Topic ID 1304
currently the Castle Hall website is showing booking for 1 original artist and 3 tribute bands. Does that say more about us - or the booking policy of the town council?
Reply ID 15717
hey I was just talking about this to one of my work colleagues yesterday! I am looking for a job and said that my ideal career would be to take over the running of that place and make it something......I mean how many people say "what are we doing this weekend lets see what on at the castle" do they heck, its always a load of rubbish. Never any decent theatre, plays or music. Its got so much potential, it was built with accoustics in mind and holds up to 500 people in one go and what a fantastic location right in the centre of town amongst the resturants and pubs! I'll stop before I bore you all to death with the detail, but I might just send my cv and a covering letter to the council [;)]
Reply ID 15718
quote:Go for it - what have you got to loose? Wouldn't expect a fantastic salary though!
Originally posted by Nicky
hey I was just talking about this to one of my work colleagues yesterday! I am looking for a job and said that my ideal career would be to take over the running of that place and make it something......I mean how many people say "what are we doing this weekend lets see what on at the castle" do they heck, its always a load of rubbish. Never any decent theatre, plays or music. Its got so much potential, it was built with accoustics in mind and holds up to 500 people in one go and what a fantastic location right in the centre of town amongst the resturants and pubs! I'll stop before I bore you all to death with the detail, but I might just send my cv and a covering letter to the council [;)]
Reply ID 15720
quote:Do it! [8D]
Originally posted by Nicky
hey I was just talking about this to one of my work colleagues yesterday! I am looking for a job and said that my ideal career would be to take over the running of that place and make it something......I mean how many people say "what are we doing this weekend lets see what on at the castle" do they heck, its always a load of rubbish. Never any decent theatre, plays or music. Its got so much potential, it was built with accoustics in mind and holds up to 500 people in one go and what a fantastic location right in the centre of town amongst the resturants and pubs! I'll stop before I bore you all to death with the detail, but I might just send my cv and a covering letter to the council [;)]
Reply ID 15721
Must agree Nicky i think ive been 3 times in 5 years,sack the pompus fools that say what we want and give us someone who knows what we want!..VIVA LA RESISTANCE..[;)]
Reply ID 15722
quote:I have rarely been so angry at a posting on this site Nicky.[:(!] What in your humble opinion constitutes 'decent theatre, plays or music'?
Originally posted by Nicky
Never any decent theatre, plays or music. I'll stop before I bore you all to death with the detail, but I might just send my cv and a covering letter to the council [;)]
Reply ID 15723
Hear hear Dillon! [:(!] Nicky, Did you bother to see "Amadeus" or "Steel Magnolias" or "Hertford Theatre Week" recently to mention just three or did the word 'amateur' put you off? I cannot believe you can actually have seen any of these, (or similar) productions at Castle Hall or you couldn't make the comments you make.
Reply ID 15724
I think it is good that they have Ware Operatic and Hertford Dramatic shows, what I really object to is how often this very costly resource is empty[:(!]
Reply ID 15725
quote:Now ain't that the truth!
Originally posted by wizkid
I think it is good that they have Ware Operatic and Hertford Dramatic shows, what I really object to is how often this very costly resource is empty[:(!]
Reply ID 15729
quote:Is it that the hall does not cater for your particular needs? I would be happy to see most of the current events remain on the schedule and then add a few more. I would hate to see it turned into a facility that lost it's community feel.
Originally posted by Nicky
hey I was just talking about this to one of my work colleagues yesterday! I am looking for a job and said that my ideal career would be to take over the running of that place and make it something......I mean how many people say "what are we doing this weekend lets see what on at the castle" do they heck, its always a load of rubbish. Never any decent theatre, plays or music. Its got so much potential, it was built with accoustics in mind and holds up to 500 people in one go and what a fantastic location right in the centre of town amongst the resturants and pubs! I'll stop before I bore you all to death with the detail, but I might just send my cv and a covering letter to the council [;)]
Reply ID 15731
quote:I don't think the suggestion was to stop the current activities, but to make them more accesible to all. Use an under used venue and give more of a variety for all.
Originally posted by dytter
Hear hear Dillon! [:(!] Nicky, Did you bother to see "Amadeus" or "Steel Magnolias" or "Hertford Theatre Week" recently to mention just three or did the word 'amateur' put you off? I cannot believe you can actually have seen any of these, (or similar) productions at Castle Hall or you couldn't make the comments you make.
Reply ID 15733
quote:No, the suggestion made was, and I quote.... "Never any decent theatre, plays or music. " So not true....
Originally posted by Tiggerquote:I don't think the suggestion was to stop the current activities, but to make them more accesible to all. Use an under used venue and give more of a variety for all.
Originally posted by dytter
Hear hear Dillon! [:(!] Nicky, Did you bother to see "Amadeus" or "Steel Magnolias" or "Hertford Theatre Week" recently to mention just three or did the word 'amateur' put you off? I cannot believe you can actually have seen any of these, (or similar) productions at Castle Hall or you couldn't make the comments you make.
Reply ID 15742
Its an opinion..freedom of speach.[B)]
Reply ID 15744
Freedom of speech and opinion must be upheld in a free society. When however people make statements 'always a load of rubbish' and 'never any decent theatre' there is likely to be an instant backlash. I would love to see a debate on what would be regarded as 'decent theatre' but the pitifully few responses to this thread suggest that people in hertford or more particularly on this forum are more concerned about their love/hate relationship with 4x4s than the cultural venue that is Castle Hall. [:)] As I understand it anyone can hire Castle Hall to stage events but it is not easy to make money given hire costs, publicity etc.
Reply ID 15745
Maybe some are not as 'cultured' as others ..... just an opinion.
Reply ID 15751
I agree with Dytter.. There are some exceptionally good shows put on at Castle Hall and tribute bands (although some are good) that are not my cup of tea. If you use the Castle Hall you will know from a technical point of view the acoustics are not very good, the shape of auditorium is an off shap hexagon, but I get the feeling Nicky doesn;t use the hall as a performer or audience member cos she would know the acoustics have always been awful! I agree there is a lot to be done, but until you watch productions don't knock em.. A lot of people write to the local theatre groups each year to tell them they preferred it to the professional productions because people give their hearts to it... If you want to make valid comments, go and be a critic for the Mercury perhaps and then base your comments on reality, not fiction...
Reply ID 15767
oh dear I seem to have made some enemies [B)].....not intended but I do intend to stick to my opinion. I feel the need to explain so sorry if this is a bit long and boring to read. Ewoowar and Dillon - no it does not cater for my individual needs, but saying that I was not thinking of myself and more majority of the towns folk. Such a venue could not cater entirely for each person living in the area it would not be possible, but it could do a damn site better! I really feel the events that are held at the Castle Hall insult the intelligence and culture of the people that live in the town. I am not against amateur plays and I am of the opinion that we have some very talented groups in the area. But, correct me if I am wrong.......for a such a huge capacity hall it is rarely full if open at all. This is not only a reflection of the quantity of good quality events but also on the marketing of such shows. Drama Queen - Believe me the accoustics in the Castle Hall really are the best around.........the problem is with the antique house sound system. With an up to date system the sound quality in the Castle Hall could be up there with some of the more famous theatres! I do enjoy theatre, musicals, comedies and plays........but I rarely visit the Castle Hall, the events that usually take my fancy are held at the Cambridge Corn Exchange or even Broxbourne Civic Hall. This is just my opinion and if you disagree so be it......freedom of speach as I believe someone else mentioned! For the record if I could choose just a few plays for my own delectation amongst them would be:- Shakespeare - A Midnight Summers Dream Oscar Wilde - A Picture of Dorian Gray John Steinbeck - all of them, starting with Of Mice and Men Arthur Miller - The Crucible Ok I'll shut up now before I go making you all fall to sleep! [:)] no hard feelings [;)]
Reply ID 15771
quote:Hi Nicky did you attend 'Twelfth Night' in March 2005? (comparable to 'Dream') did you attend 'Mice and Men' in April 2004? HDOS did Wilde's 'Ernest' just a few yars ago. Is was back in 1992 that HDOS performed 'Crucible' at Castle Hall but more recently COPS presented an excellent prduction of 'Death of a Salesman' 2002? in Balfour St. and HDOS performed 'View from the Bridge' at Bentley House. At the same venue they are presenting Millers 'the Price' in April 2006. If you have not attended the above shows, I cannot see how you can stand by your opinions 'always a load of rubbish' and 'never any decent theatre'. I have often heard people say 'there's never anything on' but do they attend when quality drama is on?[;)]
Originally posted by Nicky
For the record if I could choose just a few plays for my own delectation amongst them would be:- Shakespeare - A Midnight Summers Dream Oscar Wilde - A Picture of Dorian Gray John Steinbeck - all of them, starting with Of Mice and Men Arthur Miller - The Crucible
Reply ID 15772
How easy is it to get a 500 seat venue, (let's face it, not particularly friendly on the eye once inside) packed with people, all eager to see the works of Shakespeare, Miller, Steinbeck and Wilde week on week, when they are struggling to do so in the West End. I mean, once set up for theatre productions, the seating and stage need to be deconstructed before something different can happen, thus meaning only short runs can take place. What would your plan be for the running of the Hall? What about the antique fairs or whatever it is they sometimes have there? What about the private functions in the evenings? What about the films?
Reply ID 15773
1992.....2004....oh and one in 2005, I think that makes my point. I was wrong to say never admittedly, I should have said only once a year. No I did not attend because a) did not know they were on (back to bad marketing point) and b)even if I did lets hope that I am around on the one day a year something good comes up. Even the ones you mentioned were not all at the Castle Hall. Yes I have seen most of the plays I mentioned, but not here no.....Manchester, Cambridge and London and many amatuer ones held at random halls (not proper venues). Sorry but I am not intending to have an arguement about this....as I said it is my opinion which I am entitled to, like it or lump it. Paul in answer to your questions.....there is another hall attached on the side of the venue for such events, failing that we have a disused corn exchange which could house the day to day stuff. It is perfectly easy to fill a 500 person hall, all it needs is good marketing and advertisment aimed at the right people.
Reply ID 15776
No arguement Nicky, my point is that when 'decent' theatre is on at Castle Hall many Hertford people (yourself included?) simply do not attend. I do not think this is down to marketing as surely everyone reads the mercury, the town is often inundated with posters, the library and tourist centre do promotions and Castle Hall does its own direct marketing. The direct marketing only reaches those people who bother to attend events in the first place of course.[:)]
Reply ID 15787
I read the Mercury as little as possible, I find it soul destroying.....but I do pick it up about once a month just to check out what is going on locally inc events. Going back to one of my original points, if there were more regular good quality events at the venue people would look to find out what was on. I check out other similar venues (as listed before) on a more regular basis then I do the Herford Castle, this is because I expect it to be poor and it usually is. The posters I very rarely see in town, but then I don't have to collect my pension at the Castle Offices and I don't feel the need to stare at stuffed animals on a regular basis, as for the library board it would probably take a week to sift through all the stuff on their message board.
Reply ID 15800
Thanks Steve, I have never heard of it before but it is now saved as a favourite and Oxfest has been added to their listings [:)]
Reply ID 15801
ha ha ha...........I rest my case! http://www.hertford.net/leisure/index.htm [}:)] T.Rextasy - is this related to a band my dad used to follow in his youth or is it related to porn? [;)]
Reply ID 15804
I agree with you that freedom of speech entitles you to your opinion. It also entitles me to say that you are wrong! [:)] If only you had seen Amadeus at Castle Hall last November or were able to see the current run of Sleuth at The Company of Players, you could not possibly say that there is nothing of quality on. I personally invite you as my guest to attend The Price at HDOS HQ in April. We don't advertise as it is a private club but guests are welcome. Join CoPs for £10 a year and see modern challenging theatre in your own home town at a charming venue. It's not all c**p you know. I also agree that CH is underutilised and I actually think the acoustic is pretty good, especially with the sound systems available now for the companies to use. Friends again? [:D][:D]
quote:
Originally posted by Nicky
I read the Mercury as little as possible, I find it soul destroying.....but I do pick it up about once a month just to check out what is going on locally inc events. Going back to one of my original points, if there were more regular good quality events at the venue people would look to find out what was on. I check out other similar venues (as listed before) on a more regular basis then I do the Herford Castle, this is because I expect it to be poor and it usually is. The posters I very rarely see in town, but then I don't have to collect my pension at the Castle Offices and I don't feel the need to stare at stuffed animals on a regular basis, as for the library board it would probably take a week to sift through all the stuff on their message board.
Reply ID 15821
Friends again [:)][:)] As long as it is not some plan to get me down a dark alley way so you and your HDOS mates can give me a good kick in [B)]. Will take you up on your invite, Thank You! only you might have to remind me nearer the time (I have a short term memory [;)]).
Reply ID 15826
Castle Hall have their own web site: http://www.eastherts.gov.uk/castle_hall/ You can also sign up to get a free six monthly programme posted to you on a regular basis.
Reply ID 15827
quote:Not of me. I would like to see a more varied schedule and some quality acts. Not that the current performers lack quality but it feels like Castle Hall is on the tribute band and 'twighlight of the career' performers circuit. There appears to be a tiering to the venues. Castle Hall is below Broxbourne Civic hall. Then above Broxbourne is the Gordon Craig and St Albans Arena. The next step up is a venue like Cambridge Corn Exchange. I believe Castle Hall should be able to take a step or two up. Perhaps the problem is with the booking policy. How are acts booked? Is there someone actively seeking performers and therefore charged with promoting the venue on the circuit? Or does the hall wait for performers to come knocking? It feels like we are being dished up what people believe we want. One way to change that is to promote the venue and book some quality acts. Promote those acts successfully to ensure a good attendance and the positive cycle begins. Acts will want to return to where they were received well and made money. And others will follow.
Originally posted by Nicky
oh dear I seem to have made some enemies [B)].....
Reply ID 15829
That is kind of what I was getting at.....only I think you are more the diplomat then me and put it in writting far better [;)]
Reply ID 15830
I have staged an event at Castle Hall a long time ago. It wasn't easy. I also tried to rent the Corn Exchange for a long term booking. However it seems that at that time the council were happy instead to give to a string of people who repeatedly flouted licensing regulations and got closed down.
Reply ID 15832
The Castle Hall is expensive to rent, even on a charity rate.......and there is always the hidden costs you find out about after the event i.e. electricity! I accept the place has to make money but I am sure it would make more if the prices were more affordable and there was less of a danger for the organisers to be out of pocket at the end of it.[V] The Corn Exchange is rubbish, it has no licencing or insurance, you have to pay for your own alcohol licence, music licence, entertainment licence. The place needs more toilets and a lick of paint, it does not really need a heap of money spent on it to make it user friendly...........and I am sure with again the right advertising more people would rent the venue thus making the place more profitable then it is at the moment.
Reply ID 15844
And the quirks like having to approach a separate organisation who own the external signage in order to display the name of your event.
Reply ID 15845
Nicky.............what sort of act would you consider putting on? Music, drama, comedy.......other?
Reply ID 15847
ah well......I had to do a quick 5min research: Jongleurs on the road Jerry Springer the Opera Pride and Prejudice The Producers La Boheme Shakespeare 4 Kids Independant Ballet Wales Russian State Philharmonic Orchestra Sowento Gospel Choir The Hollies Steeleye Span Gold Frapp Belle & Sebastian NME Shockwaves Tour Bearing in mind that list took me 5mins I think I have covered young kids, teenagers, middle aged and older generation. Classical, pop and rock, theatre, ballet, religious and classic productions. No guarantee's however that they would all perform at the Castle Hall you understand, only that they are already listed either at Broxbourne Civic Hall or the Cambridge Corn Exchange, so there is a good chance they would if they were approached in the right manner. Bearing in mind that I have never run such an establishment before and this list did take me only 5mins, I think proves that it is not brain surgery. I think it would be possible to mix these kind of acts with amatuer dramatics and local musical groups, giving the people of Hertford more variety of entertainment on their doorsteps.
Reply ID 15848
I think Independant Ballet Wales were at Castle Hall last year. (I may be wrong). Perhaps they stepped up a tier or two!! Some of these acts sound interesting.....(I was at the Corn Exchange in Cambridge last November and was going to get tickets for Goldfrapp)...............but Castle Hall might not have the capacity to entice them. The Cambridge Corn Exchange seats the following..... Standard Size Stage 1462 Middle Size Stage 1342 Large Size Stage 1256 Whereas Castle Hall seats 500. This is because of the mezzanine and balcony in Cambridge. the ground level seating in Cambridge is only about 50% more than Castle Hall (746 vs 500). One point of interest is Castle Hall states the following capacities; Banquet - 340 Weddings - 280 Boxing/ Wrestling - 500 Stage Shows - 500 Dance - 280 So, is a live band a 'dance'? And is that really 280 people only? I believe a few years ago there was amove to increase the seating limit to 750 an the standing to 1,000. if this could be done the potential for the hosting the more popular acts becomes more viable. Could this be resurrected?
Reply ID 15849
quote:If it's a more "formal" dance, then the dancefloor will need plenty of space as opposed to a packed pit in front of a live band. If you see what I mean. Also, don't have much of an opinion on this thread really, but Malvern Theatre (don't know the capacity) regularly sells out with touring productions - normally with very well known casts. There is a membership scheme now where people can get reduced price tickets, that's very popular, too (though it include the cinema as well). Is this along the lines of what maybe should be being looked at?
So, is a live band a 'dance'? And is that really 280 people only?
Reply ID 15850
I think the key to this thread is the CH has not been managed very well for years! Local theatre groups are endlessly trying to get people to attend their functions and a lot of people make sweeping judgements that all amateur is bad. Hertford people can be lazy in coming forward about things and never say what they do want to watch. But its so hard when noone gives feedback and the management at CH are not easy to deal with!!! I watch a lot of local groups in Hertford, WGC, Potters Bar and ocassionally Harpenden. You have to get off your Harris as the expression goes. But please support our services, the council uses any excuse to stop providing public venues and it would be a catastrophe that a county town has no venue for theatre work, live music acts or comedy...
Reply ID 15851
well said drama queen. castle hall - use it or lose it!
Reply ID 15855
quote:I agree
Originally posted by Drama Queen
I think the key to this thread is the CH has not been managed very well for years! Local theatre groups are endlessly trying to get people to attend their functions and a lot of people make sweeping judgements that all amateur is bad. Hertford people can be lazy in coming forward about things and never say what they do want to watch. But its so hard when noone gives feedback and the management at CH are not easy to deal with!!! I watch a lot of local groups in Hertford, WGC, Potters Bar and ocassionally Harpenden. You have to get off your Harris as the expression goes. But please support our services, the council uses any excuse to stop providing public venues and it would be a catastrophe that a county town has no venue for theatre work, live music acts or comedy...
Reply ID 15877
quote:Probably did, I thought about leaving out ballet as it is an event which is staged at the CH about once a year but it could be on more and with a bigger audience if it was advertised/marketed properly.
Originally posted by Ewoowar
I think Independant Ballet Wales were at Castle Hall last year. (I may be wrong). Perhaps they stepped up a tier or two!!
quote:Agreed, it might not be possible to stage a band like Goldfrapp, but I question if it has ever been looked into? and how popular would that be? I think that it would be a sell out show!
Some of these acts sound interesting.....(I was at the Corn Exchange in Cambridge last November and was going to get tickets for Goldfrapp)...............but Castle Hall might not have the capacity to entice them. The Cambridge Corn Exchange seats the following..... Standard Size Stage 1462 Middle Size Stage 1342 Large Size Stage 1256
quote:Was talking to my Dad about this tonight, he says the CH used to hold 750 as a standing crowd.....for Oxfest I was told 500 but later when we ran out of tickets I was told the licence actually caters for 600. Even so I think this is plenty to cater for some better quality acts, and whats the problem with selling out of tickets and making it a "buy your tickets in advance" venue?
Whereas Castle Hall seats 500. This is because of the mezzanine and balcony in Cambridge. the ground level seating in Cambridge is only about 50% more than Castle Hall (746 vs 500). One point of interest is Castle Hall states the following capacities; Banquet - 340 Weddings - 280 Boxing/ Wrestling - 500 Stage Shows - 500 Dance - 280 So, is a live band a 'dance'? And is that really 280 people only? I believe a few years ago there was amove to increase the seating limit to 750 an the standing to 1,000. if this could be done the potential for the hosting the more popular acts becomes more viable. Could this be resurrected?
Reply ID 15879
quote:Nicky, go for it.......... It's about variety Plays - absoulutly - you have picked the best History of Guns could be a good move for diversity (Don't know them of course)[;)]
Originally posted by Nicky
oh dear I seem to have made some enemies [B)].....not intended but I do intend to stick to my opinion. I feel the need to explain so sorry if this is a bit long and boring to read. Ewoowar and Dillon - no it does not cater for my individual needs, but saying that I was not thinking of myself and more majority of the towns folk. Such a venue could not cater entirely for each person living in the area it would not be possible, but it could do a damn site better! I really feel the events that are held at the Castle Hall insult the intelligence and culture of the people that live in the town. I am not against amateur plays and I am of the opinion that we have some very talented groups in the area. But, correct me if I am wrong.......for a such a huge capacity hall it is rarely full if open at all. This is not only a reflection of the quantity of good quality events but also on the marketing of such shows. Drama Queen - Believe me the accoustics in the Castle Hall really are the best around.........the problem is with the antique house sound system. With an up to date system the sound quality in the Castle Hall could be up there with some of the more famous theatres! I do enjoy theatre, musicals, comedies and plays........but I rarely visit the Castle Hall, the events that usually take my fancy are held at the Cambridge Corn Exchange or even Broxbourne Civic Hall. This is just my opinion and if you disagree so be it......freedom of speach as I believe someone else mentioned! For the record if I could choose just a few plays for my own delectation amongst them would be:- Shakespeare - A Midnight Summers Dream Oscar Wilde - A Picture of Dorian Gray John Steinbeck - all of them, starting with Of Mice and Men Arthur Miller - The Crucible Ok I'll shut up now before I go making you all fall to sleep! [:)] no hard feelings [;)]
Reply ID 15918
ha ha.......the history of guns, I have yet to see them play but I hear they are very good! [;)]
Reply ID 15919
quote:Check out rainbow-moon.com and the links. You may not hear a lot after your ears suffer damage. Another thought for the Folkies - nothing like I ever expected. Show of Hands - always include Cambridge Corn Exchange in their UK tours Keep plugging at it[:)]
Originally posted by Nicky
ha ha.......the history of guns, I have yet to see them play but I hear they are very good! [;)]
Reply ID 15952
I'm making no comments on events here as I have seen none. But the thread spurred me to look at what’s on and perhaps go and take a look and book some tickets. Tried Castle Hall last Thursday, rang out to voice mail. Ditto Friday. Left a message this Monday. Now Wednesday and heard nothing, no-one called back. Perhaps some of these shows and events would sell out better if they made it easier to actually purchase tickets or even speak to someone? [:(!]
Reply ID 15955
Avarice, I couldn't agree more... Castle Hall sells tickets for a drama company I know of and they certainly do not make it easier to get the punters in. If it's not too strong to say so, there is also the impression of a lack of professionalism when ringing up to book and as this is the first point of contact a client has with a company, it's very important that the first inpression is a good one! Castle Hall is a terrific venue. Once you get through the doors (the outside is most unimaginitive) I think the hall and facilities are impressive. You should see the lack of wing space and proper dressing rooms at venues in other nearby towns! Not to mention the fly tower.... As Dillon says, use it or lose it! [:(!][:(!][:(!]
Reply ID 15975
just out of interest..what is the problem with increasing the capacity at CH for standing shows? 600 is silly, there's room for over a 1000 easy. im guessing some kind of fire exit problem but i dont know...Overcoming this problem could be the key. I think what really seems to be a problem is the CH reputation. people don't look for things there as they don't expect anything good to be on even wen there is. If you could get a few good bands in there in quick succession, the reputation would, i think, be greatly improved...
Reply ID 16034
I would guess the capacity is limited by Health and Safety considerations - number of exits, toilets etc. You might physically get 1000 people in there but if the fire brigade says thats too many to evacuate in good time then they wouldn't get insurance.
Reply ID 16170
Finally, tickets bought today - calls never returned though, had to go in person.
Reply ID 16458
nicky,we cannot have rock, rock, rock,all the time,as some of us love amateur dramatics extra.but you are right it is a crying shame, as this place as you say, has the location and is a good venue. although overpriced to hire.I must admit that the last two oxfests have been superb, and long may this continue,especially for the cause. Go 4 the job gglg
Reply ID 16522
quote:agreed.....I do enjoy rock music, hence Oxfest. But you can enjoy more than one style of entertainment and I do enjoy a good play [:D] although I admit I do usually venture into London for this my favourite being the Donmar Theatre.....I see Caligula here it was the best production I have ever seen.
Originally posted by glees
nicky,we cannot have rock, rock, rock,all the time,as some of us love amateur dramatics extra.but you are right it is a crying shame, as this place as you say, has the location and is a good venue. although overpriced to hire.I must admit that the last two oxfests have been superb, and long may this continue,especially for the cause. Go 4 the job gglg
Reply ID 17256
this is the worst month EVER for music in Hertford: http://www.eastherts.gov.uk/CastleHall/Events/Calendar/June/index.htm !!
Reply ID 17261
Yes, Castle Hall is rubbish (Oxfest excepted) but, like, who cares? There's got to be somewhere for old people to watch boring stuff so leave them to it. [;)] Meanwhile, Hertford boasts the Little Theatre in Balfour Street for excellent am-dram and the Marquee Club in Railway Street which, in its collaboration with promotors The Strange Place Club, is bringing national breaking bands to our town. [8D] And it's not just indie noise for kids in skinny jeans - on Saturday, the Feeling were third on the bill for a fiver! [The Feeling are all over Radio 1, Radio 2, Virgin and XFm with their Guilty Pleasures esque, Supertramp-inspired melodic sound.] So while I agree that the Castle Hall is badly run and could be improved, at least there are other venues with something to please most punters in our town.
Reply ID 17262
Right. Enough of this. Castle Hall IS NOT rubbish! You have to be choosy but there is a local society which has presented AWARD WINNING plays two years running! HD&OS productions of Steel Magnolias in 2004 and Amadeus last November were terrific productions and I would have money on it Rachel, that you saw neither. Castle Hall HAS to sort out it's box office problems but the theatre is terrific to work in. If you saw either of the two aforementioned plays and thought they were "rubbish" then you are entitled to that opinion. If you didn't, then please don't label everything at Castle Hall rubbish as that opinion will be challenged in the strongest terms.[:(!][:(!][:(!]
Reply ID 17263
quote:Now that is funny [:D]
Originally posted by ridley
this is the worst month EVER for music in Hertford: http://www.eastherts.gov.uk/CastleHall/Events/Calendar/June/index.htm !!
Reply ID 17264
It's good to see these guys back in May..... http://www.mugenkyo.com/
Reply ID 17266
I'm not having a go at the Castle Hall (I don't want to push dytter up to four angries). [;)] However, I think the discussion raises an interesting point about tribute bands in general. Undoubtedly they are entertaining, but where did they suddenly come from and why are they so populous? Whatever happened to originality? It seems to me that we are complacent as a society if we have to rely on this sort of 'nostalgia' as a safety net. What happened to taking risks? What happened to experimentation? (even if it's rubbish). How do we prevent stagnation? [?]
Reply ID 17267
Let's not go off-topic now