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[L to R Ann Ellison, Artistic Director, Next Stage Theatre Company; Cllr Kevin Guy, Leader of B&NES; Becca Jefferis, Venue Manager]
A new community and arts hub in Bath has been welcomed by B&NES leader Cllr Kevin Guy as a big boost to arts in the city.
Councillor Guy recently toured Burdall’s Yard in Walcot to see for himself the new performance and events venue recently taken over by the Next Stage Theatre Company.
The former brewery and night club, which had lain empty for two years has been transformed and now boasts a main stage, gallery and studio which can host live music, dance, comedy, theatrical productions, recordings, exhibitions, classes, workshops, meetings and events.
Councillor Guy was shown around the facilities by Ann Ellison, Artistic Director of the Next Stage Theatre Company and Becca Jefferis, the venue’s manager.
Councillor Guy said: “The arts have been hit particularly hard by the impact of the pandemic so it’s fantastic to see this new venue open its doors. We have so many talented artists in Bath and North East Somerset and its important they have access to high-class facilities like Burdall’s Yard to showcase their work.
“Whether it’s music, dance, theatre or painting the arts play a major role in supporting our physical, emotional and mental wellbeing so its important people feel they can now safely return to arts events, whether that’s attending a comedy night at Burdall’s Yard or taking advantage of the free tickets being offered to residents by Bath Philharmonic to their performances at Bath Forum.”
Burdall’s Yard is the Next Stage Theatre Company’s second performance space in the city. The company have run the Mission Theatre in Corn Street since 2004.
Artistic Director Ann Ellison said: “We want to provide attractive, affordable spaces for people who wish to set up daytime classes in the city for activities such as yoga, Pilates, dance, art, storytelling, drama, theatre, language classes, and toddler groups. Burdall’s Yard is a wonderful venue and we’re really excited about the new opportunities it provides”.
Burdall’s Yard is already busy with evening bookings but is keen to hear from anyone interested in hiring the venue or joining the team of volunteers who help behind the bar or front of house when the arts hub is open.
For more information visit: www.burdallsyard.co.uk
