Wellington's Downstage theatre says it is confident it has enough public support to stay open after nearly closing in December.
The theatre lost 26% of its income when Creative New Zealand pulled its regular funding of $0.5 million last year.
Downstage chief executive director Hilary Beaton says donations have been flowing in from the public, allowing the theatre to work on next year's programme.
She says the theatre is developing new ways to make money, such as working with independently funded productions and running workshops and school visits.
Ms Beaton says this has led to Creative New Zealand reinstating funding this year.
After that, Downstage will have to apply to a contestable fund.
