10 October 2006
Hannah Playhouse Architecture Award Unveiling
A handsome new plaque adorns the Hannah Playhouse, the purpose built home of Downstage theatre. On 27 May the 2006 New
Zealand Institute of Architects’ Award for enduring architecture was given to James Beard’s Hannah Playhouse, built
in1973 and still standing strong.
The plaque recognizing this outstanding achievement is to be celebrated at an event at the theatre at 5.30pm on Friday
13 October.
Present for the occasion will be Hannah Playhouse architect James Beard, who will speak about the development of the
design for the site, along with Chris Prowse (Chair of the Hannah Playhouse Trust), Raymond Boyce, MBE, Catherine
Downes, MNZM, (Director of Downstage Theatre) and Tommy Honey (Chair of Downstage Theatre) plus invited guests.
Food and refreshments will be served and it will be a great opportunity to recognize the significant artistic and
architectural contribution that Downstage and the Hannah have made to the city of Wellington since 1964.
The Hannah Playhouse was built to house Downstage theatre with funds provided by outstanding patron of the arts, the
late Sheilah Winn CBE. She chose the name the Hannah Playhouse to honour her mother and the family’s business interests
that were the source of the funds.
Downstage theatre continues to thrive and entertain the theatre goes of Wellington and has seen sell out seasons for the
past two shows, Dylan Thomas’ Under Milk Wood and The Blonde, The Brunette and The Vengeful Redhead starring Kerry Fox.
For more information about the event, the Hannah Playhouse and the award, please don’t hesitate to contact either of the
following:
ENDS