The Court Theatre re-launched on Wednesday night after the February earthquake forced it to close.
The theatre was based in the central city's gothic-style Arts Centre for 35 years but that building was badly damaged in the 6.3-magnitude quake on 22 February.
A temporary theatre has been built in a large shed, which was formerly a grain store, in the suburb of Addington.
Court Theatre chief executive Philip Aldridge says invited guests for the gala include include many who have donated and raised money for the $4.6 million rebuild.
Mr Aldridge says it is exciting to see one of the very first rebuilds in Christchurch completed.
He says opening night for the public will be on Saturday, with the performance of a new Roger Hall play, A Short Cut to Happiness.
