Alex Fice pays a visit to Stapleford’s very own arts centre, which is on a mission to become a bustling destination for cultural exchange
Stapleford Granary has been a stalwart landmark of the Gog Magog Downs for well over a century. Destroyed by fire in 1870, the old Bury Farm was rebuilt as a state-of-the-art Victorian barn used for storing grain, until that was gradually rendered obsolete by the introduction of modern industrial farm buildings from the 1950s onwards. The Association for Cultural Exchange (ACE) breathed new life into the building in 2010, when general secretary Paul Brooke Barnes bought the barn and had it converted into a stylish centre for the arts. Fast forward to 2020, in a bid to spread the philosophy of his father Philip – who founded ACE in 1958 to promote cultural exchange and international understanding – Paul invited freelance musician Kate Romano to take on the newly created role of CEO for Stapleford Granary. Despite an enormous financial hit during the pandemic, the Granary is now an established venue known for excellent music and community events, with sights set on becoming a bustling centre for Stapleford and beyond.
But what exactly is an arts centre, and what role should it play in people’s lives? It’s a question Kate has asked herself repeatedly since taking the reins nearly two years ago. “I wrote this blog shortly after becoming CEO, where I laid out what I thought an arts centre should be. It’s a place where art should be made: a facilitator, shelter, connector, a place for inspiring – and looking back now, I still stand by that,” says Kate. “We want the community to think of it as theirs, a sort of home from home. It should also inspire; there’s something about being in an arts centre that makes you think and behave differently, and when you leave you take a bit of that with you.”
An endless source of inspiration is provided by the Granary’s rich programme of musical events and artist exhibitions, updated regularly throughout the year. A professional clarinettist herself, one fundamental part of Kate’s job is to assemble a top-notch roster packed with performers of the highest calibre, with the help of Ian Buckle (co-artistic director for classical music) and Trevor Barlow (artistic director for jazz and folk). “We’re interested in fantastic music played brilliantly – and that’s what we’re programming,” she says. “We want our audience to trust us, so even if they don’t know the music, they know it will be a great evening.”
The summer schedule is full of rich pickings, from outdoor concerts under a stretch tent in the courtyard, to more intimate recitals in the upstairs concert hall. Plus, there are brand-new children’s workshops, including a Stone Age Stories puppet show led by the Theatre of Widdershins, followed by an optional cave-art print workshop on 19 June. Another highlight is Liz McGowan’s textile exhibition, running from 12 June until 22 July, with cloaks made from natural materials found on Norfolk’s tidelines, reed beds, salt marshes, rivers and barley fields. On the afternoon of 26 June, expect musical fireworks as sensational big band singer Matt Ford hits the courtyard to perform numbers from Broadway, Hollywood and the Great American Songbook. And on 16 July, don’t miss Sean Shibe, one of the most versatile and innovative classical guitarists around. “He’s off-the-scale good,” enthuses Kate.
One occasion you won’t want to miss is Stapleford Granary’s Village Day on 17 July – a free, non-ticketed event held in the courtyard and grounds of the Granary. After the success of last year’s inaugural show – which welcomed 800 visitors – this year is shaping up to be a hit. Find food and drink from Boho Kitchen, Fired Up Pizza and Ocean Tree Fish & Chips, a craft village showcasing local pottery, handmade paper, books and antiques, and headline act Mishra’s musical delights. It’s the perfect chance to explore the grounds and stumble upon hidden treasures – just wait until you discover the idyllic 30s orchard!
Kate is keen to underline that a steady evolution is taking place at Stapleford Granary, which will see the much-loved venue transform into a fully fledged arts centre in years ahead. In keeping with its origins, she hopes it becomes a destination for cultural exchange, where people can spend hours discovering all that’s on offer, leaving refreshed and inspired – and with an appetite to come back for more.
Book tickets at staplefordgranary.org.uk, where there’s also information on how to get involved, from renting practice rooms and artist workspaces to volunteering at events. Follow them on Twitter @SGArtsCulture and Instagram @staplefordgranary
