A new partnership to secure the future of Ormskirk Civic Hall begins in earnest on Tuesday 1 October.
The Engine Rooms will take over the management of the Civic Hall on that day from West Lancashire Borough Council, and are promising exciting times ahead.
Big names already booked to appear at the Civic Hall include highly acclaimed stand-up comedian, and star of ITV programme The Chase, Paul Sinha. He brings his live show to Ormskirk on Friday 15 November, while Patrick Monahan, winner of ITV talent contest Show Me The Funny, performs on Monday 2 December.
James Furnell, managing director of the Engine Rooms, said: “We are very excited about taking over the management of the Civic Hall. We have booked some sensational touring shows and plan to make further announcements of well-known comedians coming to town in the coming weeks. We aim to keep events as diverse as possible and with the support of the community we can bring some really exciting high-profile events to The Civic Hall. We have also been in discussion with most of the drama and community organisations that have used the building for many years, and expressed our support for their continued use.”
Since opening in 2007 the Engine Rooms has developed a dynamic, community-based venue in Skelmersdale. This offers activities and entertainment ranging from music tuition, rehearsal rooms and recording studios to live music, theatre and comedy. The organisation also does a huge amount of work with the local community.
Councillor Ian Grant, West Lancashire Borough Council leader, said: “There are exciting times ahead for the Civic Hall and I am really pleased we have been able to reach an agreement for the Engine Rooms to take over its management. The Engine Rooms has a tried and tested record of working with the local community and the Council is looking forward to working with them.”
Edward McCarthy , Knowsley ward candidate for 2014 said "Ormskirk Civic Hall has been an important part of Ormskirk since its opening in 1899 as a Drill Hall and its great to hear these exciting new plans for the future."
Transferring Ormskirk Civic Hall to a community organisation was agreed by Council in October 2012 and the Engine Rooms was selected after the Council interviewed three worthy candidates. Management and the operation of the hall has been handed over to the Engine Rooms under a long term lease agreement with the Council.
Monthly comedy nights are planned at the Civic Hall. Other exciting shows that have been booked include live wrestling events, a Northern Soul party, several dances and ballroom events, and some musical acts. These are in addition to the local theatre companies already running productions.
For more details on events go to www.ormskirkcivichall.info or www.ormskirkcomedy.co.uk and keep an eye out for further announcements.
The Engine Rooms are forming partnerships with local business to help them deliver a first-class service for weddings and parties at the Civic Hall. The organisation is also investing in new audio and lighting systems, which will be welcomed by community groups using the hall.