Archives for 2023

From the 1960s to the 1980s, Dunedin was regarded by many as the most exciting city in New Zealand. It was a time of great music, food and entertainment. I was fortunate to be living there during part of this time and I have many fond memories of the lifestyle I was able to lead in such a fun environment.

ENTERTAINMENT

In the 1960s, Dunedin had a number of entertainment venues including seven cinemas, two of them offering big screen 70mm presentations which were only available in three other NZ cities. The State Theatre, even specialized in foreign films. I frequented this venue regularly but sadly I was one of only a dozen or so attending many of the screenings. When the State closed, it was converted into an unsuccessful mall. The Town Hall held frequent concerts and the popular Saturday night dances. The beautiful Regent Theatre with its elaborate interior, hosted the annual Capping Concert staged by students from Otago University. The concerts were always popular with the public, especially the naughty bits that always featured at some point during the shows. Dunedin even had its own professional theatre company. It was established in 1976 and survived for 44 years. Internationally recognized playwright Roger Hall lived in Dunedin at this time and he always premiered his popular plays at the Fortune Theatre. There was the yearly Agricultural Show which drew the crowds to the cavernous Agricultural Hall. His Majesty’s Theatre next door was home to touring shows from overseas but in the 60s it had been converted into Sammy’s Nightclub which also drew acts from abroad. read more