that audiences have had the opportunity to enjoy various performers and entertainers over the years.

 

Assistance Volunteers provide

The Friends provide front-of-house assistance (doormen, sweet stall and bar staff, ice cream sellers), as well as back stage crew.

A working bee is held once a week (or as required). For around two hours on a Tuesday evening the building rings with the sound of hammers, the slap of paint brushes and chatter ensuring that the house is in order and that the show can go on!

 

Volunteers are always needed!

At the Royal Whanganui Opera House we are always in need of more volunteers for a variety of roles - ushers, sweetstall, bar, doormen, icecream sellers and back stage crew!

Come along and learn about what goes on behind the scenes of a live theatre!

 

Join now!

If you are keen to put your name forward to volunteer at this beautiful historic theatre, please contact the Friends President - Margaret Johnson on 06 344 8984 in the evenings, or by email bejae9@gmail.com.

Alternatively, call into the Box Office: Monday - Friday | 10am - 1.30pm.