The elaborate Victorian theatre (1878) offers a classic venue for national and international tours. The Theatre Royal in Nelson is over 130 years old, making it one of the oldest wooden theatres in New Zealand. Before the theatre closed in 2005, around 22,000 visitors a year enjoyed the theatre and dance performed by countless numbers of groups. With the team of volunteers, support of the local community and local government the Theatre Royal continues to be a world class stage for visiting performers.