Theatre Royal

Please Note: The Theatre Royal is currently closed, as major refurbishment and upgrades are undertaken.  Timaru’s Theatre Royal is on the NZ Heritage List/Rārangi Kōrero as a Category 2 Historical place.  Read Minister for Arts Culture and Heritage Jacinda Ardern’s funding announcement Here

Completion is expected in the second half of 2023. 

The location, size and style of the venue ensure its popularity with many touring shows.  It is an important focal point for the arts and entertainment, making a significant contribution to the lifestyle of the district.  This substantial Victorian theatre has been on the Stafford Street, Timaru site since 1877.  A 1993 refurbishment included creation of a welcoming spacious entrance foyer filled with light, featuring two marble staircases leading to an upper floor reception area, and spectacular stained glass window depicting the Timaru District Council’s coat of arms.

Facilities

(NB: The following information is PRE planned refurbishment) Auditorium Seating (capacity 1023), stage, foyer (capacity 100), bar, kitchen, chairs/trestles, lighting, theatre technician and safety officer. Front theatre entry has ramps for wheel chair entry/exit and access to stalls (downstairs of auditorium) does not have any stairs. There are dedicated wheel chair positions on the left hand center of the auditorium that can only be reserved for wheel chair use.

Hire

Booking details and fees will be updated as refurbishment timelines are established.  Fees include rent, power / heating, theatre technician, house management / safety officer, theatre’s lighting equipment, piano and cleaning.

We look forward to this wonderful community facility reopening.