Help shape a developing proposal for Blackwood Miners’ Institute, bringing together arts, community, business and local knowledge.

What could the next chapter of Blackwood Miners’ Institute look like, and how could you be part of it?

With its proud heritage, established audiences and place at the heart of Blackwood, the Institute means a great deal to many people.

We’re bringing together organisations and individuals to explore how we can build on those strengths and develop a sustainable future for the venue. This event is an opportunity to hear our initial thinking, share your perspective and explore where we could work together.

Our starting point is clear: theatre, music, comedy and the performing arts should remain at the heart of the 'Stute.

Alongside that, we want to explore how more people could use and enjoy the building throughout the week and year. Opportunities could include creative workspaces, recording and digital media, film, gaming, skills development, business support and community activities, alongside hospitality and venue hire.

The aim is to support a thriving cultural and creative hub that celebrates its heritage, creates opportunities for local people and generates the income needed to sustain its work.

Why come along?

We want to hear what matters to you, what you think could work and what we need to consider.

The event will provide an opportunity to:

Hear the initial vision and thinking behind the developing proposal.

Share ideas, questions and practical considerations.

Meet others with an interest in the venue’s future.

Explore potential partnerships and involvement in the consortium.

You do not need to arrive with a finished idea or commit to joining the consortium. Your experience, perspective and local knowledge are valuable contributions.

Who is it for?

We’d welcome people and organisations involved in:

Local people with a passion for ther community.

Performing arts, culture and heritage organisations.

Creative industries, including digital technology and media.

Local business, enterprise and hospitality.

Education, training and skills organisations.

Community and voluntary groups.

We want to hear from artists, freelancers, venue users and people with a strong connection to Blackwood and the surrounding communities.

Help shape what comes next

This is an early conversation to help inform the proposal and identify where people could contribute. We want to understand what makes BMI special, where the opportunities lie and how different partners could help secure its future.

Book your place and join the conversation.

Date: 3rd November 2026

Time: 10am to 12pm

Venue: Libanus Lifestyle Centre, Libanus Road, Blackwood, NP12 1EQ

If you have any access requirements or would like to discuss attending, please contact hello@welshice.org.

Description supplied by the event organiser.