MAJOR works have been carried out to deliver a thriving community and cultural hub at the Dearne Playhouse and Welfare Park in Goldthorpe.
Funding from the Goldthorpe Town Deal - a £23.1m investment in the Dearne area - paved the way for the transformation of the historic theatre, formerly Goldthorpe Miners’ Welfare Hall.
In the middle of the park is ‘The Rainbow Spiral’, a vibrant ground painting which brightens up the space in front of the venue, which was opened by Brian Blessed in 2006.
This has been designed by local young people with the support of Dearne Valley artist Dan Jones.
Dan also worked with young people at the Dearne I Know I Can Centre in Goldthorpe to design and create a colourful mosaic inlay added to the steps in front of the playhouse’s main entrance, known as the ‘Positivity Steps’.
Leaders behind the scheme gathered on Saturday to officially unveil the improvements.
Councillor Robin Franklin, cabinet spokesperson for regeneration and culture, said: “I am delighted with the scale of the impact our investment through the Goldthorpe Town Deal.
“The £3m community and cultural hub project has brought forward new high-quality rehearsal, music recording and meeting spaces at the playhouse and greatly enhanced its surroundings.
“We’ve also commissioned uplifting and inspiring artwork, added much-needed car parking and improved public safety.
“We are committed to enabling everyone in Barnsley to enjoy memorable cultural experiences and I look forward to this community hub playing a major role in that mission.”
Work at the theatre included the addition of a sound-proofed music studio, redecoration throughout, a new basement entrance to aid accessibility and sensitively-done repainting of the venue’s distinctive gold detailing.
Theatre manager Julie Medlam added: “The venue is in high demand from community groups using the space on a weekly basis, including the Dearne Playhouse Youth Theatre and Dearne Playhouse Musical Theatre Company.
“We also have a range of weekend bookings including local dance school showcases and competitions, pantomimes, tribute acts and other community events.
“The theatre’s transformation under the Towns Fund programme is amazing and we are busier than ever.”
The community and cultural hub project is part of a major package of projects under the Goldthorpe Town Deal, which is funded by the government’s Towns Fund.
It has already delivered the Horse and Groom Square at the heart of Goldthorpe and created jobs through the funding of extensions to the premises of local firm KMS Transport.
Matthew Stephens, chair of the Goldthorpe Town Board, said: “The Dearne Playhouse and Welfare Park have a proud place in the history of Goldthorpe of the Dearne and it is wonderful to see how they have been conserved and improved for future generations to enjoy.
“The playhouse is going from strength to strength thanks to this investment, with local groups making the most of the top-class facilities on offer.
“The addition of inspiring new artwork and car parking, along with resurfaced roadways and safety improvements has also greatly enhanced Welfare Park.
“I hope everyone in the Dearne will make the most of these upgraded facilities and look forward to seeing the Dearne flourishing as a hotbed for the arts in years to come.”
