In 1878 The Theatre Royal was built on market gardening land by a company of Oddfellows. Nelson was a town of just 6,000 yet 1,000 people crammed in on opening night. The facade originally had a veranda that extended out over the footpath, native timber was used throughout, with rough sawn planks where there is now corrugated iron. The Theatre Royal is the oldest wooden theatre still in use in the Southern Hemisphere. In 1904 the veranda was removed, raked seats were put in the gallery, a projection box was added with a side entry from the outside as the Theatre was swept into the era of the Silver Screen.

By the 30s the building was run down, and theatre was at a low ebb. In 1934 Nelson Repertory was formed, at first performing in the Majestic. In 1944 Repertory bought the Theatre Royal, saving it from conversion into a joinery shop!

The Theatre closed at the end of 2005 as such major maintenance was needed that it was no longer possible to get a licence to operate the building as a theatre.

The grandeur of the 1878 auditorium has been reinstated.  Original hand-painted wallpaper has been uncovered, new paper hand-made to match, and the colour palette returned to the original Victorian scheme. The seats are restored, and four period chandeliers sourced.  No stone has been left unturned in restoring the historic atmosphere.

How you can help

A donation to The Nelson Historic Theatre Trust will ensure our beautifully restored theatre remains just that – simply beautiful! Your donation will also support performances, programmes and the development of the theatre for our astonishing creative community and the next generation of artists! Your donation may also support many different elements - from education to writers groups, through to play readings and productions.

Donations of $100 or more are acknowledged on our website. Regardless of the amount, your support will truly make a difference!

For more information please contact the Theatre Manager on 03 548 3480 or via email manager@theatreroyalnelson.co.nz