About 23 The Octagon
Located at the heart of Ōtepoti Dunedin, “23 The Octagon” refers to the historic Athenaeum building on Dunedin’s central plaza. This Victorian-era structure originally opened on 9 May 1870 and was designed by architect David Ross. Its blue-stone and brick exterior presents a classical two-storey façade onto the Octagon . The building has housed the Dunedin Athenaeum & Mechanics’ Institute library for over 150 years – making it the only purpose-built athenaeum in New Zealand still serving its original mission . In recent years the upper floors have been converted into the New Athenaeum Theatre (NAT), a community-run performance and co-working venue. With seating for roughly 60–90 patrons in a flexible black-box layout , 23 The Octagon offers an intimate setting for live arts while its heritage architecture connects today’s audiences to Dunedin’s literary and cultural past.
Events and Programming
New Athenaeum Theatre hosts a wide variety of events year-round. You’ll find theatre productions, stand-up comedy, live music gigs, dance and burlesque shows, poetry readings, and even adult drag revues on its stage. It serves as a hub for Dunedin’s arts community and is a regular Fringe Festival venue. For example, local bands and experimental acts (such as the industrial dance event PENTALOGY) have performed here, and the city’s best-known comedian Paul Ego has brought comedy shows to this room. Each month the theatre holds community nights – e.g. the “Octagon Poetry Collective” meets every second Wednesday at 7pm for free open-mic poetry readings . Other recurring events include improv nights, author talks, or themed music evenings. Ticket prices range widely: grassroots music or spoken-word nights often charge around $10–$15, while larger productions or big-name acts run $25–$40. Some family shows or matinees are even free or donation-based. Audiences should check the NAT or local event listings for exact dates and prices, but as a rule most shows are very affordable (often under $30) to keep the arts scene accessible.
Tickets and Booking
Most event tickets are sold online through the specific event’s page or a booking platform. Some shows let you reserve or buy at the NAT’s small box office in the foyer; however, for a fast sell-out act you’ll likely need to book ahead. Generally, tickets go on sale as soon as a performance is announced – often weeks to a month in advance, especially for Fringe or popular touring shows. Buying early is wise for in-demand events. Pricing tiers vary (advance vs. door), with advance tickets usually $2–5 cheaper. Lower-priced “early-bird” tickets or concessions may appear. Whatever the show, box office and website listings will indicate if there is a presale, online booking form, or a door-sales policy. It’s common to reserve ticketed seats or entry times via a booking platform, but you can often pay at the door (cash or card) if a show isn't sold out. There are no official membership clubs or season subscriptions – each event stands on its own sale. For sold-out performances, organizers sometimes open a waitlist or release last-minute tickets.
Seating and Layout
The venue is a small black-box theatre on the upper floor. The main performing area is rectangular and flexible: seating is usually arranged with rows of movable chairs on a flat floor, but at times events opt for standing room or lounge seating. In its default setup the NAT holds about 60 audience members, though reconfigured seating (with chairs closer together) can stretch to around 80–90 . There are no assigned or tiered seats – first come, first served seating. Sightlines are generally good from anywhere in front of the stage. For play or spoken-word evenings, the front-row center is ideal for intimacy; during noisy concerts you may prefer a middle spot to balance sound. One should avoid standing directly by the entrance or speaker clusters (to the sides), as latecomers or sound equipment can block views. There is no balcony or separate tiers – everyone shares the ground floor. The NAT’s atmosphere is very “in-your-face” performer-to-audience, so even the back row feels close. Acoustically the space is lively but can echo slightly against the high ceiling and brick walls, so experienced audiences often position themselves centrally for the best sound.
Getting There and Parking
23 The Octagon is situated on the corner of Stuart Street and the central plaza known as The Octagon, Dunedin’s city square. Public buses are the easiest way to reach it: every main city bus route stops at The Octagon hub just steps away, including routes 1, 14, 18, 63 and 77 . Look for Octagon bus stops D, E or F – each is only a one-minute walk from the venue. If driving, be aware that on-street parking around the Octagon is metered (and enforced roughly 9am–6pm, Monday–Saturday ). Limited free parking might be found on Sunday afternoons, but always check local signs for the current rules. The Octagon has few curbside spaces, so many drivers use nearby carparks (for example the Wilson 335 Rattray Street car park or Great King Street Multi-Storey). After evening shows, parking is easier outside paid hours. Taxi and rideshare drop-offs can be made at the Octagon (for instance on Moray Place), with just a short walk to the entrance corridor. The Octagon is well connected, and most Dunedin visitors simply hop off at the city centre and walk a block to the venue. (It’s about a 10-minute walk from Dunedin Railway Station or Railway Reserve Park.)
Inside the Venue
When you arrive, the entrance is up a hallway off the Octagon (see ↗Getting There). Box-office staff or volunteers will scan or check your ticket at the door. Security is minimal – you won’t face strict searches, but valuables should stay with you. There is no formal coat check, so simply drape any coats on the racks in the foyer. The lobby area serves as a small bar lounge and also a co-working space, with tables and occasional events on display. A full bar is available, opening roughly one hour before curtain . Drinks (beer, wine, soft drinks) are reasonably priced; snacks may be limited to packaged options. Notably, you are welcome to bring purchased drinks into the auditorium during the show – however, BYO outside alcohol is not permitted. Restrooms are located nearby the foyer corridor; they include wheelchair-accessible, gender-neutral toilets . Inside the performance space, the lighting is set for the show and house lights dim. The venue tends to be chilly in winter and warm in summer – layered clothing is a good idea. There is limited Wi-Fi or power outlets for patrons, so assume you’ll rely on your phone’s data. Often, posters or merch tables are set up near the entrance by performing companies, offering programs or souvenirs. Cell reception is generally fine in this central location, so you can use ride-share apps or check info on the spot. Note that photography or recording during performances is typically discouraged unless announced otherwise.
Nearby Amenities
Because it sits in Dunedin’s Octagon, 23 The Octagon is surrounded by dining, drinking and hotel options. Within a short walk you’ll find restaurants of all kinds – from coffee shops and casual eateries to fine dining. For pre-show meals, some favorites include Craft Bar & Kitchen (CBK) on the Octagon, Emerson’s Brew Bar (local pub food and craft beer), the Greek tavern “Yamas!”, and various Asian (Thai, Japanese, Middle Eastern) and vegetarian cafes in the area. If you prefer a quick bite, the nearby Alexandra Square and George Street have food courts and pizza joints. Many people enjoy a drink at one of the Octagon’s bars before or after the show; The Craic Irish Bar (at 24 Octagon) and Vault 21 are just around the corner, though they can get busy on weekends. For lodging, there are several hotels close by: the Distinction Dunedin (Great King St), Scenic Hotel Dunedin City (Upper Stuart St), Holiday Inn (St Andrew St) and the upscale Dunedin Grand are all within 5 minutes’ walk. Other central hotels like the Kingsgate, Ibis or Aria are a bit farther but still an easy walk. If you arrive early, Dunedin also offers attractions like the Art Gallery (next door) or bookshops on George Street. After evening shows, note that the last city buses usually stop running by midnight, so many concertgoers rely on taxis or rideshares for the final trip home. The Octagon area is well-lit at night, but as with any city, it’s wise to stay in company if walking alone late.
What Makes This Venue Special
23 The Octagon is more than just a performance space – it’s a living piece of Dunedin’s cultural fabric. Architecturally, it’s a landmark heritage building: a grand Victorian Athenaeum whose façade and interior details evoke the city’s 19th -century prosperity. It was one of Dunedin’s first buildings dedicated to learning and community, and is still used for education and arts today . In fact, it’s noted as “the only purpose-built athenaeum in New Zealand still being used for its original purpose” , a point of pride for local history buffs. Internally, the NAT has a storied lineage – generations of Dunedinites remember this hall as an early moviehouse and the original home of Fortune Theatre (the city’s once-food professional company) in the 1970s. Many long-time residents see it as Dunedin’s “theatre workshop,” where playwrights and performers hone their craft. The space’s raw brick walls and shelving of the old library spill over into an artsy vibe. Community ownership adds to the charm: the NAT is run by a local trust, staffed by volunteers who bring genuine enthusiasm (often, cast members help sell tickets too!). Audience members often remark on the friendly, inclusive atmosphere – it feels like a passionate arts club rather than a corporate venue. The Octagon location itself is vibrant: right in the city’s entertainment district, near writers’ festivals and book fairs (the Athenaeum is linked with Dunedin’s UNESCO City of Literature status). All of this history and character means artists love playing here, and audiences get a dose of local lore with every show. From a 50-seat indie play to a crisis-era poetry reading, 23 The Octagon has a unique soul you won’t find in a generic auditorium.
Visitor Tips and Information
When planning a visit, keep a few practical tips in mind. First, arrive a bit early – the bar opens about an hour before curtain , and for popular shows you’ll want to claim good spots. Dress comfortably and in layers, since the temperature can vary. Check the event’s age rating: while many shows are all-ages, some are 18+. If attending an R18 or late-night performance (like adult comedy or drag), you’ll be ID-checked. Photography is usually not allowed once the show starts; step outside the theatre area if you want to snap pre-show photos of the historic lobby. Large backpacks are discouraged, and there’s no cloakroom, so keep baggage minimal. Since it’s an arts venue, applause after scenes or intermissions is polite – and the performers will often appreciate meeting the audience afterwards. Note the venue’s door policy: after show-start there is limited re-admittance, so be punctual or let staff know if you step out. If mobility is an issue, don’t hesitate to request assistance at the box office; staff can reserve a wheelchair space or point out ramps. Finally, check Dunedin’s transport schedule for late nights, and consider sharing a ride home if the hour is late. Follow the theatre on social media or sign up for their newsletter to stay aware of special events (they sometimes host pop-up performances or workshops). In short, plan ahead, enjoy the local flavor, and get ready to experience Dunedin’s warm, creative energy at one of its most beloved venues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 23 The Octagon in Dunedin?
“23 The Octagon” is the address of the Dunedin Athenaeum & Mechanics’ Institute building – a heritage site in the city centre. Today it houses the New Athenaeum Theatre, an independent live-arts venue. Originally opened in 1870, it’s a historic library and theatre space at The Octagon, listed as Category I for its cultural importance.
How many people can the venue seat?
The New Athenaeum Theatre is quite small and intimate. Normally it fits about 60 audience members, though with a tight seating arrangement it can stretch closer to 80 or 90. There is no fixed seating, so capacity varies a little by how chairs are set up.
What kind of performances take place here?
A wide range. The venue hosts local theatre productions, stand-up comedy, music concerts (bands or solo acts), dance and performance art, poetry readings, and drag/burlesque shows. It’s a community-oriented space, so you’ll find everything from experimental indie gigs to classical storytelling and monthly open-mic poetry nights.
How do I buy tickets?
Tickets are usually sold online through the event’s official page. Many shows use online booking platforms (like TryBooking) or the theatre’s own site. Some tickets may also be available at the door or the small box office before the show, if the event isn’t sold out. It’s safest to book early via the web link given in the event announcement.
What are ticket prices?
Prices vary by event. Low-key local gigs or poetry nights can be as cheap as NZ$10–$15. Mid-range performances (larger plays, solo shows with known performers) are often NZ$20–$30. Major acts or shows with special production values may go up to $40 or more. There are no fixed rates – check the specific event. Concessions or advance “early bird” rates are sometimes offered, so buying in advance can save a few dollars.
Are seats assigned?
No. The theatre uses a general-admission seating plan. When you arrive early you can pick your seat from the available chairs. For most shows there are no “bad” seats – the room is small and intimate. It’s best to arrive early for first choice of viewing spot, especially for free seating shows.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The DHAthenaeum building and the New Athenaeum Theatre are accessible. There is a ramp and wide door access from the foyer, and the theatre hall can accommodate wheelchairs. Accessible, gender-neutral bathrooms are available just outside the main entrance . If you need assistance or reserved spaces, the box office staff will help onsite.
Where can I park for the venue?
Parking in the Octagon is limited. On-street parking nearby is mostly paid (metered) parking, with fees applying roughly 9am–6pm, Mon–Sat . It’s wise to use the City Council carparks (e.g. the Wilson Park on Rattray St or the Heritage Great King St car park) if possible. On evenings after 6pm parking enforcement often stops, but check signs to be sure. Some visitors find nearby private lots or free street spots further out (on Princes/Gertrude Streets, for example) and walk a block. Otherwise the Octagon is a short bus or taxi ride from most parts of Dunedin.
Which bus stops are closest?
The Octagon is served by Dunedin’s main bus hub. In fact, several city routes stop right around the square. Stops labeled A–J encircle the Octagon. In particular, “Bus Hub Stop E” (corner of the Octagon) is only about a 30m walk from 23 The Octagon, and stops D and F each about 60m away . Buses 1, 14, 18, 63, and 77 are examples of routes that go through this hub . Just exit at the Octagon and look for the entrance corridor; the room is literally on the Octagon block.
Is photography allowed at shows?
Generally no flash photography or video recording during a performance (unless the show specifically permits it). It’s best to turn off mobile phone lights and refrain from filming. You may take pictures in the foyer and lobby before or after the show, but once the performance starts, staff will ask you to stop photographing to avoid distracting the actors and other audience members.
Can I bring my own food or drinks inside?
Outside food and beverages are not allowed into the auditorium. However, the theatre offers a bar where you can purchase drinks (beer, wine, soft drinks) and light snacks. Uniquely, you’re welcome to bring those purchased drinks from the bar into the seating area for the show . So you cannot BYO from outside, but you can enjoy the theatre’s own refreshments in the audience.
Are there age restrictions for events?
It depends on each event. Many shows at 23 The Octagon are family friendly or open to all ages, including daytime theatre or music. However, some evening events may be rated R18 (for adult content or language) – for those, tickets will state the age limit and you will need to show ID at the door. Always check the event listing. If no restriction is noted, minors are allowed.
What should I wear?
There is no formal dress code. Most people dress casually or business-casual. Because Dunedin weather can be cool, you may want a light jacket or sweater. On winter nights the building can be a bit chilly. In short, come comfortable – this is not a nightclub or gala, but the arts are relaxed.
Is there a coat check?
No. The venue does not have a formal coat check or locker service. Usually there is a simple rack or space near the entrance where you can hang jackets. Otherwise it’s best to carry any valuables with you or leave bulky items in your car. Because the space is small, everyone generally keeps their personal belongings at their seat.
Can I re-enter if I step out during a show?
Re-entry once a performance has started is only possible if the house lights are on or during an intermission. After that, doors are often locked to minimize disturbance, so try to use the restroom beforehand. If you must leave temporarily (for example with a child), speak to the usher – they may allow a quick exit and entry at an appropriate break.
When do doors usually open?
Typically the doors open 30–60 minutes before the showtime. This often coincides with the bar opening. For a 7:30pm show, expect to enter the building around 6:30–7:00pm . Arriving a bit early also lets you find seating and avoid lines.
Are credit cards accepted at the bar?
Yes, the bar and box office both accept credit/debit cards as well as cash. Major card networks are accepted. It’s handy to have some smaller bills for the bar, but card payment is convenient. Ticket purchases online or at the door can also be done by card.
Where exactly is the entrance to 23 The Octagon?
The entrance isn’t on the main plaza sidewalk but down a side corridor. From the Octagon square, find the narrow passageway between The Craic Irish Bar and The Thistle pub. Follow this hallway to reach the Athenaeum’s foyer and box office . Look for signage for New Athenaeum Theatre once you enter the corridor.
