Facing uncertain future - Fairfield Halls returns all its pianos

 

Posted on June 3, 2020 by insidecroydon

​

The Fairfield Halls had the removal men in yesterday – taking away the arts venue’s pianos.

 

The scene outside the Fairfield Halls stage door yesterday, as the pianos are removed

Inside Croydon understands that the pianos – nine in total, including two grand pianos – have been returned to their makers after the venue operators, BHLive, cancelled the five-year hire agreement at short notice and with minimal compensation.

​

The removal, captured on video by a local resident, adds to increasing concerns for the Fairfield Halls’ immediate future. BHLive have failed to respond to Inside Croydon’s enquiries about their contingency plans for reopening after the coronavirus lockdown.

​

The Halls only reopened last September, after a £43million (at least) refurbishment that had seen the venue closed for more than three years. Disappointing initial tickets sales – with the venue operating at barely one-quarter capacity – led to the Fairfield’s artistic director, Neil Chandler, quitting the job in February. Continue reading →