Cinema and comedy are now on the menu for visitors to a newly refurbished town hall in County Durham.
Following a major refurbishment last year, Durham County Council has been gradually reopening Bishop Auckland Town Hall from May, in line with government guidance, including launching a new café and gallery.
This week sees the launch of its brand-new cinema programme, with screenings every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.
From today, visitors can book tickets to a 4pm or 7.15pm showing of Dream Horse, starring Toni Collette, an inspiring true story of an unlikely racehorse bred by a small-town bartender. This is followed by The Father, starring Anthony Hopkins and Olivia Coleman, from Tuesday, 13 July.
The venue has a range of coronavirus secure measures in place, including reduced capacities and ticketing systems, to ensure groups remain socially distanced.
Meanwhile, the much-loved comedy club, Hilarity Bites, returns to the town hall on 16 July and features Roger Monkhouse, Aidan Hoatley, Jake Donaldson and host Dave Twentyman. Tickets cost £8 in advance or £10 on the door.
Cllr Elizabeth Scott, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for economy and partnerships, said: “We have waited a long time to open the newly refurbished theatre auditorium and we are delighted to finally announce the start of our cinema and comedy programme. We look forward to welcoming our loyal customers and new visitors back into the venue.
“People will also be able to enjoy to a wider programme of events and activities at the town hall over the coming months subject to the further easing of restrictions currently envisaged in the government’s roadmap and we look forward to meeting more visitors when we can. Hopefully, when they are able to come, they will make the most of our brand-new gallery space and sample the delights of the café menu during their visit too.”
Andy Fury, who regularly hosts comedy nights at the town hall, said: “I can not wait to get back on stage again. It has been a long year without hearing the sound of an audience laughing and having fun.
“Hosting at the town hall is always a fun night so I am looking forward to returning to Bishop Auckland and being part of another great bill there.”
For more information and to book tickets online, people should visit www.bishopaucklandtownhall.org.uk
