Prime Minister visits Theatre site
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern visited the Waikato Regional Theatre site today, to see for herself the progress made since she turned the first sod a year ago and to meet and congratulate the construction team.
She was greeted by Momentum Waikato CEO Kelvyn Eglinton and Hamilton Mayor Paula Southgate and briefed on what she was seeing by Foster Group Commercial Manager Tim Strawbridge.
After viewing the large excavation, the group stepped next door to the Fosters Site Office to view plans and then talk to the media.
“It was great to give the Prime Minister an update on the Theatre in person,” says Kelvyn.
“We really appreciate Jacinda’s personal interest and, indeed, the support we’ve received from across the political spectrum for this transformational project for the Hamilton CBD.”
Cellar surprise: Theatre build unexpectedly uncovers long-lost hospitality history
Excavations for the soon-to-be-built Waikato Regional Theatre in Hamilton’s main street have revealed a surprise, in the form of a long-buried beer cellar.
Hidden under the site of the old Hamilton Hotel, which famously burnt to the ground in 1922, the discovery offers a fascinating insight into the early days of the city’s hospitality industry.
However, it could be said to have been in an extremely inhospitable state when it was unearthed by the team building the new theatre – filled with dirt, old bricks and other debris from the fire.
But, amongst the trash, some treasure has been found.
Student designs Theatre hospitality concept
Wintec design student Delwyn Clayton-Greene has embraced the community spirit of the Waikato Regional Theatre project by choosing it as the venue for a champagne bar concept in an assignment.
With an open brief for the final ‘Capstone Project’ of her three-year Bachelor of Design majoring in Spatial Design, Delwyn wanted to explore hospitality design as it was opportunity to imagine a space that makes people feel special and welcomed.
“My initial idea was a champagne bar in a disused old building but I was inspired to find out more about the Waikato Regional Theatre when I saw the beautiful facade of the Hamilton Hotel that’s been revealed on Victoria St,” says Delwyn.
Give a Seat for Christmas!
Looking for that special gift for someone who loves live performance and the cultural life of the Waikato?
You can 'Take a Seat' in the new Waikato Regional Theatre as a Christmas gift for friends and family!
Donate $1500 and you get to put their name on a seat in the new Theatre’s auditorium.
Go to ‘Take A Seat’ to donate and/or find out more - let us know it’s a gift and you’ll get a card and a treat to give on the day.
Waikato Regional Theatre in the media
Waikato Regional Theatre project now in excavation stage - Waikato Herald
Theatre build unexpectedly uncovers long-lost hospitality history - Waikato Times