Square Chapel is a small to medium scale performing arts centre with a diverse programme of c.160 live events per year and a successful community outreach and education programme. The organisation has also built Orangebox, a £4m young people’s centre with a range of creative facilities.
In 1988 six local people bought a semi derelict Square Chapel for just £25 with a vision to turn it into a vibrant arts centre for professional artists and the community. Years of neglect had taken its toll on the Grade II* listed building, which remained seriously threatened with demolition until it was bought by the Square Chapel Trust. Millions of pounds have been raised and countless hours of time and energy have been freely given to ensure Square Chapel survives. It is an amazing story of hard work and determination, which still continues.
After a capital development, in 2017 Square Chapel will have a brand new cinema with around 400 screenings per year and currently has an emerging film programme with screenings including golden oldies, the latest releases, cult classics and arthouse films as well as family favourites. Included in this programme is:
- 'Arts & Biscuits' - the latest arthouse films and classics with a hot drink and themed biscuits
- 'Other Rooms' - site specific screenings in unusual venues around Halifax while Square Chapel is closed for building works
- An artistic curated evening film season
- The I.Make.Film Festival at Orange Box young people's centre showcasing local film-making talent with film screenings, master classes and talks
- A young people’s film programming group at Orange Box young people's centre