I can’t believe it’s our final Court Cues for the year! Where did the time go? Did we get through everything on our lists? Now I know why we live in a world of A4 paper - imagine what we would have to get done if there was never a margin in sight!
The Court Theatre is a resilient and resourceful organisation, whose people have an amazing “can do” attitude. In the covid world, a theatre is the first to close and the last to open - but not The Court. Here we are almost half way through Jersey Boys! Over 7,500 people have been to see it and the sales for the January shows are filling up fast. We took a punt that we could open the show - māiatanga (courageous) in action, and thanks to your support - and a good deal of encouragement from the Supporters Committee - here we are! It’s a team effort - wow, what a team!
It is such a privilege being the Chief Executive of The Court Theatre. One of the great joys I have is working with the Supporters Committee. The passion and commitment of these fine group of people, (not to mention the advice, hints, bribes and laughter - I said not to mention them) makes even the challenging days enjoyable.
What has been particularly enjoyable has been working to turn our castle in the air into a reality. (Have you ever noticed there is a song title from the '60s through '80s that fits every occasion?) Throughout the last 9 years we dreamt of a new home in the city but so much time, so many obstacles, and so much effort, and sometimes all we had to go on was our commitment to never giving up. Our team is again working tirelessly to ensure the architects get it right for us - a big thank you to Ross Gumbley, our project manager Tom Clisby, and our Trust Board Chair Steven van der Pol for their expertise.
We have now released the drawings and isn’t the new Court stunning!
In three years time, we will be having a drink with you in the foyer as you are waiting for the bing bongs to announce the house is open - there will be no bad seats in the house - where will you sit tonight?
A big thank you to all of The Court team, our wider whānau, our partners and funders for making even the most challenging year doable and worthwhile. We are proud to be part of this community and play our part for you all.
We wish you happy and safe holidays. Meri Kirihimete.
Barbara