Sign In / Register
A complete upgrade of the seating at Centrestage Theatre will give patrons a new level of comfort heading into 2025.
The theatre now boasts brand-new seating for 201 people, ahead of its upcoming season of La Cage aux Folles, which opens on Saturday, March 8.
It is a dream come true for theatre managers Stephanie and Ross McKellar and a continuation of a refurbishment plan that has already seen public areas such as the lobby repainted and carpeted, along with upgraded bathrooms.
“Unfortunately, we inherited seating from the Bruce Mason Theatre when it upgraded, and it proved to be failing, Stephanie says. “I was determined to renew our seating, and it took a huge fundraising effort and commitment from the committee, but it was more than worth it.”
Centrestage Theatre has come a long way since the United Players Ōrewa first operated out of the Ōrewa Community Hall in 1956. The current theatre opened in 1990 and remains the only purpose-built theatre facility operating between Takapuna and Whangārei.
As well as running a subscription series of shows, the company and venue host a range of community and professional events, from school productions to professional performances.
“We aim to be a true community resource and hub,” Stephanie says. “People of all ages attend our events, whether it’s for our youth theatre productions and courses, school drama and dance performances, or daytime concerts. We have an incredible resource here, and we want it to be accessible to everyone in the community.”
This work wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of volunteers, many of whom have been with the theatre since its early days, and Stephanie hopes to keep attracting new volunteers to keep the theatre growing.
Centrestage also has an extensive costume department, managed by Robyn Simich. Over the years, the collection has grown, and the costumes are available for hire by other theatre companies, for events, and individuals. As the team prepares for La Cage aux Folles, a group of passionate volunteers meets regularly in the rehearsal hall, cutting sequins, and stitching feathers to create dazzling costumes for the production.
Like many arts organisations, the theatre struggled to regain its footing after Covid-19, especially as council funding levels have remained unchanged for decades.
“We wouldn’t have survived without amazing support from the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board and the community, and Pat Shanks, our treasurer, who has been with the theatre since the beginning is a magician with grant applications,” Stephanie says.
Looking ahead, Centrestage hopes to nurture a new generation of theatre lovers and ensure a sustainable future for the company and the community that supports it.
But maintaining a theatre at a professional standard takes resources. “This year we are asking the community for support and exploring new ways to ensure Centrestage continues to thrive,” Stephanie says. “Every contribution, big or small, helps us to continue to provide quality productions and a welcoming space for all. The arts bring so much to our lives, and we want to keep this resource strong for the Hibiscus Coast community.”
