I AM writing to add some thoughts to Margot Gibson's letter of November 30 regarding life in Bolton.
Despite being one of the biggest towns in the country, Bolton appears to lack a sense of musical direction. It boasts a thriving amateur operatic and classical music scene (although I recall the days of regular visits by the Hall and Liverpool Phil).
A town the size of Bolton should be developing its own talent and attracting music of variety and imagination.
There have been, over the years, live music venues where locals can play and sing their stuff .... The Clifton, Durty Nelly's, Gypsy's Tent, Hawthorns, Howcroft, and now The Man & Scythe.
Live music at this level is a vital element both for the individuals who perform and for the cultural life of the town. Some try things out, some polish up an act, while others go to listen and to meet friends. Ages have ranged from teens through to codgers, like myself, who should know better!
Bolton also needs a permanent venue both for that level of music and for other stages in the musical ladder.
During the year, Bolton attracts acts to the Albert Halls ... often good quality, but 'safe'. You never find the interesting mixture found at the Derby Hall and Met Bar in Bury.
The Derby Hall boasts a mix of drama, folk, jazz, rock, world music, classical, shows, comedy, plus dance, drama and music workshops. This uses local, national and international talent.
The interest is there in Bolton, but it is not being focused. Witness the friendly jostle at the Man & Scythe on Saturdays plus, some months ago, I spent one of my best evenings at a sold-out Octagon listening to Stacey Kent.
Bolton has (or had?) a chance with the Albert Halls and Oscars, a few steps from each other. Is it too late?
We need to make Bolton a more inviting place both day and night. Bradshawgate and Churchgate have become a complex of pubs and bars (no complaints, I visit several of those myself!). However, outside that zone, you may walk through the Town Hall Square to the sound of your own feet then arrive at Moor Lane bus station, which looks like a scene from a post-nuclear sci-fi film and listen to a disembodied voice wailing through the shadowy bays.
I want to live in an imaginative, creative and exciting town. Surely Bolton can at least match Bury in imagination and vision and not remain stuck in neutral?
Here's to a musical future!
David Sharples
Tarbet Drive
Bolton
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