By Elliott West
Introduction
Situated in the heart of Ipswich, lies a truly spectacular piece of architecture. A building that often reminds me of being in a cathedral with its high ceilings and domed window arches. The place in question is the Corn Exchange. A venue that has had very close ties with snooker over the years, hosting the Tolly Cobbold Classic, a non-ranking event and sponsored by the local brewery, here between 1979 and 1984. A tournament that saw Alex Higgins win twice in 1979 and 1980, Graham Miles in 1981 and Steve from 1982 to 1984. An event organised by John Peachey and his son Mike Peachey, broadcast on Anglia Television.
History
The Corn Exchange building dates back to 1882 and became part of the town hall complex in 1972 when it was converted into a theatre at a cost of £800,000. Lying on the grounds of the old town hall, the building is an example of Renaissance architecture with a strong French influence and compliments the town hall, built-in 1868 in the Victorian style and designed by the Lincoln firm of architects Bellamy and Hardy at a cost of £16,000. The town hall was opened by the then-mayor, John Patterson Cobbold with a celebration that lasted three days and included a ball, attended by 400 ticket holders.
Has to be seen to be believed
Touted as one of East Anglia’s most prestigious venues, the Corn Exchange houses one of the largest and most adaptable areas, the Grand Hall. The Hall itself has a large stage, bar facilities and state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment. It also has a backstage area and dressing rooms. The building also has three other hireable spaces that include a vibrant reception area and two boutique cinemas with Cinema 1 having a capacity of 207 people and Cinema 2, 40 people.
The Corn Exchange is a key component of the Suffolk entertainment industry, providing a multi-purpose venue, suitable for large and small events. Whether it may be a play, concert, wedding or business conference, this is the place to hold it. With a large adjacent commercial kitchen, the Grand Hall can hold up to 1,076 people
This building impresses as soon as you approach it with its striking glass front and the words Corn Exchange emblazoned on the stonework above the main entrance. A grade II listed building that allows you to stand on your feet or sit down and caters for every taste. A stable part of the community since the 19th Century and now the home to unmissable live performance. A venue that has hosted the programme Question Time, various snooker exhibitions and will present the musical, Come What May, a tribute to the Moulin Rouge with Strictly Come Dancing dancer, Robin Windsor in April 2022.
