Isaac Theatre Royal

The historic Isaac Theatre Royal, built in 1908, suffered significant seismic damage during the 2010/2011 earthquakes in Christchurch, impacting its structural integrity and heritage fabric. As a socially and culturally valued building, the theatre holds a Category 1 / Grade A heritage-listed rating and is the only surviving Edwardian-style theatre in the country.

RCP was appointed by the Isaac Theatre Royal Charitable Trust to oversee the $40M rebuild and restoration project, providing design management, project management, and Engineer to the Contract services. The repairs included restoring 4,000m² of enclosed space, featuring a three-floor auditorium seating 1,292 individuals. The original 1908 facade was strengthened and rebuilt, while the auditorium, foyers, and egress areas were replaced to comply with current building codes. Key heritage items, such as the original 1908 ceiling dome, were meticulously restored. Additionally, an extendable stage with a hydraulic pit-lift was installed to enhance the theatre's suitability for orchestras.