CULTURE vultures could soon be sitting pretty at a 150-seat amphitheatre at a South Tyneside museum.
Officials at Bede’s World in Jarrow are hoping to secure money from the Heritage Lottery Fund to create the new attraction at the museum’s Anglo-Saxon farm.
The amphitheatre would follow the natural contours of the farm site, off Church Bank, and work on the scheme could start soon, subject to grant support.
Mike Benson, director of Bede’s World, said: “The amphitheatre would be constructed on the existing bank on our farm and would allow visitors to overlook the whole site.
“We have made a £500,000 grant application to the National Heritage Lottery Fund for the amphitheatre, plus other work, and we hope to hear if we have been successful early next month.
“If the bid goes through, work could start very soon and the amphitheatre could be ready for late spring.”
The scheme is part of Bede’s World’s ambitious plans for 2013, which include everything from classic car shows to May Day celebrations, and from live music events to free lectures.
Bede’s World is also planning to introduce new digital technology, to enhance the visitor experience at the museum, which is based around the life and work of medieval scholar the Venerable Bede.
This Sunday will see the first live broadcast by the museum’s recently launched community radio station, Hive Radio, between 10am and 3pm.
Bede’s World has also obtained funding through The Pilgrim Trust in London for the appointment of new curator, Jane Lovett, who will be in charge of the museum’s important archaeological collection.
She said: “I’m excited about my move to Bede’s World, as it is such an inspirational site that has high aspirations.
“The collection is of local, national and international importance.
“I look forward to producing new displays and working with colleagues and the local community to improve access and to share the story of Bede.”
The Jarrow museum also recently announced plans to build a 20ft Anglo-Saxon ship, after being awarded a £30,000 development grant from the Headley Trust.
For more details about Hive Radio and the museum’s other attractions, visit Bede’s World website at www.bedesworld.co.uk or call 489 2106.
Twitter: @terrykelly16
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