Wingfield Barns, a centre that will be used for theatre, arts and the music, has been officially opened today (Friday 3 April 2010) by Mid Suffolk District Council.

Wingfield Barns is centred on a Grade II listed timber framed barn built around 1537 and can be reached by over 60,000 people within a 20 minute drive. The restored buildings sit well away from the road, in a naturally sloping site, with sweeping views to the South across a traditionally farmed landscape. The cluster of workshops, studio, barn, accommodation and offices are set in beautiful gardens.

Speaking at the opening, Councillor Diana Kearsley, portfolio holder for Cultural and Community Services said: “This new venture will provide something for everyone, as well as a perfect setting for the ‘performing arts’, Wingfield Barns have studios to enable school children and students a wonderful chance to be involved in practical art and related work, together with galleries for displaying their work.  Wingfield Barns is also an ideal setting for weddings and receptions, providing both elegant and practical accommodation. There is something for the whole family to do at Wingfield Barns.”

Mid Suffolk District Council obtained the site from the Arts Council for £1 last year. An Interim Management Board, made up of officers and councillors from the council and residents from the local community, has been set up to run the Barns for the near future.

A number of very successful events ranging from live theatre to art teacher training and including business conferences have already been run. A major programme of events has also been launched today, including art exhibitions, music, film and school visits. The venue is available for conferences, meetings and wedding receptions and provides a beautiful, quiet and affordable resource for the Waveney Valley and its local communities.

To find out more about Wingfield Barns and to see the full programme, please visit: http://www.onesuffolk.co.uk/WingfieldArts

-ENDS- 

Media contact:

Vicky Smy, Communications Officer, telephone: 01449 724850, email: vicky.smy@midsuffolk.gov.uk

Notes to editors:

1. Wingfield Barns became the home of Wingfield Arts and Music in 2000, housed in a £1.4m conversion of farm buildings next to Wingfield College. The vision for the project was to have galleries, workshops and artist residential accommodation in the beautiful and quiet countryside.