Muni Arts Centre

Typical turn of the century ecclesiastical building, constructed of coursed rock-faced sandstone with ashlar dressings, a steep Welsh slated roof, tower and spire over main entrance. Located in a prominent position on one of the principal arterial roads through the town. Entry through the original main door to the church passes under a stained glass panel installed by the Taff Ely Council. After passing through a small lobby, immediately left is the Main Hall, to the right is the cafeteria/foyer and upstairs is the Castle Gallery Space, further administration offices. There is also a route to the Main Hall backstage and dressing rooms. The Main Hall was the originally the church nave, now completely fitted out in acoustic panels, flat-floored and rectangular in plan. A large and well equipped stage has been constructed although it is limited by four pillars inherited from the original church chancel. Restricted height for flying and there is no stage sub-machinery. It has direct access to a loading area outside (over land that is not owned by the venue) and to the main street to stage right. There are two dressing rooms backstage with direct access to both stage and front-of-house. Performers have to cross the stage from the get-in to reach the dressing rooms. The audience is accommodated on a combination of loose seating and retractable bleacher seating. The venue is a truly multi-functional studio space and its programme includes theatre, stand-up comedy, live music, dances and wedding receptions. On 14 May 2014 Rhonda Cynon Taf Council approved closure of the Muni Arts Centre. The Arts Centre closed in November 2014, but reopened in Autumn 2015 and is putting on some productions.