Latest news with #culturalcentre
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
The Spinning Room Hi-Fi among new Sunny Bank Mills businesses
A commercial and cultural centre has welcomed a range of independent retailers. Sunny Bank Mills in Farsley, near Leeds, has welcomed The Spinning Room Hi-Fi, Cargo Wines, Hoop Knit, Metz Cheesemonger, Candy Spa For Kids, the Welly Club Forest School, Right Nice Stuff, Duo Pilates, Swimsport, and Silly Loaf. Record Plant, meanwhile, has undergone an expansion. John Gaunt, joint managing director of Edwin Woodhouse and Co Ltd, the family company which owns Sunny Bank Mills, said: "It's so exciting to welcome these new retail businesses to Sunny Bank Mills. "It was always our vision to create a place that people both love to visit and to work in. "The new retail businesses fit that vision perfectly. "Fifty per cent of the businesses at the Mills are now public facing. "Ten years ago, it was only 15 per cent, so it's very satisfying to see that vision become reality." William Gaunt added: "These are very exciting new lettings for us - and we are absolutely delighted at the range of businesses which are now joining us at Sunny Bank Mills. "They broaden our appeal and provide wonderful new retail facilities for everyone who works here and for those who visit us from further afield." More information is available at
The Guardian
6 days ago
- General
- The Guardian
The Guardian view on strengthening social cohesion: we can learn from the working-class past
The traditional showpiece of any summer in County Durham is the annual miners' gala, which last Saturday once again connected the region to its proud industrial past. This July, however, locals have another uplifting occasion to celebrate. More than a century after it first opened in Durham in 1915, one of Europe's most extraordinary monuments to working-class pride, self-confidence and optimism has been relaunched as a cultural centre and community hub. Boasting a white marble staircase, a domed roof and a spectacular debating chamber (the 'pitman's parliament'), the Durham Miners' Hall was originally built through the subscriptions of colliers working in what was one of the largest coalfields in Europe. Its refurbishment has been principally financed through the National Lottery Heritage Fund, and an official reopening is planned for the autumn. But events have already started to take place, including a public performance of mining songs by a primary school choir. The cultivation of communal memory in post-industrial regions can play an important role in evoking a sense of solidarity and belonging. But the charity trustees of Redhills – as the Miners' Hall is locally known – hope its rebirth can deliver much more than nostalgia. In the early 20th century, the building became a potent symbol of what collective action could achieve, as Durham's miners built their own tight-knit infrastructure of co-operatives, chapels, clubs and sports associations. That lost world was based on an industrial infrastructure that is no longer replicable. But in the north-east, and across the rest of the country, the question of how to foster greater social cohesion in alienated and disillusioned times has rarely been more urgent. This week, a major report for the new Independent Commission on Community and Cohesion argued that throughout the UK 'a 'doom loop' of inaction, crisis and piecemeal response had failed to strengthen the foundations of communities'. In places already resentful of years of neglect by policymakers, it noted a critical lack of sustained funding for grassroots groups working to enhance a sense of belonging and opportunity. Amid cuts to services and the ongoing cost of living crunch, large sections of communities felt socially cut off and mistrustful of institutions. A Redhills audit of community organisations in County Durham, undertaken with University College London, identifies similar issues. The result, in the words of one youth worker, is a generalised sentiment that 'it's all a bit grim, all a bit pointless, and that … influences how people feel about themselves, how families feel about themselves … And it spirals from there.' Last summer's racially charged riots in England – and more recent unrest in Northern Ireland – offer a disturbing illustration of the dangers when social disconnection turns toxic. By acting as a charismatic hub and local resource, Redhills' welcome renaissance has the potential to become a local focus for social renewal. In the autumn, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development is due to visit as part of ongoing research into the relationship between community attachment and economic development in 'left behind' places. Broader progress will only come, however, when the importance of communal wellbeing is prioritised in Whitehall as well, and ranked alongside a quest for growth that has focused mainly on Britain's cities. As the old miners' motto has it: 'The past we inherit, the future we build.' But Westminster must play its part too. Do you have an opinion on the issues raised in this article? If you would like to submit a response of up to 300 words by email to be considered for publication in our letters section, please click here.
BBC News
07-07-2025
- Business
- BBC News
Art gallery opens in former Hillsborough Wilko store
A former Wilko store in Sheffield has been repurposed for use as an art arts charity Hypha Studios has converted the site in Bradfield Road, Hillsborough, in order to feature work by local Thomas Griffiths, 31, said re-using these spaces was "vital" due to the number of empty buildings in the city."We should be able to re-use them in some way and give them a new lease of life so they can generate opportunities for the community," he added. The Hillsborough store closed in September 2023, after the high-street chain collapsed into Jennings, director of Hypha Studios, said the charity wanted to rethink the future of the high street and make it a "cultural centre".He said the charity worked as a middleman between landlords with empty buildings and artists in need of the can open up spaces "which would otherwise be closed off"."We really want people to make culture across the towns and cities where they are," he said."You don't know who's going to be the next Turner Prize winner, it could be someone in the current show at Wilko's." Listen to highlights from South Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North
BBC News
07-07-2025
- Politics
- BBC News
Row over plans to transform old United Reform Church in Norwich
A plan to transform a disused church into a cultural and arts centre with a bar is expected to be given the proposal would see the former United Reform Church in Princes Street, Norwich turned into a venue with space for 300 people.A report for city councillors said more than 600 people had signed an online petition backing the idea – and advises them to approve planning 101 people have objected, with concerns raised over noise and anti-social behaviour in the area, along with fears the church could become a nightclub. The dispute over the plans has led to one set of solicitors accusing another of trying to "bully" the council. Sitting empty since closing as a place of worship in 2020, a developer has put forward plans which would see the building used as a venue to host cultural events, classical music concerts and plans would also see the site used for art exhibitions and fitness classes, with features – including the church's historic organ – being preserved.A report for the council's planning committee said an online petition backed the idea, along with 41 people writing letters of person writing in favour said "spaces for positive and creative activities are essential" whilst another said it "would be an unbelievable asset".But there is strong opposition from others, with many concerned the building would be open until the early hours.A legal letter sent on behalf of one local landlord claimed the plan was to use the building as a nightclub, which would have a "serious, irreparable and unacceptable impact" on response, the developer's solicitors said the claim was "grossly unfair and based on a false premise" and the letter had sought "to bully the local planning authority into refusing the application". The report for councillors said that, with proposed closing times of no later than 11pm, the hours for the building "differ significantly from those typical of a nightclub".It recommends they give planning permission, subject to conditions including restricted opening hours and measures to insulate planning committee will vote on the plan on Thursday, where they will also decide on proposals for a piano bar at another nearby former church, which have also been recommended for approval. Follow Norfolk news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.
Malay Mail
20-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Malay Mail
27th Bangkok Festivals: A World-Class Spectacle in Thailand!
Experience the legendary 'Plácido Domingo' live in Thailand for the first time—alongside an Indian epic, dazzling Chinese ballet, operas, and jaw-dropping acrobatics Tickets Now Available! 10% discount per person for selected shows (cannot be combined with other promotions) Priority seating reserved Limited-edition souvenir BANGKOK, THAILAND - Media OutReach Newswire - 20 June 2025 -is making a grand comeback, bringing 14 stunning performances from over 10 countries across the year's lineup is nothing short of legendary—with theof, the iconic opera superstar. And that's just the beginning. Brace yourself for– an epic tale from India,– breathtaking Chinese ballet,and– powerful operatic masterpieces, dazzling Chinese acrobatics, a high-energy dance-meets-tech show from France and much more., at the Thailand Cultural Centre's Main Hall. Tickets go on sale, with early bird discounts for one month and an exclusiveavailable for early access and of this year's monumental highlights, Plácido Domingo, the legendary opera icon and one of, will perform in Thailand for the first and only time. With over 150 operatic roles in 4000 performances and 12 Grammy awards, Domingo has redefined opera for global audiences and remains one of the most influential figures in classical music history. This historic night becomes even more extraordinary as he shares the stage with two stars in classical music:, the radiant American soprano captivating international stages, along with, the groundbreaking Italian conductor hailed as one of the most powerful women in classical music. Together, they will create an unforgettable operatic masterpiece; this is more than a concert; it is a piece of musical the first time in Thailand, audiences will witness the grandeur of the Mahabharata, India's greatest epic reimagined for the global stage. "Mahabharata: 18 Days, Dusk of an Era" is a live, large-scale performance by Prabhat Arts International, founded in 1946, a renowned artistic institution known for breathing new life into ancient literature through modern artistic visually stunning production brings to life the 18-day war between the Pandavas and Kauravas, the cosmic clash of dharma (righteousness) versus adharma (unrighteousness) with a cast of over fifty performers. The show is a gripping infusion of Indian dance, drama and live dialogue with elaborate costumes brought out through levitation, aerial stunts, martial arts and immersive visual taking center stage is the breathtaking ballet interpretation of A Dream of Red Mansions, one of the Four Great Classical Novels of China, originally penned by Cao Xueqin in the 18th century. Often called "a mirror of Qing Dynasty society," the story remains one of the most poignant literary works in Chinese year, the acclaimed National Ballet of China reinterprets the tale through the elegance of Western ballet, capturing themes of love, longing, and the inevitable decline of a noble family. More than eighty dancers will bring the tragic love triangle to life with expressive choreography and powerful stage production arrives in Bangkok with six full containers of set pieces, lighting, and lavish costumes from Beijing, an awe-inspiring fusion of Chinese storytelling and Western ballet tradition, delivered with grace and grandeur on a single ready for an unforgettable second half of The Festival as Russia's prestigious Samara Opera & Ballet Theatre takes the stage in Bangkok with 4 spectacular productions. Renowned for its breathtaking performances and grand-scale productions, the company brings a diverse lineup ofopera and ballet masterpieces to Thai audiences. Leading the charge are two legendary operas: Tosca and Aida, timeless tales of love, loss, and power brought to life with stunning sets, soaring vocals, and a cast of over 250 magic continues with a brand-new production of The Nutcracker made just for their visit to Thailand, Tchaikovsky's beloved Christmas ballet. Rounding off their lineup is the emotionally charged contemporary ballet, a dramatic reflection on power, identity, and the courage to embrace one's true self, showcasing the precision and grandeur of Russian ballet at its finest and the only theatre in the world who performs this excitement doesn't stop there. This year's festival brings high-octane energy and universal appeal with China National Acrobatic Troupe, performing in celebration of the 50th anniversary of Thai–Chinese diplomatic relations. With over 50 acrobats and more than 74 international gold medals, prepare to be amazed by gravity-defying stunts and jaw-dropping feats of step into the future with, a groundbreaking French production that merges street, hip-hop, roller blading and contemporary dance with state-of-the-art visual technology. Featuring 3D graphics, projection mapping, and interactive special effects, this performance is a visual spectacle that will leave you festival also features an eclectic lineup of international performances, namely,, a vibrant journey through Cuban dance from past to present,, a contemporary flamenco performance from Spain, pulsing with passion, a Gatsby-style dance drama paying tribute to female strength and the pursuit of dreams, a percussion show that redefines rhythm and movement, and, one of Europe's top orchestrasand a Grammy recipient, will deliver classical brilliance and also features 29 year old American pianistfrom the Los Angeles 27th International Festival of Dance & Music is made possible with generous support from the both public and private sector, including AXA Insurance, Bangkok Bank, BMW Thailand, Indorama Ventures, Singha Corporation, Supalai, Swissôtel Bangkok Ratchada, Thai Union Group, Tourism Authority of Thailand, and the Ministry of your tickets early and get exclusive access to Platinum Packages, a premium experience crafted for true fans of the arts. EnjoyBangkok Bank credit card holders receive up to 20% off through the Early Bird period, making this the perfect time to indulge in a world-class cultural miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness artistic excellence from around the world. Tickets on sale from June 14 to July 14, 2025, at all Thai Ticket Major branches and at . For full program details,visit: Hashtag: #BangkokFestivals The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Bangkok Festivals Established in 1999, Bangkok's International Festival of Dance & Music is Asia's largest and most prestigious performing arts festival. Featuring top-tier talent from across the globe in opera, ballet, orchestral music, contemporary performance, and cross-cultural showcases, the festival strives to elevate the Thai arts scene and provide unforgettable experiences for local audiences. Follow us for updates and news at
