Daneside

This theatre was built as a result of fund raising by amateur groups to replace the Town Hall which had poor acoustics and access problems for rehearsals.

The unprepossessing structure, which sits on the site of an old swimming pool, is an industrial construction of a brick lower half with corrugated metal above. Entry is through a wood and glass porch and leads to a foyer with an attractive bar. Stairs lead to the access doors to the auditorium - disabled access is separate - and also to a coffee bar. Seating is a single rake with sound and lighting controlled from the rear of the auditorium. Beneath the seating is storage space.

A flat, maple wood stage lies behind the proscenium arch and includes a grave trap. There is a grid of 10 lines but insufficient height to allow full flying. The orchestra pit/forestage will accommodate up to 20 musicians.

New facilities, including rehearsal rooms, storage space and workshop, were completed in 2001 at a cost of £320,000, which included a £50,000 Arts Council grant.

This is an intimate and friendly theatre which is now well equipped and provides an excellent home for local amateur companies as well as a good venue for visiting professional organisations.