Grand Old Playhouse Music Hall

12 - 14 June 2026

Staged by the Dunedin Repertory Society Inc

Dunedin audiences are invited to step back in time this June for a glittering evening of song, comedy and nostalgia, as the Playhouse Theatre celebrates a remarkable milestone with The Grand Old Playhouse Music Hall.

Staged by the Dunedin Repertory Society, this joyful production will celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Playhouse Theatre building, which first opened its doors on 24 May 1876 as a lodge of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.

And just like the building’s 1876 opening concert, the Grand Old Playhouse Music Hall promises to be the Grandest Amateur Concert of the Season.

Inspired by the great British music hall tradition, which was popular at the time, the show will feature a mix of comic songs, sketches and rousing choruses. 

If you’ve never experienced a Music Hall before, you’re in for a treat. Audiences can expect everything from cheeky Cockney classics to absurd sketches to beautiful ballads, all held together by a charismatic Chairman. 

The show will feature many top Dunedin performers who will be familiar to audiences from the city’s theatre and music scenes. Bridget Telfer Milne, Arlie McCormack, Harriet Moir, James Adams, Darrel Read and many others will take to the stage in this celebration, dressed for the occasion in the Repertory Society’s most special costumes.

The season doubles as a fundraiser to help secure the future of the theatre. Funds raised will contribute towards the Playhouse Theatre refurbishment project, ensuring that this well-loved community venue can continue to serve performers and audiences for generations to come. 

There will be three performances of this show, on the evenings of Friday 12 and Saturday 13 June, and a matinee on Sunday 14 June.

Whether you’re a long-time theatre supporter, or a first-timer up for a night of laughter and song, The Grand Old Playhouse Music Hall will be a wonderful evening of music and memories. 

All tickets are $40, available at www.theatretickets.co.nz/shows/playhouse