Downstage Theatre

Downstage Theatre was a multi-story theatre building in Wellington that combined a stage and dining space with capacity for around 250 people. The venue featured flexible staging arrangements that allowed different types of performances and events to take place.

Founded in 1964 by Peter Bland, Tim Eliott, and Martyn Sanderson, the theatre started with performances in the upper floor of the Walkabout coffee bar. It eventually grew into a recognized cultural institution before closing in 2013.

The company published a quarterly magazine called Act and founded Playmarket, which became the main support organization for New Zealand playwrights. These two initiatives shaped how local theatre makers developed their work.

The theatre was located at the corner of Courtenay Place and Cambridge Terrace in Wellington, making it easy to find. The venue is no longer in operation, but the location remains significant in the city's theatre history.

The building received architectural awards for its innovative design that combined theatre with dining in a single integrated space. This approach of merging performances with restaurant service was ahead of its time and set it apart from traditional theatre venues.

Inception: 1973

GPS coordinates: -41.29370,174.78360

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:20