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Market Hall

3389

A solid market building in local stone with pitched roof, the 'New Market Hall' was built in 1894, replacing an earlier 1844 building.

The main market took place on Saturdays, and by 1916 for the rest of the week the hall would be used as a cinema and entertainment hall. In the 1930s a new facade was built (the one seen today), which provided space behind for foyers and a projection box. It is possible that the raiased area of seating in the hall was added at this time.

In the 1970s the facade was obscured by metal cladding in angular 'aztec' style. Inside, a wall was inserted to create a 'New Stage', reducing the size of the hall to 350.

When the indoor market closed the space was adapted to form the Brynmawr Library. The former dressing rooms became administration offices. The cinema continued in the rear part of the auditorium, in the former balcony area. It is well-raked and with good facilities. As well as showing films, it is still home to Brynmawr Amateur Operatic Society’s annual productions (they use the library as dressing rooms and green room), and civic events.

The facade has been restored, with all cladding removed, market hall clock refurbished and simple lines of the canopy on slim pillars over the entrance doors.

Built / Converted
1894
Dates of use
  • : Prior to 1916 - c.2000
Current state
Extant
Current use
Cinema (Cinema and library, with amateur stage use)
Address
Market Square, Brynmawr, Gwent, NP23 4AJ, Wales
Further details
Other names
Market Hall Cinema , Town Hall Cinema
Events
  • Use: Prior to 1916 - c.2000
  • Owner/Management: Local authority, owner
  • Owner/Management: (Cinema leased by independent)
  • 1894 Design/Construction: New market hall opened on site of previous 1844 hall.
  • 1930 - 1939 Alteration: New facade, creating foyer space behind and new projection box.
  • 1970 - 1979 Alteration: Facade metal-clad; wall inserted in the hall reducing size but creating new stage.
  • 2008 Alteration: Exterior renovated, cladding removed, clock refurbished.
Capacities
  • Capacity
    Later
    Description
    1916: c.1000
    1937: 800
  • Capacity
    Current
    Description
    351
    Comment
    Cinema/theatre
Listings
Stage type
-
Building dimensions: -
Stage dimensions: -
Proscenium width: -
Height to grid: -
Inside proscenium: -
Orchestra pit: -