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Our History

Nelson Musical Theatre has a rich and storied history that dates back to the late 1800s. Originally known as the Nelson Amateur Operatic Society, we have been a vital part of the Nelson arts community for over 120 years

Early Beginnings

Our journey began in the 1890's when a group of passionate theatre enthusiasts formed the Nelson Amateur Operatic Society. Their goal was to bring the joy of musical theatre to Nelson, and they quickly became known for their high-quality productions. In those early days, performances were held in various venues around the city, with each production bringing together a diverse group of performers, musicians, and technicians. The dedication and hard work of these early pioneers laid the foundation for what would become a beloved institution in Nelson.

Building a Home

In 2007, the society found a permanent home near Founders Park. The building was donated to us by our Patron, Francis Day, and relocated to the site it currently sits on. This was heavily refurbished by a large group of volunteers and was officially opened in 2013. Now, the Red Door Theatre has become the backdrop for countless performances, from classic musicals to hip new musicals. It is a place where creativity thrives and where the community comes together to celebrate the magic of live performance.

Community Engagement

Community engagement has always been at the heart of Nelson Musical Theatre. We believe in the power of theatre to bring people together and to inspire and entertain. Our theatre is more than just a venue; it is a vibrant hub where people of all ages and backgrounds can come together to share the love of theatre.

Looking towards the future

As we look to the future, Nelson Musical Theatre remains committed to our mission of bringing high-quality musical productions to the stage. We are excited to continue our tradition of excellence and to explore new and innovative ways to engage and inspire our audiences.

Join us on this incredible journey into the world of musical theatre. Experience the passion, the excitement, and the joy that only live performance can bring. We can't wait to welcome you to our next show!

The Committee

Hugh Neill

President

Tobias Young

Secretary

Jack Manson

Treasurer

Sam Nicholls

Vice President

Sarah Lewis

Committee Member

Lily-Ellen Martin-Hine

Committee Member

Lillie Prestidge

Committee Member

Saul Gibney

Committee Member

Tim Nicholls

Committee Member

Mark Nicholls

Committee Member

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