Famous names join fight to restore historic theatre

Sir Ian McKellen. Photo / Supplied

English theatre luminaries Sir Ian McKellen and Dame Judi Dench are on a heavyweight list of artists and historians calling for the reopening of Auckland's St James Theatre.

The vintage theatre has been mothballed since a fire in 2007 and there are fears it could further deteriorate before plans can be prepared to restore it.

Former SPCA chief executive Bob Kerridge - one of those leading the fight to save it - said the Auckland City Council had committed to keeping the theatre, but it was in danger of "falling down through sheer neglect".

He has been gathering a group of New Zealand actors, historians and politicians, dubbed the "St James Saviours", who want to be involved in the restoration project in a bid to add momentum to council efforts.

Mr Kerridge said Sir Ian and Dame Judi had visited the theatre and were familiar with its place in Auckland history.

Acting dynasty the Redgrave family and New Zealand actor Sam Neil also supported keeping the St James, he said.

The developer-owner has resource consent to build a 39-storey apartment tower on the condition it seals off the theatre.

The theatre is protected by heritage laws but there is no legal obligation to restore it.