The community is being invited to discover little-known secrets of the Civic Theatre in Invercargill during Heritage Month in March.

Constructed in 1906, the Civic Theatre is a Category 1-listed heritage building, renowned for its exceptional quality and historical significance.

Invercargill City Council Venues Manager Jason Wade said visitors were invited to take part in a guided tour of the theatre to celebrate Heritage Month.

“The Civic Theatre really is an Edwardian gem, famed for both its architectural beauty and the role it has played in our city and wider region’s cultural heritage,” he said.

“It is such an integral building in Invercargill’s streetscape, and the Civic really is the epicentre of culture within the city. However, as is often the case with buildings like this, the majority of the community are largely limited in the way they can explore and interact with the theatre. Our guided tours will give people the chance to get a look behind-the-scenes of the theatre, and explore its beauty in an entirely new way.

“Some say the Civic Theatre even boasts a resident ghost – so this just might be your chance to get up-close with its secrets.”

The tours, being held at various times on March 2, would give visitors the chance to gain an insight into the intricate workings of events staged at the Civic Theatre, Wade said.

“The tours will be an in-depth exploration of every nook and cranny of the theatre, from our function spaces through to the dressing rooms and backstage areas, which have played host to luminaries such as Split Enz, Vera Lynn, and Billy Connolly throughout the years,” he said.

“Guests will hear little-known tidbits they otherwise may not be privy to during the tours. While it’s a shame the walls can’t talk, our informative guides have plenty of stories to tell.”

As well as a series of guided tours, the Civic Theatre would offer visitors the chance to learn more about the building’s history thanks to its interactive Athenaeum display during Heritage Month, Wade said.

Full of the theatre’s historical artefacts, photographs, archival materials and equipment, the display would be a compelling and educational experience, he said.

“The Civic Theatre has played such a vital role in our community’s history, so to be able to be part of Heritage Month is an exciting opportunity. We are really looking forward to sharing more about this beautiful building’s past with the community.”

 

Civic Theatre Heritage Month Guided Tours

Date: March 2

Time: 10am, 11.30am and 1pm

Cost: $15 per person

Spaces are strictly limited. Book here

 

Civic Theatre Athenaeum Display

Date: From March 1 – March 31

Time: During the theatre’s opening hours

Cost: Free entry