Penwortham Arts Centre: The Venue
Centre for community arts
Penwortham Arts Centre is known locally as 'The Venue', a name adopted by Penwortham Town Council upon opening.
The arts centre is an all action, 80-seater venue, hosting film clubs, art exhibitions, live music and poetry recitals - the home of contemporary performance in South Ribble.
The council's belief in the vision for the building made it possible to reinvent the venue, but it would be nothing without the volunteers who run it. It is an entirely volunteer-run centre, and with the assistance of the council, the local community organise and run events there.
The most popular events are the comedy nights. Due to the intimate feel of the venue, people get the chance to interact with the comedian making it an immersive show and often a sell-out! Monthly cinema nights and regular concerts are always a hit with customers, especially when it is a local talent performing and visitors can enjoy live music most Friday and Saturday nights with The Venue's fully licensed bar.
Interesting facts and history of the building
Penwortham Council obtained the building in 2018, having formerly been a much-loved Lancashire County Council owned library.
The building dates back to 1936, just before World War II, and is believed to be one of several libraries built around the country at the time using money from the Carnegie Trust.
Urbanisation of the town meant facilities were needed to cater to the community, of which the library served as a social hub. The Arts Centre incorporates its history in its modern purpose, retaining the original lamps at the door reflecting the art deco style the building was originally designed it.
The Penwortham crest takes pride of place on both sides of the door and the archway that has been the entrance for over 70 years subtly reads 'The Venue', combining its past and present.
The rejuvenation of the building is yet just another part of the revival of Liverpool Road - Penwortham's main road, running through the centre of the town. It has enjoyed somewhat of a facelift in the past decade. The road is now the hub of the area, hosting trendy bars and social spots.
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