Second auditorium opens at BEAM Hertford

BEAM Hertford have unveiled their second auditorium and stage, marking a significant expansion of the town's new entertainment complex.

The new performance space will allow BEAM to offer an even greater variety of shows, including innovative productions, community performances and emerging artists.

The opening was attended by key stakeholders and project partners, including GPF Lewis, Bennetts Associates, Bristow Consulting, and Trison UK, all of whom played an instrumental role in bringing the project to life.

Local and district councillors also joined the celebration, recognizing the venue's growing role in enriching Hertford’s cultural scene and supporting local talent. Councillor Sarah Hopewell, Executive Member for Wellbeing, expressed her excitement for the future of BEAM's expanded offerings, saying: "I’m so pleased to see how this expansion of BEAM's offer will provide the community more opportunities to visit and use the venue. It's been incredible seeing how popular events have already been and I'm really looking forward to seeing what events will grace the screen and stage of Stage 2."

The newly developed Stage 2 has been made possible through a £325,000 investment from Hertford Town Council. Designed to be a flexible and accessible space, it features 140 retractable seats, allowing it to be fully customized for a wide range of events, from intimate performances and film screenings to workshops and community gatherings. This adaptability ensures the venue can cater to a diverse audience while encouraging greater participation from local creatives, schools, and independent production companies.

Councillor Ann Woodward, Chair of the Development and Leisure Committee, commented: "Hertford Town Council is delighted to fund Stage Two at BEAM, which is the perfect venue for local events and productions. This brand new, modern studio space is accessible for all and we are so looking forward to seeing how it will be used by the various community groups in Hertford, who are all so active and innovative in all their activities." 

The expansion of BEAM aligns with Hertford Town Council’s commitment to supporting local arts and culture, fostering community engagement, and investing in high-quality facilities that benefit residents and visitors alike.

The newly unveiled space promises to offer even more opportunities for cultural expression, entertainment, and social connection in the heart of Hertford.

:: East Herts District Council