Neath's Gwyn Hall to reopen after fire with youth concert

A full-programme of events is scheduled after the Gwyn Hall reopens on 8 March

Neath's new Gwyn Hall will open next month more than four years after it was gutted by fire.

The curtain will rise on the £9m re-fit with a concert showcasing young talent from the area on 8 March.

It now boasts a theatre, 3D digital cinema, multipurpose studio as well as a cafe-bistro and interval bar.

The fire in October 2007 took hold just weeks before a previous refurbishment of the 125-year-old Victorian building was due to be completed.

Guests from organisations around Neath Port Talbot have been invited for a night of music, theatre, song and dance to celebrate the opening.

Respecting tradition

Council leader Ali Thomas said: "This council promised to rebuild this much loved building and it has been a long and complicated road.

"I would like to thank the public for their support during this time as the building work has developed over the past three years.

"We have respected the tradition and history of the building but we have been able to provide a truly modern arts and cultural venue which will inspire generations to come."

Those not attending the concert will be able to tour the building on 9 and 10 March.

A full programme of events has been arranged with the first performance being the musical "Full Monty" staged by the Melin Crythan Amateur Operatic Society.

Singer Cerys Matthews will also appear during April.

Coun Thomas added: "I am sure that once everyone sees the new Gwyn Hall they will be as proud as we are."