ABOUT US
Our aim is to continue to ensure the arts remain accessible in Whangarei and the community needs are met with a focus towards a dedicated performance space.
The Forum North Trust is a group of passionate civic-minded people committed to provide Whangārei a Community Performing Arts and Events Centre at Forum North including a new large lyric theatre, inclusive programming, educational opportunities and productions and events of the highest standard.
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We know we are stronger together as a collective voice and single community. Let's work together to achieve the goals of the community.
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We strongly advocate the development of a new lyric theatre in Whangārei, as part of the Forum North Entertainment Centre. We believe that such a theatre will not only enhance the cultural and social well-being of our community but also provide economic and environmental benefits.
- Whangārei and Northland require a larger theatre - we are currently the only region of our size without one in New Zealand. The existing theatres at Forum North are outdated, inadequate, and inaccessible for many performers and audiences. A new theatre with a capacity of at least 700 seats will enable us to host a wider range of local, national, and international shows, as well as cater for larger and more diverse audiences.
- A significant lyric theatre is a long-term intergenerational asset. It will serve current and future generations of Whangārei and Northland residents, as well as attract visitors and tourists to our region. It will also create opportunities for education, employment, and engagement in the arts and culture sector, which is vital for the well-being and development of our community. There has been a longstanding recognition and aspiration for a new theatre in Whangārei, but also a lack of action and commitment to make it happen. It is time to stop postponing and delaying this project and instead seize the opportunity and momentum that we have now to turn this vision into reality.
- It has been 40 years since we have had a 700+ seat venue. The last time Whangārei had a theatre with more than 700 seats was in 1981, when the Town Hall was demolished. Since then, our population and demand for arts and culture have grown significantly, but our facilities have not kept up. We deserve a modern and fit-for- purpose theatre that meets the needs and expectations of Northland.
- We have already secured $2.5 million from private donors and trusts, and we have a realistic and achievable plan to raise more funds from various sources. We are offering to share the cost with Whangārei District Council.
- Building of a new theatre will conserve and develop the strategic community asset which is Forum North. Forum North is a valuable and iconic complex that houses a range of cultural, civic, and recreational facilities. However, it is also aging and in need of maintenance and development. A new theatre will not only complement and enhance the existing facilities but also stimulate and catalyze the regeneration and revitalization of the whole complex and the surrounding area.
- A new theatre will provide a venue for social connection, cultural expression, economic activity, and environmental sustainability. It will also improve the quality of life and the sense of pride and identity of our community.
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