The Bigger Picture
Friday, August 15th, 2008In our early discussions and consultations Culture Quarter have concentrated on the two main pillars of the proposal - RenaisArt, the community-based theatre initiative, which will deliver a creative environment for local amateur and professional theatre groups, and the Mind Sports Centre, which will attract visitors to Whitley Bay, to its hotels, guest houses and businesses.
However, it is also important to say clearly that we believe the Dome is a Community asset for Whitley Bay, and we want to see the building in use as much as possible every day.
There are plans for music and theatre events in the Dome itself, taking advantage of the distinctive ambience of the space. Events such as the Folk Moot, which is still recalled fondly by many in the Town, could be revived, and there will be activities based around music, arts and crafts, as well as theatre and mind sports, all based in the Spanish City building.
We envisage a cafe space, where anyone can enjoy some light refreshment and browse a gallery of local artists’ work, or perhaps some craft jewellery.
Live music of all kinds will be encouraged in the various spaces, with an emphasis on local performers, and the very special acoustic of the Dome will bring out the best in acoustic groups and choirs.
In short, we want to make this corner of Whitley Bay a hub for all kinds of creative endeavour, and a great place for an outing for the whole family - at any time, on any day of the year.