Wolverhampton Civic Halls turn 80: Top acts who have played, from David Bowie to The Prodigy - in pictures
As Wolverhampton Civic Halls marks 80 years this weekend, we take a look at some of the top acts which have graced its stage over the decades.
Completed in 1938, the Civic and the Wulfrun Halls were the city's first dedicated performance venues for music recitals, theatre productions and even film screenings.
When they first opened back in the 1930s, the buildings contained many innovative features such as the extensive use of the new futuristic metal ‘aluminium’.
The halls have been a much-loved venue for music and comedy over the decades and many have left ringing endorsements.
Manic Street Preachers said they ‘Love Wolverhampton Civic Hall' and it 'just has those rock and roll ley lines that pass through the venue'.
'What a gig'
Blur commented that the venues are 'unbelievable'; and Echo and the Bunnymen described the halls as ‘The best show and audience in the last 30 years. What a gig, what a city!’.
Councillor John Reynolds, cabinet member for city economy, said that the venues are a 'very special place'.
“Generations of Wulfrunians and music and comedy fans from across the UK have shared unforgettable memories here with international stars and the biggest bands," he commented.
“This weekend, the Civic is celebrating its 80th birthday and remains to this day hugely important to our city’s economic well-being.
“A thriving and vibrant Civic Halls - that continues to draw people from all over the country - is a key part of our vision for a successful city.”
The iconic halls are currently undergoing a major overhaul and are due to reopen in Autumn 2020.
