Audiences returned to The Core Theatre’s auditorium for the first time in 20 months as local acts and comedian Jasper Carrott took to the stage for a sold-out variety show.
The 336-seater auditorium was packed out on Sunday 4 May to watch an eclectic mix of acts for ‘We are Solihull’, which marked the grand reopening of the theatre.
It was the first performance in the main auditorium since August 2023 following completed remediation works to the roof, additional auditorium improvements and an upgraded Studio.
Acts included mixed choir Pop Voices, vintage vocal trio the Boogaloo Babes, cover band 2 Weeks’ Notice, and Morgan Brind in costume as a Pantomime Dame to celebrate the return of Pantomime, with Aladdin announced to begin in December.
Building on the success of the event, the theatre is gearing up for another sold-out show on Friday 9 May as one of Ireland’s most acclaimed and influential folk and traditional bands, The Fureys, take to the stage.
That is followed quickly by the return of West End productions to the heart of Solihull as four National Theatre Live cinema screenings begin, starting with ‘The Importance of Being Earnest’ on Thursday 15 May.
Councillor Wazma Qais, Cabinet Member for Communities at Solihull Council, said:
“The Core Theatre is a hugely important part of our town centre, so the return of performances to the main auditorium is fantastic news for Solihull, the region’s cultural sector, and the many acts who use the theatre to showcase their talents.
“We are Solihull was a wonderful curtain raiser and begins what is shaping up to be a busy year ahead at the theatre with a diverse and exciting calendar of shows and performances already lined up, with more to come.”
Beloved local comedian Jasper Carrott surprised audiences as the special guest performer at ‘We are Solihull'.
Speaking on the Theatre’s return, Jasper Carrott said:
“It is an essential part of the community of Solihull. Theatre is an essential part of any community and The Core means there is somewhere for people to learn their trade, to create a local atmosphere, and to bring people together. It has been sadly missed.”
‘We are Solihull’ was hosted by The Mayor of Solihull Councillor Shahin Ashraf MBE to celebrate her year in office, bringing together the best musicians and performers that Solihull has to offer.
Proceeds raised an incredible £10,000 for the three Mayoral Charities: Marie Curie, OASIS Mental Health Support (formerly Solihull Mind), and Social Life Opportunities (SoLO) – which supports children, young people and adults with learning disabilities.
The Mayor of Solihull, Councillor Shahin Ashraf MBE, said:
“We are Solihull was a fantastic evening and I would like to say a huge thank you to the talented local acts and our special guest Jasper Carrott for putting on a terrific show.
“To serve as the 71st Mayor of our wonderful borough has been a huge privilege and We are Solihull was a brilliant way to close the year, raise money for three local charities which are close to my heart, and welcome audiences back to The Core Theatre’s main auditorium.
“Thank you to everyone who came out to support We are Solihull and The Core Theatre.”
To view the full programme of events or find out more about hiring The Core Theatre, visit www.thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk or sign up to the theatre’s newsletter.