Heritage Open Days - The Town Hall Lives!

Description

A chance to see the interior of the Town Hall through the Civic Trust Heritage Open Days scheme. Built in 1841, and not used regularly since the 1950's. Experience the magic of Forkbeard Fantasy Film bringing you surreal installations and film in a fascinating setting.

Event Type

Performance, Exhibition, Historic/Local Interest

Disciplines

Installation/Conceptual, Photography/Film/New Media

Opening Times

Fri 7th	Sat 8th	Sun 9th	Mon 10th	Tue 11th	Wed 12th	Thu 13th	Fri 14th	Sat 15th	Sun 16th
closed	10am - 4pm	10am - 4pm	closed	closed	closed	closed	closed	closed	closed

Further Info

About Forkbeard Fantasy Film

A range of interesting, entertaining and interactive installations. The White Mare is an uncannily realistic looking life-size marionette, which can be operated via its numerous ropes by the visiting public.

She appeared in Forkbeard Fantasy’s show for The Royal Shakespeare Company ‘Complete Works Festival’ and currently in their national touring production “Invisible Bonfires”.

It was designed and constructed by Penny Saunders.

Other surprise automated exhibits will be lurking in the back rooms.

www.forkbeardfantasy.co.uk

About the Town Hall

Opened in 1842, it was always a privately owned building, designed by Richard Carver, architect of St Andrew’s Church and erected by Alexander Baring MP for Taunton. Its use varied from that of Assembly Rooms to Magistrates Court and it was the focus of social and public life in the town. There was a large balcony above the original portico from where newly elected MP’s were presented after General Elections! The building was bought by the Cooperative Group just after The Great War of 1914 – 18. The clock, which is wound twice a week, and the bell are owned by the Parish Council.

About Heritage Open Days

Heritage Open Days celebrates England's fantastic architecture and culture by offering free access to properties that are usually closed to the public or normally charge for admission. Every year buildings of every age, style and function throw open their doors, and here in Wiveliscombe to celebrate the start of the 10 Parishes Festival, we can visit three buildings which are importance to this town – Wiveliscombe Town Hall, St Andrew's Church and the Congregational Church. This is a once-a-year chance to discover hidden architectural treasures and enjoy a wide range of tours, events and activities which bring to life local history and culture. Free of charge and literally on people's doorstep, Heritage Open Days is an event for everyone, whatever their background, age and ability.

Co-ordinated nationally by the Civic Trust in partnership with English Heritage, the event thrives on the enthusiasm and expertise of local people. Thousands of volunteers from all walks of life share their knowledge and memories with some 850,000 visitors every year, making Heritage Open Days England's largest voluntary cultural event.

Venue Information

Address

Wiveliscombe Town Hall

The Square

Wiveliscombe

Somerset

TA4 2JT

For Venue Information

01984 624564

Directions

The town hall is situated in the Town Square. Entrance to the left of West Country Guns.

Parish

Wiveliscombe

Disabled Access

Poor

Other Facilities

There is a steep flight of stairs to access the Town Hall space

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