Theatre Royal Gala Opening Festival

In the 1800s Nelsonians packed the Theatre Royal to see acrobats, theatre and opera – and now the historic theatre is all set to go again, this time with an opening concert by Fat Freddy’s Drop.

The theatre has seen times change and suffered mixed fortunes, finally closing almost ten years ago. Now, after a massive refurbishment of the auditorium and rebuild of the backstage and balcony, the Theatre Royal has a Gala Opening Festival. A fortnight of performance treats is planned, featuring the interactive theatre show Apollo 13 Mission Control from Wellington (and fresh from Sydney), a Handbag Dance Party from local DJ and music writer Grant Smithies, late night cabaret with the Circus of Horrors, hot young Irish band Beoga who have been wowing audiences at major festivals in Europe and the USA, and the acclaimed autobiographical dance work Tama Ma from Taiaroa Royal and Taane Mete.

Even in June Nelson strives to turn on sunny days (after frosty mornings), the waters of Tasman Bay are calm for kayaking, the shopping is good, the seafood is fresh and goes very nicely with the local Rieslings. What’s not to like?

Psst…has the Theatre Royal ghost survived the builders? Sit in row M if you dare, and see if a chill descends…