Discover the creative heart of the city!
Come and explore Te Whare Tapere – Christchurch’s Performing Arts Precinct at our special Open Day on Sunday 25 October 2026.
For one day, the precinct comes alive with free performances, activities, workshops, behind-the-scenes experiences and more, with The Court Theatre, Isaac Theatre Royal, The Piano and Tūranga opening their doors and welcoming the community to discover what happens inside these creative spaces.
Enjoy live performances from the Big Band Festival, get involved in activities for all ages, explore the venues and meet some of the people who make Ōtautahi’s performing arts scene so vibrant.
Whether you’re a lifelong theatre-lover, a budding performer, a music fan, a curious first-timer or looking for something fun to do with the whānau, there’s something to discover.
Come along, explore the precinct and experience the creative energy of Te Whare Tapere.
SCHEDULE (Subject to change)
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The Piano
10am–12.30pm Try an Instrument with Christchurch School of Music
10.30am Garden City Big Band Performance
12.00pm Dunedin City Jazz Orchestra
1.00pm Christchurch Youth Jazz Orchestra
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Isaac Theatre Royal
10am Guided Tour
10.30am Guided Tour
11.00am Jolt Block Party – Outside Main Entrance & Guided Tour
11.30am Jolt Block Party – Outside Main Entrance & Guided Tour
12.15pm Whanganui Jazz Orchestra
1.00pm Guided Tour
1.30pm Guided Tour
Please note: Tours leave on the hour from 10am, 10:30am, 11am, 11:30am, 1pm and 1.30pm
No booking required. Limited to 18 people per tour.
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The Court Theatre
10.30am Stage Combat Demo/Workshop – On The Green
11.00am Nelson Jazz Club Big Band – Gough Family Foyer
12.00pm Capital City Jazz Band – Gough Family Foyer
12.30pm Stage Combat Demo/Workshop – On The Green
1.00pm Dunedin City Jazz Orchestra – Gough Family Foyer
Roaming Performances by the Jester Youth Company (Various Times and Locations)
Open Workshop by The Court Youth Company – Rātā Foundation Studio (Various Times)
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Tūranga
11.00am UC Jazz Society
11.30am Shirley Boys High School
1.00pm Rangi Ruru Jazz Band
2.00pm TPWOW (Hagley)
