Making the Muni

The Muni Theatre, originally known as the Municipal Hall, opened in 1900. This versatile building also housed a public library and technical school. Over the decades, the theatre has kept Colne entertained through two world wars, countless pantomimes, and a wide range of musical genres, from jazz to heavy metal.

The theatre fell silent in April last year when scaffolding went up for major renovations. Allocated £1,563,300, the refurbishment project included new roofing, windows, heating, and lighting to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.

“With old buildings, the more you peel back, the more you reveal…”

While the work was initially expected to be completed by autumn 2023, the century-old building presented unforeseen challenges. As renovation teams peeled back layers, they discovered additional structural work was necessary to ensure the theatre’s longevity.

“With old buildings, the more you peel back, the more you reveal,” explained Frank Burkitt, the Theatre Manager. “It was decided that a complete renovation was needed. The auditorium, the Albert Room (formerly the Mini Muni), the bars, and the toilets have all been completely redone.”

A highlight of the renovation was finding the original paint colours and restoring the theatre to its original appearance from 124 years ago. Despite the extensive work, Frank is optimistic about the outcome. “Now we have a building that’s fit for purpose for hopefully decades to come.”

“It’s completely different from how it looked before. People who have been going to the Muni for years will be quite taken aback by the changes.”

Frank is keeping details of the finished result under wraps, wanting people to experience the transformation firsthand. The Muni Theatre’s grand reopening coincides with the Colne Rhythm and Blues Festival, but the official VIP opening is set for Thursday, September 5th. Local dignitaries, artists, and the mayor will preview the renovation at 5 pm, followed by a public event at 7 pm featuring drinks and a performance by local singer Russell Shaun. The event is free and promises to showcase the theatre’s new look.

Frank believes the refurbishment will impress long-time patrons. “It’s completely different from how it looked before. People who have been going to the Muni for years will be quite taken aback by the changes. It’s an incredible refurbishment.”

With the doors open again, the Muni has a busy season ahead, with events scheduled through 2025. The first major event is Gobbess, Naomi Wood’s one-woman show, on Saturday, September 14th, fresh from the Edinburgh Fringe. The show combines circus, poetry, and storytelling to explore creativity and resilience.

Frank is eager to bring new experiences to Colne. “I’m keen to get some new stuff into the Muni that people aren’t maybe used to. It’s something fantastic that Colne hasn’t necessarily seen a lot of before.” Other upcoming performances include a Bruce Springsteen tribute band, Sounds of Springsteen, and the popular Kate Bush tribute act, Cloud Busting. The theatre will also host the panto “Sleeping Beauty” from January 4th to 19th.

The Muni Theatre is not just for professional acts; it also welcomes community engagement. The Albert Room can be used for smaller gigs and community activities such as yoga classes and board game nights. “We’re really looking to put together as varied a programme as possible that reflects basically all tastes, varieties, styles, and genres,” Frank explains.

To explore the Muni’s full schedule or inquire about renting a space, visit https://www.themuni.co.uk/whats-on-at-the-muni/

NorthernLife Sep/Oct/Nov 24