Stuart WoodCroydon’s Fairfield Halls, which has undergone a troubled development since it closed for refurbishment in 2016, has announced its official opening date as 16 September.
The multi-million pound venue is part of a £5.2bn regeneration project funded by Croydon Council. It aims to be one of the biggest arts centres in the UK, hosting music, comedy and other entertainment as well as conferences and events.
The venue is run by BHLive, an operator based in Bournemouth. It was originally supposed to be completed by June 2018, but has been pushed back several times.
Highlighted among the acts booked for the venue include comedy from Rob Beckett, Alexander Armstrong and Lenny Henry, an opening concert from resident orchestra London Mozart Players, and theatre shows including Cinderella and an adaptation of Sarah Waters’ The Night Watch.
New space The Recreational has a capacity of 750, and will be used for live gigs, conferences and private hire events.
Venue and artistic director for Fairfield Halls, Neil Chandler said, “BH Live is delighted to be custodians of this iconic venue. Working with our Croydon team, the local community and artistes we are so excited about giving visitors the best possible experience in South London’s largest arts centre.
“Built in 1962, and affectionately referred to as the younger sister to the Royal Festival Hall, our Phoenix Concert Hall was designed by renowned acoustician, Hope Bagenal OBE. This wonderful space has been refurbished to its former glory whilst maintaining its famous acoustic integrity.
“We look forward to welcoming visitors through the doors, whether it’s for an event, a concert, a cup of coffee whilst catching up with friends or just for a good look round to see what’s new.”