It’s not all about sand sculpting, Scarborough offers many more treats for the artistically minded – whether you can draw or not!
Stephen Joseph Theatre
Established by theatrical pioneer, Stephen Joseph, the country’s first ever theatre-in-the-round company was launched in Scarborough’s Library Theatre in 1955. Stephen had seen the ‘theatre-in-the-round’ technique used in America and had been looking for a suitable venue to hold the unique staging arrangement since his return.
In 1978, Scarborough’s own ‘Round Theatre’, named after the pioneer himself, was constructed. The ‘Stephen Joseph Theatre In The Round’ was initially in Westwood until 1996, when ban old cinema in Westborough was converted into what is now known as the Stephen Joseph Theatre. They have been holding iconic theatre-in-the-round performances ever since!
Rotunda Museum
Staying with the round theme, Scarborough is home to the Rotunda Museum, one of the world’s first purpose-built museums.
“This unique circular building is an exhibit in itself – the interior, with its stunning trompe I’oeil ceiling and beautiful gallery, featuring a frieze showing the geology of the local coastline designed by Smith’s nephew,John Phillips, are remarkable”
The museum is famed for its unique Bronze Age skeleton, known as Gristhorpe Man. This exhibit is the UK’s best example of a tree burial, the skeleton was found buried within a tree trunk. Add to that a fossil festival, geology based exhibits and a dinosaur skeleton or two and you’ll soon see why a day out at the Rotunda is not to be missed!
Scarborough Art Gallery
Yet another beautiful, historic building in Scarborough; this Italianate villa houses the Scarborough Art Gallery. A trip here may be helpful to those who are new to the area, as the gallery displays a permanent collection of items specifically chosen to reflect the cultural heritage of Scarborough.
With additional touring collections, community exhibitions and evening events, this art gallery needs to be on your radar. Who needs a pint in a smelly pub when nights of elegant art, uplifting opera or antique period costumes are on offer?
Crescent Arts Studios
Hidden in the basement of the Scarborough Art Gallery, Crescent Arts Studios house resident artists, who regularly exhibit all kinds of creative mastery. The Crescent Arts team also offer a creative space for those budding artists among you. They hold many workshops, covering skills from printing techniques to etching, collage and bookmaking. It’s the perfect way to learn a new skill, or hone your existing talents.
“Training and support is provided whenever possible to assist artists in planning for and achieving their aims. Crescent Arts can provide modest financial support for training, research and development which at the same time enhances our artistic and cultural programme.“
Woodend Creative
This gallery works with local artists and craftspeople in Scarborough and North Yorkshire. Their work is presented alongside that of great artists, including David Hockney and Matthew Conduit.
Entrance is free so pop this one in your diary near Christmas time, as it’s the perfect place to find unique and impressive presents. The gallery also hold evening events featuring life music, inspirational speakers and talks by art experts.
The Grand Hotel
Look up when you’re strolling along the prom and you’ll see a magnificent yellow-stoned building towering over the harbour, The Grand Hotel.
Back in 1867, Scarborough saw the opening of the Grand hotel, the largest hotel in Europe at that time.The Grand was designed around the theme of time, with four towers – for each season, 12 floors – one for each year, 52 chimneys – one for each week and 365 rooms – one for each day of the year! This is a real must-see for those who appreciate intricate architecture.
Title image: http://www.bbc.co.uk/arts/yourpaintings/paintings/scarborough-9147
