Rainbow Theatre Festival 2026

Now in its third year, the Rainbow Theatre Festival (6–8 March 2026) is a celebration of queer creativity and community in Ōtautahi Christchurch, proudly presented by The Court Theatre. Across three vibrant days, drag artists, comedians, writers, theatre makers and more from Aotearoa New Zealand and beyond will come together to create a safe, inclusive space where the rainbow community and allies can celebrate, connect, and be entertained.

The Rainbow Theatre Festival is proudly presented by The Court Theatre in collaboration with local artists, rainbow leaders, and community partners. Our creative team includes queer and ally artists who know the importance of telling rainbow stories with authenticity and heart. Together, we’re working to build a festival that not only entertains but strengthens our community.

The Court Theatre is Ōtautahi Christchurch’s leading professional theatre company. With a proud history of creating live theatre experiences for and with the community, we are committed to amplifying diverse voices and celebrating the rainbow community.

We are immensely grateful to Boost Ōtautahi and all our donors and supporters, with every dollar raised through this campaign up to $10,000 being matched by an additional dollar from Boost Ōtautahi and other anonymous supporters.

Your support goes directly into paying artists, keeping ticket prices accessible, and producing a bold and diverse programme of events.

This is your chance to make double the impact for rainbow voices – whatever contribution you can make, no matter how small, will be gratefully received.

Back for the third year running, Rainbow Theatre Festival (6–8 March 2026) is a celebration of queer creativity and community in Ōtautahi Christchurch. Presented alongside The Court Theatre’s year-round programme of plays and productions, this festival brings something extra to the calendar: a smashing up of queer and rainbow-centric theatre events created by the community, for the community and their allies.

Over three days during Christchurch Pride, we’ll bring together drag artists, theatre makers, comedians, writers, and rainbow voices from across Aotearoa New Zealand and beyond. Expect stand-up comedy, variety acts, literature read by fabulous theatre ‘Dames’, inclusive events for children, and more. Collaborations abound with new works, and of course the return of past favourites including Queered Scriptless and drag sensation Kita Mean.

This festival is about more than entertainment – it’s about pride, joy, and creating a safe, inclusive space where the LGBTQIA+ community and their allies can come together to celebrate and be seen.

“Rainbow weekend is a gold mine of stories of love, courage and triumph and I feel inspired by all of the attendees and performers.” – 2024 Rainbow Theatre Festival attendee

“It means being able to participate in Canterbury's queer scene and feel truly represented and included in my local community.” – 2024 Rainbow Theatre Festival attendee

Representation matters. The Rainbow Theatre Festival creates a platform for LGBTQIA+ voices in Ōtautahi Christchurch and gives audiences a chance to see themselves and their stories reflected on stage.

Your support means:

• More opportunities for rainbow artists to showcase their work.
• Accessible events for families, young people, and elders.
• Safe spaces for our community and allies to connect and celebrate.
• Greater visibility for LGBTQIA+ stories in the arts.

This festival will leave a legacy of pride – a strong declaration that rainbow stories belong at the heart of our city’s cultural life.