The heritage Playhouse Theatre building in Albany St requires an upgrade and the children’s wing of the repertory society presented a message about that to the Dunedin City Council yesterday.
Time was running out to save a venue that meant a lot to children and which contributed to their development, they said.
The council should chip in, they argued.
Rowan Metreyeon, 19, said the children’s theatre was such an institution it was easy to assume it could go on forever.
‘‘We can’t. We are on life-support. We need your help.’’
Arabella Wood, 9, laid out the situation with the building.
‘‘It’s cold and draughty and it often leaks backstage,’’ she said.
‘‘There are lots of stairs - they’re very wonky.’’
Arabella said the theatre needed a warm and safe backstage area.
‘‘The Playhouse doesn’t have enough money to do this by ourselves, so our committee is in need of your assistance.’’
Eva Reynolds, 17, said the theatre helped children in their personal growth and Charlie Milne, 16, said it enhanced community in Dunedin.
Ted Adams, 8, said it was a story that could still have a happy ending.
‘‘In 62 years, I’ll be as old as you, Mr Mayor,’’ he said.
‘‘I hope I’ll be able to take my grandkids to the children’s theatre.’’
