Theatre location realises a dream
The devil is in the detail now the new location for a venue to replace Founders Theatre has been unveiled.
One week on since the Hamilton Hotel was selected out of 25 possible theatre sites, residents have either loved or lobbied against the idea.
But Hamilton deputy mayor Martin Gallagher said people need to look at the glass half-full, rather than half-empty.
‘‘It will reinforce that part of the city. It is an excellent complement to the museum and the Meteor Theatre, and the restaurants and bars. Also, it realises a dream to have a theatre that overlooks the river.’’
It has the potential to be an iconic venue like the Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratfordupon-Avon, he said.
‘‘The concept is exciting. The huge challenge will be the detail.’’
Founders Theatre was built in 1962 and closed its doors in 2016 due to health and safety concerns.
The project to find a new theatre location is a partnership between philanthropic organisation Momentum Waikato and the Hamilton City Council.
Going by the temporary moniker Waikato Regional Theatre, the venue is located on the corner of Sapper MooreJones Pl and Victoria St.
Gallagher said council will be seeking regional funding.
‘‘It is truly a community project, and council is a strong partner,’’ he said. ‘‘Aren’t we lucky to have philanthropic people in this city to help council to realise a dream?’’
Since the announcement, Gallagher said he has had positive feedback. The only qualms brought to his attention were regarding parking and general security.
‘‘Evidence suggests there is (enough parking). Personally, I think we will need to go into micro detail to make sure we have adequate parking to the theatre. There is also the issue of safety. People need to feel secure and safe at night,’’ he said.
However, the deputy mayor and chair of Hamilton’s River Plan Taskforce has no fears about the future of the theatre.
‘‘It’s crucial that we take the wider view. We’ve got to relate it to the redevelopment of the central city. As deputy mayor I’m very excited that the theatre will become the jewel in the crown of the River Plan. People’s perspective of Hamilton will change. People will come to work, live and play in Hamilton. They will see it is a vital, vibrant city.’’
The next bundle of theatre information, including a business case, will go to Hamilton City councillors on August 24.