A $500,000 fundraising project has been launched to save Dunedin's Globe Theatre.
More than 50 people attended an appeal fund launch on Wednesday to support an ambitious conservation plan for the historic theatre.
Renovation work would include earthquake strengthening, reroofing and fire protection, Friends of the Globe Theatre chairwoman Rosemary Beresford said yesterday.
''There's been so much love for the Globe in Dunedin over the years and we want to make sure it will continue for many years to come,'' Dr Beresford said.
A condition report and conservation plan prepared for the Historic Places Trust category 1 listed building earlier this year identified significant problems with the condition of the Globe and adjoining historic William Mason House, including water penetrating the theatre roof causing puddles to pool on stage.
''The greatest threat facing the Globe is the poor condition of the structure and fabric of the buildings,'' the report, by building conservation specialist Robin Miller, said.
A series of fundraising activities had been planned and funding applications were being submitted to national and community trusts, Dr Beresford said.
''We hope to raise the funds needed so that conservation repair work can begin as early as possible next year.''
The Globe Theatre was created in 1961 when Patric and Rosalie Carey extended the living room of their London St home into a 30-seat theatre.
The operation of the theatre was taken over by the Friends of the Globe Theatre when the Careys retired in 1973.
