Christchurch City Mayor Phil Mauger: Holding court in style

An exciting invitation landed in my inbox last month.

The Court Theatre officially opens its doors to the public on 3 May, so I’d better dust my tux off.

A Christchurch institution, the theatre is treasured by so many residents. Its home in the Arts Centre was badly damaged in the 2011 earthquake, and it’s been based out in Addington ever since.

We’ve been working to rebuild the theatre since 2013, when the Performing Arts Precinct was first established. It’s been satisfying to watch the site on Gloucester St slowly transform. With Tūranga, Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre, and other cultural attractions nearby, the precinct has developed into an exciting central city corner.

I marvel at how far this city has come in the 14 years since the quakes. If you’re keen to get an early look, public tours will take place at the theatre on Sunday 4 May. Go to courttheatre.org.nz.