Brighouse Echo Published Date: 10 September 2009

By Maggie Woods

At the open day are Tracey Hindson, Amy Roche, Jonathan Wilby, Helen Wrigglesworth, Jackie Braddock and Martin Stead

THE curtain has gone up on a new era for amateur theatre in Brighouse with the Civic Hall reopening its doors to audiences after an 18-month refurbishment programme.

Brighouse Theatre Productions held an open evening to give members the chance to inspect the recently-completed work at the Civic Hall in readiness for their forthcoming show, the musical 'Oklahoma!' which will be staged from October 13 to 17.

President David Ellis said: "I am very impressed with the work done. The Civic Hall is now an asset to the community. If I have any reservations it is a pity that a little more thought has not been given to the hall's use as a theatre venue but we look forward to 'christening' the building with our new production."

Group chairman Richard Mitchell said: "The facilities are much better than before and I hope it will lead to the building being better used."

Brighouse Civic Hall closed in January 2008 and refurbishment work was hit by a number of setbacks which caused delays to the building's reopening. The 100-year-old building now houses Calderdale Council's Customer First service, a new lift and kitchen facilities, and improved meeting room. The main hall and dressing rooms have been redecorated.

During the opening evening, members also took advantage of the opportunity to view paintings, ceramics, glass and jewellery displayed by Harrison Lord, who are occupying the Civic Hall while work is carried out to their adjoining shop on Bradford Road. Photographer Steven Lord took pictures of the cast of 'Oklahoma!' for the show programme and publicity purposes