When the call went out in 2018 for generous locals to get behind the new Waikato Regional Theatre, Nancy Caiger decided she was in “boots and all”.
The determined everyday philanthropist has donated time and money to a variety of causes over the years, including the arts, health services, food and budgeting support and women’s giving.
Now, as the Theatre starts to rise up out of the riverbank in the Hamilton CBD, Nancy has completed the commitment she made five years ago to make a series of donations adding up to a significant contribution towards this exciting new performing arts centre.
Nancy Caiger at the Waikato Regional Theatre site last year.
“Art is important, both visual and performance, it is critical to the health of our society,” says Nancy.
“I wouldn’t know how to live in a world without art, it is good for wellbeing, for the soul, for recreation.
“I can’t sing, act or dance, so I wanted to support those who give me those pleasures by giving them a world-class venue to perform in!”
Nancy says the new Theatre will be a drawcard for the city and region, as it will attract a variety of shows catering for every taste and culture.
“Not everyone likes opera, but for an opera lover like me, the new Theatre will be heaven, and that will be true for anyone who loves any kind of performance, it will be such a flexible space.
“There are many lovers of theatre, music and dance in the Waikato, and currently we have to go to Auckland for the big shows - why can’t the big shows come to us?”
Nancy says a night at the Theatre is a truly interactive experience.
“You meet people, get a programme and an ice cream, are part of a crowd having a shared cultural experience, that laughs and cries together, and then maybe you go for a meal or a drink.
“I think the foyer is just as important as the auditorium, and the view of the Waikato River from the new Theatre’s foyer will be fantastic, it will really add to the experience of going to a show.”
The Waikato Regional Theatre, a project led by Momentum Waikato, will also accelerate the development of local export-quality shows of all kinds.
“New and experimental stuff can be tried out at The Meteor, and then aspire to fill the new Theatre.
“Really, The Meteor is so important, it is my spiritual home, which is why I helped when they were fundraising to strengthen the building. Live performance has given me a lot of joy, so I just want to give back, so that it can keep happening here.
“Hamilton is a good place for a lot of people, families and businesses to thrive in, and supporting the new Waikato Regional Theatre is a way for anyone to give back to our community and economy.
“I would encourage everyone in the Waikato to donate to the Theatre. You can make a small donation, or ‘Take a Seat’, and firms can join the Business Collective Support scheme for the recognition that brings, every bit counts” says Nancy.
To support the Waikato Regional Theatre as Nancy suggests, visit sharethestage.co.nz/#donate or contact info@momentumwaikato.nz.