Theatre Royal

Nelson’s historic Theatre Royal is one of the oldest wooden theatres in New Zealand. Listed by the Historic Places Trust, the building is nearly 130 years old. It remains very largely in its original condition.

Before the theatre closed in 2005, some 22,000 visitors a year enjoyed the theatrical and dance performances staged there. National and international musicians and touring groups as well as local theatre, school events and community groups used the venue on a regular basis. The theatre also hosted the Nelson Arts Festival, ballet and musical theatre, plays and repertory performances.

The Theatre Royal was commissioned by The Loyal Howard and Loyal Nelson Oddfellow Lodges and opened on 18 July 1878. It is constructed out of native timber with a corrugated iron roof. The theatre is a surviving remnant of 19th century architecture, performing its original function. Most buildings of this era, particularly in Nelson, no longer exist.

Grand Opening Festival starts 31 May 2010

Find out more about the Theatre Royal Grand Opening Festival

‘Sponsor A Seat’ at the Theatre Royal

The Nelson Historic Theatre Trust is offering the people of Nelson an opportunity to ensure the final fit-out of the theatre is completed to a high standard. You're invited  to ‘Sponsor a Seat’, which will secure your support and presence now and in the future.

Each ‘Sponsor a Seat’ donation will offer:

  • Your name, company or organisation engraved on a plaque attached to the back of the seat
  • Your name, company or organisation listed on the Honours Board in the Foyer
  • Preferential show bookings
  • An invite to an Opening function
  • Advance information on shows as they are announced.

Find out more about sponsoring a seat

For more information please contact

Louise Allan
544 2750
Email Louise Allan about the Theatre Royal 'sponsor a seat'

Grant bestowed

November 2007

The $2.9m government grant bestowed on the Theatre Royal by Prime Minister Helen Clarke has been welcomed by the Nelson City Council. Council also had $809,000 in its 2008/09 budget for the refurbishment project.