New Zealand’s Downstage Theatre is set to close down after 50 years. The Board of the Wellington theatre announced Tuesday that the company will cease operation after the Creative New Zealand decided to discontinue its funding in 2014.

Downstage Theatre Trust chair Allan Freeth explained that the Board did not take their decision lightly.

“Downstage has fifty year history of bringing outstanding theatre experiences to Wellington audiences,” he said in a statement. “In recent years the theatre has pursued a new model – based on partnerships with artistic companies, taking risks on new works, and creating a supportive environment for artists.

“It is not possible to continue this work without adequate and stable funding.”

The theatre will close down immediately after the season of “Live at Six,” which is currently showing and will end on Saturday, September 21.

Board acknowledged the achievements of the people who worked with the theatre over the years, as well as its dedicated supporters, funders, and sponsors. Mr Freeth said the Board also acknowledged the contribution of CEO and Directory Hilary Beaton.

Wellington City Council’s Art and Culture Portfolio spokesman Ray Ahipene-Mercer noted the “heroic efforts” of the Board in the recent years to keep the theatre operational.

“Downstage has had a great and storied history over the past five decades. It has delighted generations of Wellington theatre-goers and has launched many careers,” he was quoted by APNZ as saying.

“However all artistic endeavour has a life cycle.”

He continued to say that the City Council would work to encourage and assist any theatrical ventures that would take the place of Downstage.

“We need to be positive about what that could be – while at the same time recognising the personal hurt that will be felt by the founders, staff, supporters, and fans of Downstage.

“One of the great things about art and culture is you never know what will emerge,” Mr Ahipene-Mercer said.

Downstage Theatre presents “My Brilliant Divorce”