At The Court Theatre, we believe in the transformative power of live performance. As Ōtautahi Christchurch and Waitaha Canterbury’s premier destination for theatre, we bring bold, inclusive storytelling to life in a state-of-the-art venue designed to foster creativity and connection.
Here, every performance is an invitation to connect—whether it’s your first time in the theatre or a return to a beloved tradition. We strive to make The Court Theatre a welcoming home for all.
Who We Are
Proudly New Zealand’s largest theatre company
Based in Ōtautahi Christchurch, The Court Theatre is home to a dynamic community of permanent staff and hundreds of artists and artisans. Together we produce 15–20 shows each year, crafted right here on-site. More than 100,000 people join us annually for works that make them laugh, cry, and think long after the curtain falls.
What We Do
From world premieres to beloved classics, and daring new voices to joyful family shows, The Court Theatre has something for everyone.
Education and learning are at the heart of what we do, providing high-quality arts training across every stage of the theatre-making journey.
Beyond the stage, we open our hearts and spaces through creative engagement and events that bring people closer—whether learning, celebrating, or simply enjoying being together.
Whether you’re swept away by a powerful drama, singing along to a musical, or caught up in the playful chaos of The Court Jesters, you’ll find warmth, welcome, and inspiration at The Court Theatre.
Our Story
From a stone chamber in 1971 to our new state-of-the-art home, The Court Theatre has always been driven by the belief that Ōtautahi Christchurch deserves a thriving professional theatre. Our journey has been one of resilience, creativity, and community spirit.