7 November 2008

Labour welcomes funding for Q Theatre

Prime Minister Helen Clark and Associate Arts, Culture and Heritage Minister Judith Tizard today welcomed the grant of up to $6 million for Auckland’s Q Theatre.

Helen Clark said that the grant, from the Lottery Significant Projects Fund, will contribute to building the new $21 million theatre in central Auckland.

“This is great news for the Q Theatre and for Auckland’s arts community. It will include a flexible main auditorium with seating for 350 to 460 people, as well as studio space with seating for 100.

“This new venue will be fantastic for New Zealand theatre and will also make it easier to attract international productions. Q Theatre will become a gateway venue for productions touring New Zealand,” Helen Clark said.

“While Auckland City Council has committed $9.2 million, and fundraising efforts brought in another $4.45 million, the project could not have proceeded without the grant from lotteries,” Helen Clark said.

Associate Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage and Auckland Central MP Judith Tizard said the future of the performing arts in New Zealand and in Auckland hinges on Auckland's ability to provide high quality adequate theatre facilities

“Q Theatre will undoubtedly be a high quality venue. The new theatre will also have strong links to the country’s civic and artistic life.

“It will provide a gathering place, act as a hub for the performing arts in Auckland, and cater for a wide range of art forms and audiences.

“I have been a strong supporter of the project so to see the final piece of the funding jigsaw fall into place is wonderful,” Judith Tizard said.

ENDS

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