A NEW performing arts scheme is “open for business” and has invited local groups to get involved and use its facilities.

Market Chambers Performers Together (MCPT) is an arts and community based project which aims to promote and provide rehearsal space and performance based opportunities for all ages from its premises in Church Street, Basingstoke.

The Market Chambers building, next to the Haymarket Theatre, had stood empty since 2012 but in 2016 MCPT were given permission by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council to use the space.

Run by a steering committee, of representatives from the community, Basingstoke Amateur Operatic Society (BAOS), Basingstoke Amateur Theatrical Society (BATS), BAOS Limelight, and BATS Next Generation (BNG), The Gazette was invited to have a look around the premises and understand more about MCPT’s vision.

“We really want to make sure local performing arts groups out there know that we’re open for business,” Stephanie Webb, BAOS and BAOS Limelight chair, and committee member of MCPT, told The Gazette.

“There is this fantastic space that can be hired by people in the community and this is our focus. It’s an ideal location in the centre of town, so groups can arrange meetings and rehearsals in a suitable place.”

MCPT has been in operation since February 2016. The building was originally used by the town’s then professional acting company The Horseshoe Theatre.

“The idea is we want to get this space used by as many people as possible,” Fiona Morgans, chair of BNG and MCPT, added.

“The aim is to widen the building’s reach and develop the space to include many more community groups which come under the umbrella of performing both professional and amateur.”

To find out more visit facebook.com/marketchambers or email marketchambers@yahoo.co.uk.