Downstairs

10 October – 30 October

110 Years of the Opera House - EXHIBITION

Hastings’ iconic Hawke’s Bay Opera House will mark its 110th anniversary this October with a special art exhibition and live auction, offering the public a rare opportunity to own a piece of the venue’s storied history.

The 110 Years of the Opera House Exhibition opens Friday, 10 October and runs until Thursday, 30 October here at Arts Inc. Heretaunga (Hastings Art Centre), culminating in a live auction on Friday, 31 October to be held on the Opera House stage.

The exhibition features eight of 10 original artworks created by some of Hawke’s Bay’s most celebrated artists—each painting representing a decade of the Opera House’s history. These works were digitally reproduced and displayed on the hoardings surrounding the Municipal Building during its earthquake strengthening.

Now, the original works by Freeman White, John Eaden, Kate Mackenzie, Mauricio Benega, Cinzah Merkens, Jo Blogg, Timo Rannali and the late Fane Flaws will be available to view during the exhibition and purchase at the live auction on 31 October.

Hastings mayor Sandra Hazlehurst said the exhibition was a fitting tribute to one of Hastings’ most iconic buildings.

A boxing match held at the Opera House in 1922. CREDIT/MTG Hawke's Bay

“The Opera House has been the heart of our city’s cultural life for more than a century. This exhibition and auction not only celebrate its history but allow our community to take home a part of that story. It’s a truly special way to honour 110 years of creativity, performance and connection.”

Councillor Michael Fowler, local historian and author of Hawke’s Bay Opera House – The First One Hundred Years (1915–2015), provided each artist with stories from their assigned decade to help inspire their work. He said the event brought the Opera House’s past to life in a unique way:

“The Opera House has witnessed everything from grand openings and world-class performances to community gatherings and cherished family moments. To see its story told through the eyes of our talented artists is a rare and moving experience.”

 Local contributing artist Mauricio Benega said it was a privilege to contribute to such a significant milestone.

“The Opera House is more than just a building – it’s a place that inspires and connects us. My work is a personal reflection of the stories and emotions tied to this space, and I’m proud to be part of a project that preserves and celebrates its legacy. I remember, looking at the black and white pictures from the boxing matches, and having the beautiful architecture of the arcades as the background was super inspiring.“

A highlight of the auction (held on the Opera House stage) will be the unveiling of a new work by Freeman White, representing the decade from 2015 to 2025, completing the 110-year visual history. This piece was generously sponsored by GEMCO and will remain on permanent display in the Opera House.

From grand openings to curtain calls, the Hawke’s Bay Opera House has set the stage for over a century of stories. Now, its walls and history inspire this extraordinary exhibition and auction – celebrating 110 years of creativity, connection, and community in Hawke’s Bay.