A 'hard hat' concert held for the construction team celebrated the completion of the $15.7M restoration and redevelopment of the 100 year old Civic Theatre in Invercargill.

Signal managed the design and construction of the theatre redevelopment project for the Invercargill City Council.

The Theatre reopened with a completely refurbished Front of House and Auditorium and a new Stage House incorporating a three storey Dressing Room block. The project was completed in just 16 months.

An important focus of the redevelopment was the theatre's heritage. Consideration was given to every aspect of the design to ensure that the refurbishment process remained authentic to the heritage and era of the building. The New Zealand Historic Places Trust was consulted throughout the planning, design and construction phases.

In the Front of House an impressive new entrance and foyer was created along with a new ticketing counter, bar and confectionary facilities for all theatre related services. Three separate function spaces have been created for corporate and sponsored events.

In the Auditorium, comfort and enjoyment of the performance takes priority, including comfortable new seating with wider row spacing. A new heating and ventilation system has also been installed and sight lines to the stage have been maximised through the removal of internal columns.

The Stage House is completely new with the old brick work building replaced by a 24 metre high pre-cast concrete panel structure. The new counterweight flying system replaces the old hand-rigged system.

In the basement the orchestra pit was extended and a hydraulically driven screw lift connects the basement to the stage level. The new three level Dressing Room block has been built to house up to 74 performers and includes toilets, showers, dressing rooms, wardrobe and rehearsal areas and offices.

Thanks to the tireless work of many, Invercargill now has a "state of the art" theatre that will ensure future generations are entertained for the next 100 years.