6 | Momentum Waikato: Foster Construction - Waikato Regional Theatre T T Karen Phelps New theatre a cultural landmark Foster Construction, a local company, has undertaken the construction of the WRT under a fixed-price contract. REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT tel 07 8299465 Wilco is proud to supply Momentum Waikato with precast concrete components and has recently opened a branch in Horotiu, Hamilton, to continue our service of the Waikato and Bay of Plenty regions. Building upon a 60-year history at the company’s Papakura plant, our ongoing quality assurance system and commitment to quality principles and procedures provides for total customer satisfaction: high quality precast components and a smoother, faster construction process. Suppliers of precast panels for the Foster Construction project WILCO PRECAST LTD, 66 BOUNDARY ROAD, PAPAKURA TEL (09) 295 1060 WILCOWAIKATO, 52 EVOLUTION DRIVE, HOROTIU, TEL 07 829 9465 www.wilcoprecast.co.nz “We aim to maintain a community focus while ensuring the theatre’s success as a cultural and commercial enterprise.” The construction of the Waikato Regional Theatre (WRT) is well underway, and the project is poised to transform Hamilton CBD and breathe new life into the city’s arts scene. With a collaborative approach that brings together the public sector, business support and community involvement, the WRT is set to become a cultural landmark in the region, says communications and marketing manager at Momentum Waikato Mark Servian. Since the construction began in October 2021 the earthworks and foundations have been completed and the project is now emerging from the ground. The Waikato Regional Property Trust, which will own the theatre’s operating company, responsible for managing the venue, directing artistic programs and promoting events, has appointed Deborah Nudds and Chris Williams to sit alongside the Board of Trustees. The Trust is chaired by Ross Hargood. Deborah, the manager of The Meteor theatre in Hamilton, and Chris, the manager of King Street Advertising and a producer of musicals, bring valuable experience to the project, says Mark. Gus Sharp, the general manager of the theatre, was appointed to his position in January and is currently focused on preparing the venue to open its doors to patrons and artists. “While the physical construction is important it’s equally crucial to establish effective operational strategies for ticket sales, food and drinks, and financial sustainability. “We aim to maintain a community focus while ensuring the theatre’s success as a cultural and commercial enterprise,” he says. Instead of solely commissioning shows, the WRT follows a ‘hall for hire’ model, allowing various individuals and organisations to showcase their productions. This inclusive approach provides opportunities for both established touring companies and emerging local groups to utilise the theatre space, says Gus. Despite significant progress, the project is still in need of further fundraising, with approximately $2.5-3 million left to secure, with the goal to open the theatre free of debt. Momentum Waikato has already received support from major sponsors and implemented successful campaigns such as the ‘Take a Seat’ initiative. Through this campaign individuals, families, clubs and businesses can donate $1,500 and have a name engraved on a seat in the theatre when it opens and it has resonated with the community, says Mark. Momentum Waikato has also introduced the Business Collective Support campaign, allowing businesses to contribute $10,000 or more, with appropriate recognition for their support. Naming rights for the theatre and its components are still available, presenting an opportunity for sponsors to make a lasting impact on the cultural landscape of the region, says Mark. Foster Construction, a local company, has undertaken the construction of the WRT under a fixed-price contract. This collaboration reflects the collective approach and commitment to local involvement, ensuring that the economic benefits of the project remain within the community, says Gus. T T to page 8 “The scale of the project is truly remarkable, made possible through the dedication of the people involved, including volunteers, local contractors and supporters like Foster Construction,” he says. Gus envisions the theatre as a catalyst for attracting top-quality shows and events to Hamilton while providing a platform for local professionals to hone their skills. The theatre’s flexible space is designed to cater to a wide range of performances, from drama and concerts to ballet and opera.
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