A facelift for the Coliseum
THE Coliseum in Aberdare is to have a makeover thanks to a cash investment from the council.
The venue is one of the latest facilities to benefit from the three-year £200m RCT invest deal.
THE Coliseum in Aberdare is to receive a makeover thanks to major investment from Rhondda Cynon Taf Council.
Work is already under way which will see carpet replacements and redecoration of corridors, staircases and the Green Room, along with improved lighting, both internally and in the patrons’ car park.
The venue is one of the latest facilities to benefit from the three-year £200m RCTinvest programme.
Built in 1937, the Coliseum has been the home of live entertainment, both professional and amateur, for almost 80 years.
Situated in close proximity to Aberdare Park and a short walk or drive from Aberdare town centre, the Coliseum boasts a distinctive auditorium and it was at the theatre that Welsh rock legends Stereophonics, from Cwmaman, had their big break.
In March 1996, the band performed at the theatre sharing the bill with Catatonia – two months later they were the first artists to be signed by Richard Branson’s record label V2.
The Coliseum continues to produce a varied and packed programme of shows – drama, ballet, opera, comedy, light entertainment, music, childrens’ events, educational events and productions by local schools, community groups and amateur dramatic societies.
The venue also shows the latest blockbuster movies as part of its Digital 3D Cinema screenings.
The council says there will be no disruption to theatre-goers while works are being undertaken.
Updates will be provided via the theatre’s social media accounts and the council’s Twitter and Facebook feeds.
Cabinet Member for Environment, Leisure and Culture Coun Ann Crimmings said: “Investing in our assets is a key strategy for the Cabinet as we look to maximise their potential. This approach is working with leisure a good example with the improvements made to a number of leisure centres resulting in huge increases in the number of Leisure for Life members.
“We are proud of our iconic theatres which host productions from the West End while also supporting local theatre and performance groups, and I am sure this investment will be welcomed.
“Our programme of productions, which includes this year’s pantomime continues to attract people from all over RCT and beyond and the improvements being made will improve the experience for theatre goers and hopefully help to attract and retain new visitors while also demonstrating our commitment to supporting cultural activities in Rhondda Cynon Taff.”
Find out more at www.facebook.com/ColiseumTheatreAberdare