AUDIENCES returned to The Core Theatre’s auditorium for the first time in 20 months.
Comedian Jasper Carrott and acts from across Solihull took to the stage for a sold-out variety show.
The 336-seater auditorium was packed on Sunday (May 4) night 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.
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.”
Observer news editor, Ashleigh Osborne, was in the audience on opening night.
She said: “It was a wonderful nice celebrating the amazing talent we have in the borough.
“From dancers to magic acts, every performance was exceptional.
“It is great that The Core has reopened, and I’m sure the auditorium will be packed to the rafters with the new shows coming up this summer.”
We are Solihull was hosted by The Mayor of Solihull Councillor Shahin Ashraf 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 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.”
Building on the success of the event, the theatre is gearing up for another sold-out show 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.
To view the full programme of events or find out more about hiring The Core Theatre, click here.
