Stiwt Theatr

The Miners’ Institute had live entertainment periodically from the start. Built above street level with a railed forecourt and steps up. In an attractive Baroque manner, red brick with ample stone dressings. Front in three major bays (1+3+1) the outer with entrances and segmental crowning pediments. Advanced portico in three bays divided by coupled Doric columns supporting an entablature and balustrade. Steep pyramidal slate roof crowned by a timber clock cupola with Ionic half-columns. Reinforced concrete internal construction. Galleried auditorium with stylised classical detailing; shallow segmental vault with guilloche bands carried on corbel-pilasters in Art Deco style, reflected in door surrounds. Sinuous gallery front with elaborate swagging. Rectangular proscenium with foliate surround. A major refurbishment scheme (£2 million plus) to improve stage facilities, dressing rooms and ancillary accommodation and turn the Institute into an important cultural centre, was completed in 1996.