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Culture transformation for ex-miners' welfare hall

Barnsley Council Dearne playhouse external shotBarnsley Council
External stonework at the Dearne Playhouse stonework has been restored as part of the project

A former miners' welfare hall and community theatre has reopened its doors after a multimillion-pound transformation into a cultural and community "hub".

The £3m work on the Dearne Playhouse in Goldthorpe, which dates back 101 years, was aimed at transforming it into "a cultural cornerstone of the Dearne", according to Barnsley Council.

The work, paid for by the government’s Towns Fund, included the installation of a new roof, lighting and technical equipment.

Councillor Robin Franklin, cabinet spokesperson for regeneration and culture, said the restoration would ensure it "continues to be a focal point for the community for generations to come".

The Playhouse was "a jewel in Goldthorpe’s crown", he added.

“We can’t wait to see the Dearne Playhouse thrive as a centre for creativity and community gatherings."

Barnsley Council Theatre auditorium with red curtains on the stageBarnsley Council
The building has been given new lighting and technical equipment, as well as a new stage floor and roof

Work at the site, which got under way last year, with a second phase launched in February, also included the conversion of basement storage space into rehearsal rooms and a studio.

Meanwhile, more parking was created and dressing rooms and backstage areas were updated, Barnsley Council said.

As part of the same project, paths in the neighbouring Welfare Park are being resurfaced and a new public artwork installed, with CCTV provided by South Yorkshire Police.

The Playhouse work formed part of the £23.1 million Goldthorpe Town Deal, a package of projects for the Dearne Valley funded by UK government, the council said.

Playhouse manager Julie Medlam said she was "thrilled" with the future possibilities for the site offered by the recent work.

"The new facilities will greatly benefit local artists, musicians and theatre groups, making the Playhouse even more vibrant and inclusive," she said.

“I look forward to welcoming everyone back to see it for themselves. We can’t wait to raise the curtain on a new era for our much-loved theatre."

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