New CBD theatre on drawing board

Rotorua theatre groups are discussing sharing a new theatre near the central city .

Rotorua theatre lovers could enjoy performances in a new purpose-built venue, but plans to make it a reality are a long way from complete.

Talks between the Rotorua Musical Theatre and Rotorua Little Theatre to share a new 150-seat theatre, which could be built next to The Arts Village on Hinemaru St, are gaining traction.

Rotorua district councillor and Creative Communities portfolio leader Glenys Searancke said neither organisation wanted to lose its identity, but a shared venue was a possibility.

"Both groups are facing ongoing rising costs and each have issues with their current locations," she said.

The Rotorua Little Theatre is based next to Pak 'n Save supermarket and needs renovation, while the Musical Theatre is based on Riri St in an industrial area and faces issues with parking and an ageing building. We have got a working party together to look at possibilities, it's not an amalgamation, but they are working on a joint venture.

"It's been exciting getting together talking about how we can make this work," she said.

Mrs Searancke said the perfect location would be near the central city, ideally on land next to The Arts Village.

"This is all tentative at the moment, but on the whole there is enthusiasm for the project."

Mrs Searancke said the Rotorua Energy Charitable Trust had expressed interest in helping fund the project.

Rotorua Musical Theatre president Natasha Benfell said talks had not progressed too far as the location was key to any future move. "But it does make sense, while we'd stay as individuals, we would be able to share facilities.

"We have to make sure we are succession planning for the future and our youth. I think we could do better for Rotorua."

Mrs Benfell said the location next to The Arts Village would be ideal and hoped the council would make the land available.

Rotorua Little Theatre president Grant Webb said the theatre was "open-minded to almost anything, within reason".

"We've spent two years trying to do this and have nothing concrete yet, especially a location.

"The whole thing is pivotal on the council to supply some land, but it would be silly not to consider all the options.

"It would be a shame to lose the old building. Some want to renovate it as we are quite attached to it and its location.

"We are all on the same page, we have the same requirements," Mr Webb said.

Rotorua Energy Charitable Trust chairman Grahame Hall said it was timely both groups were looking at new possibilities.

"As a trust we have made it clear we will not throw good money after bad and are not interested in renovating old buildings.

"They are two very important groups in our community.

"The arts are the lifeblood of a city and it's very important they continue on."

Mr Hall said the trust had supported both organisations by paying for outside consultation and expert reports and felt the concept of a new theatre should be considered.

"It can be done, they need to get down to more detail, and this is where the hard work starts.

"Equally important is what they can afford.

"We all have dreams, but the reality is we need to be realistic about what they can and can't afford.

"Continuing to spend money on old buildings is not the wisest way to spend money.

"But, this is a coalition of the willing, and that's a good thing," Mr Hall said.