The Vale, a multi-use arts space for Tameside residents, has undergone refurbishments and become the Northern Carnival Centre of Excellence.

Improvements made to the 150-year-old building, a former textile mill on Micklehurst Road, have made the centre more accessible.  

Officially launching in September, the public can enjoy the thrill of carnival arts taught by resident organisations Global Grooves and Cabasa, or involve themselves in community events, cinema screenings, training programmes and live performances.  

Funding for the advancement project came from partner organisations, including Foyle Foundation, Heritage Lottery Fund, Sports England, Jigsaw Foundation and Power to Change.  

Global Grooves, the carnival arts company who run the Vale, also received £490,000 in funding from the Arts Council.  

Jen Cleary, Director North and Combined Arts at Arts Council England, added: "It’s exciting to see The Vale reopening following its redevelopment and I’m so pleased that the Arts Council’s Capital programme has supported the creation of the largest carnival arts creation centre in the Northwest of England championing new and ambitious Carnival companies and productions which will be enjoyed locally and across the country.  

“I look forward to seeing The Vale becoming a hub for creativity and participation in Mossley and enjoying the resulting programmes and activity.” 

The improved arts hub launches on September 10 and kicks off with a night of dance and New Orleans dance tracks brought to you by Mr Wilson’s Second Liners.  

On September 11, the band Honeyfeet are going to play their unique sound, blending folk, blues, pop, disco and jazz.  

Image: Leon Patel  Credit: Christian Dyson

Leon Patel, Chief Executive Officer at Global Grooves, added: “This is such a great way to launch The Vale as a live music venue. These world-class artists are coming to a small town in Tameside to share their fantastic music with our communities. That’s exactly what The Vale is all about. 

“We’re so excited by what we’ve achieved with the refurbishment. Featuring a custom-designed, flexible PA system, an environmentally conscious stage lighting system, a fully stocked bar and plenty of Carnival colour, the space is accessible and perfect for live performances of all kinds. We can’t wait to welcome you!” 

For more information on the programme of live events or to find out more, go to https://www.the-vale.co.uk/venue/the-vale

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