Grant makes theatre a reality

Trust Waikato has approved a grant towards the development of the new Waikato Regional Theatre.

The $15 million contribution will hopefully encourage other funders, businesses and individuals to add their financial support towards the development, trust chair Niwa Nuri said.

‘‘The trust is pleased to be supporting the Waikato Regional Theatre which will be at the cutting-edge of many new and exciting developments. We are supporting this project at an early stage as the benefits will be so wide-ranging and positive for our communities. The new theatre will add to the cultural, economic and creative opportunities across the region for many years to come,’’ Nuri said.

After a thorough process of site selection, the Hamilton Hotel in the CBD has been recommended as the location for the Waikato Regional Theatre.

This privately-owned site on Victoria St is bordered by Embassy Park and Sapper MooreJones Place and runs down to Waikato River.

The proposed plans include an 1100-seat theatre, lobby, multi-use areas and functional rooms for performers and technicians.

Chair of Momentum Waikato Leonard Gardner said they were grateful for Trust Waikato’s funding.

‘‘It means the project is a step closer to becoming reality.’’