Waterstones, New Street

Waterstones, New Street, is a beautiful listed building. Previously the Midland Bank, is has retained most of the original features and is a grand, open space. The stained glass ceiling and central staircase create an impressive focal point as people enter the building. During ArtsFest 2012 performances will take place from the balcony at the top of the central staircase, which creates a perfect stage area.

Venue Specific Information

Waterstones, New Street
(128 New Street, B2 4DB)

Availability:

Saturday 8th September: 10.30 – 17.00
Sunday 9th September: 12.00 – 16.00

(Please note that these times are provisional at this stage and may be subject to change).

Performance Area:

The balcony area is approximately 2.7 metres by 3.7 metres.

Equipment / Facilities Available:

- Vocal PA system

- 2 vocal microphones (Please note that the PA system can accommodate a maximum of 2 microphones)

- Tables & chairs

(Please note that this venue does not have any other equipment available and performers need to be able to link to this PA system, or be self sufficient and able to perform acoustically, or need to be able to provide any equipment they require themselves. Power sockets are available around the performance space for this).

(Please note that performers bringing their own equipment may need to be prepared to set this up before the first performance of the day and break it down / collect it after the last performance of the day, depending on the length of time the equipment takes to set up and break down. There will be secure locations within the branch to store any equipment or valuables).

Lighting:

- General store lighting

Staffing:

In addition to the stores duty manager and shop staff, an ArtsFest Volunteer Venue Officer will be in charge of the venue on behalf of ArtsFest and will liaise with all artists before the event and on the day. A member of store staff will be available to set up and operate the PA system if required, however please be aware that this person is not a qualified sound technician. Artists who wish to perform here should only require minimal technical support.

Additional Notes:

Changing facilities are not available at this venue however there will be secure locations to store equipment or valuables.

Please note that Waterstones, New Street is an open public retail space. Members of the public not watching performances will also be in the venue during performance times.

Venue Access:

For artists bringing equipment or instruments with them that they wish to drop off by vehicle, they will be able to do this by pulling up outside the staff entrance at the rear of the store on Stephenson Street. Space here is limited and artists will be asked to remove their vehicle as soon as they have unloaded. Disabled access is also at the rear entry of the store on Stephenson Street.