Upfront Arts Venue

Upfront Arts Venue

Upfront Arts Venue is a multipurpose arts centre that hosts a variety of unique experiences, for example there is an art gallery, a puppet theatre along with accommodating live music. They are located in a rural area just outside of Penrith. Therefore making it quite unique to and more creative than a typical art centre. The buildings themselves are transformed 17th century farm buildings, which offer outdoor seating and quiet spaces. Due to the location arriving via car is most suitable and they offer an onsite car park right outside the main entrance. The parking further includes wheelchair parking spaces and level access to the venue.

Upfront Arts’ gallery is created to feel more relaxed then a traditional city centre. With a heavy  focus on rotating exhibitions and themes through the year. They have a large focus on supporting local Cumbrian artists and independent creators. Its gallery also sells some art work and crafts in a small gift shop, allowing a marketplace for smaller and independent artists.

Additionally, a large separator with Upfront Arts is the puppet theatre. There is only a limited number of puppet theatres in England. Upfront uses the puppet theatre for live performances, that include children shows storytelling and a range of workshops. The theatre is somewhat small, subsequently making the shows more immersive and interactive. Further they host a collection of puppets and performance to give people more information on puppetry and it’s history. Finally there is an onsite café that prepares food onsite making it fresh and local. Upfront arts café accommodates for dietary needs, such as serving gluten free and vegan options. This café is directly connected to the gallery and gift shop making it convenient for customers.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair friendly entrance and doors.
• Level parking directly outside the entrance.
• Accessible toilets
• Baby changing facilities
• Step free around the café and gift shop.
• Theatre has wheelchair spaces.

Find out more and see prices for Upfront Arts Venue on their website.

Discover more venues in the Penrith area on Eric’s Atlas.