Blackfriars Theatre and Arts Centre facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Blackfriars Theatre and Arts Centre |
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The exterior from Broad Street
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| Location | Spain Lane, Boston, Lincolnshire, England |
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Listed Building – Grade II*
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| Designated | 27 March 1949 |
| Reference no. | 1389013 |
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Welcome to the Blackfriars Theatre and Arts Centre! This special place in Boston, England, is both a theatre and a community hub. It is built inside what used to be part of a very old, medieval friary. A friary was like a home for a group of religious people called friars.
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About the Building
The Blackfriars Theatre and Arts Centre is a very important building. It is a "Grade II* listed" building. This means it is a historic place that needs to be protected. The building has two floors. It was once the refectory, or dining hall, of a Dominican friary. The Dominican friars were a group of religious men.
The building was changed quite a bit in 1963. An eastern wall was rebuilt, and new windows were added. Inside, you can still see a staircase from the 1600s. It is not in its first spot, but it is still a cool old feature. The building is about 90 feet (27 meters) long. Its top floor used to be the main dining hall for the friars.
History of the Friary
The Blackfriars Friary was started sometime in the 1200s. The first time it was written about was in 1288. Records show that the friary had to be rebuilt after a fire. In the year 1300, 29 friars lived there.
Later, during a time called the "Suppression of the Monasteries," many religious buildings were closed. Parts of the Blackfriars Friary were even used to fix sea walls! The building that is still standing today was turned into a theatre in 1965.
A Friendly Ghost Story
Some people say that Blackfriars is haunted by a friar. This friendly ghost is said to hide sharp objects that theatregoers leave behind under the stage. It is a fun story that adds to the theatre's charm!
What Happens at Blackfriars Today?
The Blackfriars Theatre and Arts Centre is a busy place. In 1980, the centre got its first professional director. But today, local volunteers run and manage everything. They get help from a full-time theatre technician.
The centre has a theatre with 230 seats. It also has a foyer gallery where art is shown. There is a revue bar and an art studio too.
Past Activities
In the past, the arts centre offered many art classes. These included evening classes in drawing, screen printing, needlework, and photography. In the 1980s and 1990s, many artists worked there. They also had people who helped reach out to the community.
Current Activities and Groups
Many groups use the arts centre today. These include the Boston Playgoers and the BOS Musical Theatre Group. The Cutwater Theatre Group also performs here.
There is a very active Theatre Academy for children. Kids from 4 to 19 years old can join. Other groups also meet at Blackfriars. These include U3A, ballet schools, and Lithuanian Community Groups. You can even rent rooms for your own events!
The building hosts many different things. There are performances, workshops, and classes. It also has a changing art exhibition. This show usually features local artists and changes every month.
Local Radio Station
Stump Radio started at the centre. It got help from Tulip Radio in Spalding. Stump Radio broadcasted in July and August of 2006, and again in 2007. That station is now called Endeavour FM. It shares news, music, and community events with local presenters.
