The theatre opened in May 2025 through a partnership between Christchurch City Council and The Court Theatre.
The Court Theatre, on the corner of Colombo and Gloucester streets, offers a theatre experience unlike any other in New Zealand.
The building, which comprises two theatres and other spaces, was officially opened in May 2025. It was designed by Athfield Architects and UK-based architects Haworth Tompkins. Hawkins led the construction.
The 377-seat Stewart Family Theatre has three levels of seating around the stage. The seating can be removed, giving flexibility to adjust the stage position for different types of performances. A smaller auditorium has 120 to 150 seats and is used for performances such as children’s theatre and improvised comedy.
Other spaces are used for wardrobe, costume and props construction and an education studio. There are also rehearsal and administration spaces, and a workshop for set construction.
A front-of-house bar and café, including the Court’s renowned pizza oven, ensures patrons are well-catered for.
Car parking is on-street or in one of the car parking buildings located in the central city, within a few minutes’ walk. Off-street parking is also available close by on Armagh Street. The Council is working with the owners of these sites to improve their quality.