Fortune Theatre Building, Dunedin

The Fortune Theatre building, originally constructed as Trinity Methodist Church in 1869, is a beautiful example of Gothic Revival architecture located in central Dunedin. Designed by renowned architect R.A. Lawson-who also designed the city’s First Church and Larnach Castle-the building features characteristic pointed arches, lancet windows, and a dramatic stone façade crafted from local basalt with Oamaru stone detailing. Its imposing yet graceful appearance has made it a recognizable fixture in Dunedin’s historic urban landscape for over 150 years.

Originally serving a large Methodist congregation, the building transitioned into a cultural venue in 1977 when it became home to the Fortune Theatre, New Zealand’s southernmost professional theatre company. This marked a significant chapter in the building’s history, as it hosted a wide range of dramatic performances and fostered a vibrant arts scene in the region. For decades, the venue served as a launchpad for local talent and a hub for contemporary New Zealand and international plays, contributing richly to the country’s performing arts landscape.

Though the Fortune Theatre company closed in 2018, the building remains an important heritage site and symbol of adaptive reuse. The structure’s acoustics and layout have lent themselves well to various public functions, and there have been ongoing discussions about future arts-related uses. Its architectural integrity and cultural legacy continue to make it a valuable asset in Dunedin’s heritage inventory.