There is a lot of love for the Assembly Rooms among some segments of the population, while others feel it is not for them. Around 14% of our sample had only a vague idea of what goes on in the Assembly Rooms and some had never been there despite having lived in Presteigne for years.

Among those who love the Assembly Rooms and attend with varying degrees of regularity (66%), there were calls for broader programming. The most common demands in order of popularity were: programs for kids (theatre, film, art, family-friendly & mother/toddler events); more talks on a range of topics (local history, literature, philosophy, health, travel, politics, art, folklore); greater variety of music (pop, rock, world, folk, jazz, local bands, classical, dance); mainstream films; comedy; theatre; fairs or markets and art exhibits.

In terms of classes, workshops or groups, the most common demands were for: language classes (particularly French and Welsh); Yoga, fitness and dance; craft and art classes; educational discussion groups and book clubs. There were a few calls for “community programming” with low-key activities such as music and chat; tea time events; board games, quizzes and Bingo.

In general, there was a strong desire to keep the Assembly Rooms a going concern. Some felt it was already doing a good job, but a greater proportion emphasised the need for broader programming and inclusivity. There was also a recognition that we need to engage and energise a younger population for the future.

Youth Surveys:

Perhaps unsurprisingly, we had far fewer completed youth surveys. The general impression from the ones that were completed was a strong desire for programs aimed more specifically at kids. Comments included things like: “Not interesting for youth” and “Want to be able to meet friends.” Some of the suggested activities included teen movies, kids’ disco, drama, musical theatre, learning musical instruments, animation, photography, magic shows and painting lessons.