The Poly team prepares to ensure a bright future for the much-loved community arts centre.

Like many arts facilities, The Poly is full of vigour and striving to return to a full programme after the closures caused by the pandemic. 

The venue's two galleries have been open since July, with exhibitions quickly getting back on track - including the popular Members’ Exhibition in the summer. Lockdown may have been a difficult time for many, but there is no denying that it resulted in some incredible artistic output from the community. 

During the months of closure, the Board took the opportunity to appoint surveyors to carry out health and safety checks on the Grade II listed building. During this consultation period it was determined improvements were needed before The Poly could be fully reopened. These works include upgrading technical equipment, such as lighting and electrics to meet current standards, repairs to the Main Gallery's ceiling and improvements to the dressing rooms, which are suffering from damp. As with many buildings of its age, The Poly was found to have an area containing asbestos, located backstage, which will be taken out in the ongoing works. Although air and fabric tests in the auditorium revealed no asbestos present, its professional removal will be a prudent safeguard going forward. Some of the planned works have already been carried out, with other essential works to be completed after Christmas. The aim is for the theatre to be open from early 2022, initially for an extensive programme of films. All other performances will continue to be held in the Main Gallery until the theatre is fully open. 

In the next couple of months, there is much to look forward to at The Poly with a number of events taking place in the lead up to Christmas – including a night of comedy with rising star Lou Sanders, a Christmas Fair and the return of hugely popular Near-ta Theatre Christmas.Time Show. The Poly Pottery is continuing to run its popular handbuilding and throwing courses, as well as offering a kiln firing service to the community. The Spring Gallery is busy each week hosting a series of exhibitions, while the Guild shop is offering an even greater selection of handpicked designs. 

The Poly is also pleased to announce that it will be teaming up with vibrant and innovative local business Wesup, who will be running a cafe and bar on the premises under their food and beverage brand Solskinn. There will be more news on this exciting development very soon. As always, The Poly wishes to thank its customers and members for their support. 

With its long legacy of being at the heart of the community, The Poly looks forward to ensuring a successful future for generations to come. 

ENDS: 1st November 2021