Curtain may rise on $64m upgrade for beloved theatre

Photo / Steven McNicholl

What was once the bastion of Auckland's creative scene may be restored to its past grandeur if plans for a $64 million upgrade to the St James Theatre are approved.

A recent report from the arts, culture and recreation committee endorsed the long-term aim of the council to secure the St James Theatre in public ownership.

Present owner Paul Doole first raised the idea of selling the Auckland landmark back in 2007 - shortly after a nearby fire closed the doors of the 82-year-old heritage building.

A government valuation in 2007 placed the worth of the property at $11 million. Since 2007, the arts, culture and recreation committee has worked closely with Mr Doole and the Saviours of St James interest group to assess costings for the restoration of the theatre.

The group has become increasingly vocal in recent months, backing a Herald campaign to save the St James Theatre.

The Herald began a campaign to save the derelict building following a bid from The Edge to secure government funding for a new national convention centre, to be located at Aotea Centre.

Under The Edge's plan, the St James would become the main venue for theatre, opera and ballet instead of the Aotea Centre, which would be incorporated into a new convention and exhibition centre.

The committee report acknowledged the potential for consultation between the council and the Saviours of St James.

"The group, which includes many prominent arts and theatre patrons, offers considerable private sector experience.

"It has the ability to provide practical advice on design, use and activities but more importantly to champion seeking the funding elements that will be required from both the public and private sector for the restoration works."

The report outlined three potential restoration schemes ranging in cost from $10 million for a basic do-up to a $64 million premier scheme modelled on the St James Theatre in Wellington.

The report indicates the committee's preference for the premier scheme.

"The premier scheme offers the best opportunity to enhance theatrical performances, resolving all back of stage requirements."

If the restoration were to go ahead the theatre would boast improved storage, back of house, stage and auditorium facilities - including a designated orchestra pit and removable stall seating.

Owner Mr Doole holds two resource consents to build a 39-level apartment tower next to the theatre, including provisions for strengthening and other compliance measures estimated to cost $5 million.

The work, which Mr Doole hopes to start within the next 12 months, includes a restoration of the St James tower, which was covered with a false facade in the 1950s, restoring the canopy on Queen St and reinstating one on the Lorne St side.

The consents required Mr Doole build a supporting wall to abut the new tower development.

The reports also stated that asbestos, fire hazards and earthquake risks must be dealt with. Mr Doole is not required to do anything else.

With conservative estimates for refurbishment and operational costs of the theatre running in excess of $50 million, the only option to return the theatre to its true glory would be public ownership, Mr Doole said.

"I'd like to see it restored like everyone else.

"The reality is I don't have $50 million to do up the theatre. I've agreed to a $5 million commitment and I see the council doing the balance of work and reopening."

But he said ratepayers would need to buy the building first.