Summer Theatre takes epic journey to Middle Earth
Christchurch City Council Newsline: 5th January 2026
Elves, hobbits and orcs will take over the Botanic Gardens on Friday night as The Lord of The Rings in 90 Minutes! makes its debut on the Archery Lawn.
The 2026 season of Anthony Harper Summer Theatre is a fun-filled, laugh-a-minute journey into Middle Earth (and back again!)
Running from 9th to 25th January, the show brings you a playful spin on Tolkien’s famous trilogy, says Christchurch City Council Manager of Events and Arts Lucy Blackmore.
“Buckle up for an evening filled with irreverent delight. There’ll be battles, wigs, costume changes, LOTR bingo and a banging early noughties soundrack.”
Anthony Harper Summer Theatre has been running since the 1990s and is an iconic Christchurch summer experience.
“We’re fortunate to have such a talented pool of theatre-makers to draw from in Christchurch and we’re thrilled to have Lizzie Tollemache, Dan Pengelly and Darlene Mohekey take the reins again,” says Ms Blackmore.
“They have a wealth of experience as writers, directors and performers and I know this year’s event will be an absolute blast.”
Anthony Harper Summer Theatre is a free event, but koha donations will be gratefully accepted by Rollicking Entertainment - the production’s theatre company.
All ages are welcome, although these shows are best enjoyed by ages 12 years and over.
So, pack up a picnic (be it lembas bread, potatoes or something raw and wriggling) and something to sit on and see you in the gardens, for the return of the zing!
Evening shows begin at 7pm and weekend matinees are at 4pm.
View the full performance schedule The Lord of The Rings in 90 Minutes!