01 February 2012
Later this month, Blackwood Miners' institute will celebrate a very special milestone… its 20th anniversary of operating as a professional theatre!
Built and paid for out of the Miners' wages at 3d a week, Blackwood Miners' Institute originally opened as a single storey snooker hall in 1925. Following the pit closures in the 1970's and 1980's the building fell into disrepair, but opened as an arts and entertainment venue on 17th February 1992.
Caerphilly County Borough Council are currently investing £750,000 in a refurbishment programme, and the building has recently undergone a dramatic facelift including brand new seats, full internal decoration, a brand new roof and restoration to the front façade.
To mark the anniversary and to celebrate the refurbishment, a weeklong series of events is planned… and in keeping with Blackwood Miners' Institute's aims to present the highest quality arts and entertainment possible for a wide range of audiences, there's something available for everyone!
The week kicks off on Tuesday 14th February, with Phil Dando and his five-piece band, who will perform at a very special afternoon-tea dance between 2pm and 4pm.
Big bands and dances have been an important feature in the building since it was originally built as a miners' welfare hall, and many long-lasting relationships were started at dances at the 'Stute, so Phil Dando will also perform at 7.30pm for a special Valentine's Day dance with his larger 15-piece big band!
On Wednesday 15th February there will be a special Open Day, with free creative workshops for everyone to enjoy. Workshops include crafts, break dancing, creative writing, watercolours, zumba and architectural history. A full schedule is available at www.blackwoodminersinstitute.com
On Thursday 16th February to celebrate the importance of family events at the 'Stute, we have a family-friendly circus show with a difference. Featuring the most unlikely of performers including an acrobatic potato sack, a daredevil ski glove and a dancing milk straw. Suitcase Circus is on at 1.30pm, lasts an hour, and is suitable for ages 4+.
On Friday 17th February we celebrate the 20th anniversary itself with a special Anniversary Gala, featuring some very special guests which will announced later this week. So watch this space!!
And to finish the week with a bang, the UK's number one live Motown show, The Magic of Motown is set to play on Saturday 18th February. This popular show is a big hit with customers and only a few tickets are remaining
Further information and tickets for events are available from Blackwood Miners' Institute's Box Office on 01495 227206 or online at www.blackwoodminersinstitute.com
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