AS ARTRIX gets set to reopen tonight for the first time in three years, it has been confirmed the parking for theatre-goers will be free.
This evening, America’s Got Talent winner – ‘Paul Zerdin – Puppetman’ – will be taking to the stage at 7.30pm after a lot of hard work behind the scenes getting the venue ready.
When the centre was open previously, there was criticism of charges implemented by HoW College which owns the car park.
The criticism was mainly because fees had to be paid for via an app and there were no machines for a cash or contactless card option. This, many said, excluded some, especially older people who may not have smart phones.
The Standard had been contacted by people asking about the the situation surrounding car parking charges since we revealed deal between the centre and The Core Theatre in Solihull.
Following the discovery of RAAC concrete in The Core’s main auditorium, the venue has temporarily moved some of its shows to Artrix while the issue is resolved.
We had it confirmed this week that parking would be free to theatre-goers during the temporary hire period.
A HoW College spokeseperson said: “The college is pleased to see the return of activity within Artrix following the temporary hire to Core Theatre Solihull.
“During this temporary hire period an agreement has been made, on behalf of Core Theatre Solihull, with the college and its car parking provider, to cover the parking so that it is free for theatre patrons.”
Bromsgrove Community Arts volunteers ‘ready to welcome crowds’
Following the appeal for volunteers for front of house and to work behind the bar, Bromsgrove Community Arts (BCA), more than 200 people came forward.
Some of those volunteers are currently preparing for this evening’s show.
Kyle Daisley, the chair of BCA, told the Standard: “It’s looking really nice – both the auditorium and the bar – The Core is happy, we’re happy.
“250 tickets have been sold for tonight’s performance and there are only a few left.”
He thanked Backdoor Promotions which has also helped get everything up-and-running.
“We are getting to grips with what needs doing and by the end of tonight, we should know what else needs doing, going forward.
“Everyone is really excited to see Artrix back.”
What’s up next?
Midlands folk group ‘Quill’ are due to perform tomorrow evening (Friday) – tickets for that are nearly cold out.
And Shrek the Musical will be performed at Artrix by St Augustine’s Musical Theatre Company from Tuesday to Saturday (November 14 to 18).
Visit thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk/whats-on for more information and tickets.
