About Blackfriars Arts Centre
Blackfriars Arts Centre: A Hub of Entertainment and Art in Boston
Blackfriars Arts Centre is a renowned entertainment and arts center located in Boston, Lincolnshire. It has been serving the community for over 50 years, providing a platform for local amateur dramatic and operatic groups to showcase their talent. The center also hosts professional stage productions, making it a hub of entertainment and art in the region.
The History of Blackfriars Arts Centre
The building that houses Blackfriars Arts Centre was originally built as a Dominican friary in the 13th century. After the dissolution of monasteries by King Henry VIII, it was converted into a private residence before being used as an inn during the 18th century. In 1966, it was purchased by Boston Borough Council with the aim of converting it into an arts center.
After extensive renovations, Blackfriars Arts Centre opened its doors to the public on October 1st, 1966. Since then, it has become an integral part of Boston's cultural scene.
Facilities at Blackfriars Arts Centre
Blackfriars Arts Centre boasts two performance spaces - The Main Theatre and The Revue Bar - both equipped with state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems. The Main Theatre can seat up to 250 people while The Revue Bar can accommodate up to 80 people.
In addition to these performance spaces, there are also several rehearsal rooms available for hire by local groups or individuals looking for space to practice their craft.
The center also has a licensed bar that serves drinks before performances and during intervals. There is also a coffee shop that offers light refreshments throughout the day.
Local Amateur Dramatic Groups at Blackfriars Arts Centre
Blackfriars is home to two very successful local amateur dramatic groups - Boston Playgoers Society and Shoddy Theatre Company.
Boston Playgoers Society was founded in 1924 and has been performing at Blackfriars since its inception. They produce four shows each year ranging from classic dramas to modern comedies.
Shoddy Theatre Company was formed in 2009 with the aim of producing innovative theatre that challenges both performers and audiences alike. They have won several awards for their productions including Best Production at Lincolnshire One Act Play Festival in both 2015 &2017.
Professional Stage Productions at Blackfriars Arts Centre
In addition to hosting local amateur dramatic groups' performances, Blackfriar's Art Center hosts professional stage productions throughout the year featuring well-known actors from across Britain's theatre scene.
These productions range from classic plays such as Shakespeare's Hamlet or Oscar Wilde's Importance Of Being Earnest through contemporary works like Alan Ayckbourn’s Absurd Person Singular or Willy Russell’s Educating Rita.
Each season brings new exciting shows which attract visitors from all over Lincolnshire who come not only enjoy great theater but also experience this historic venue steeped in history dating back centuries ago when monks walked these halls!
Conclusion:
If you're looking for quality entertainment or want somewhere unique where you can practice your craft as an artiste then look no further than Blackfrairs Art Center! With its rich history dating back centuries ago when monks walked these halls combined with modern facilities like state-of-the-art lighting & sound systems plus licensed bar & coffee shop on site make this venue one not be missed!