Martinborough Town Hall

Following on the heels of the District Council’s unanimous decision to spend nearly $1m on strengthening the building, August/September 2012 was one of the best periods in the Hall’s existence.

Throughout August, the place rang and shook with MADCAPS fun  –  so many rehearsals and then sell-out performances. The stage show focused on the Hall’s 1st 100 years, the foundation stone having been laid 17 September 1912 by the Member of Parliament for Wairarapa at the time, W P (later Sir Walter) Buchanan.

MADCAPS was soon followed by the 4-day Jazz in Martinborough Festival which included 3 sell-out performances in the Hall as well as music all over town. In its’ second year, JIM had another positive cash flow with $10,000 being set aside for Hall refurbishment. Within two weeks of the jazz festival ending, the Hall was full again with locals celebrating its centennial in style, raising more money for the historic building.   Only a week later, funds were boosted again: a small group of enthusiastic young ladies had the place rocking with a full-house Centennial Cabaret. That’ll be around another $5,000 for Hall restoration.

Yes, I know the old Hall has been the subject of controversy  –  should it stay or should it go? Well, I believe we can be glad the Council decided to keep it. None of these events, involving much work and many wallets, could have been so successful without it. Thank you everyone! The good news is that the District Council is planning a new Town Hall “Working Group” which will get the show on the road  and keep it going!

Ian Cresswell
Producer, Jazz in Martinborough.
Chairman, Martinborough Town Hall Committee.