Pontypridd has marked the reopening of the much-loved Y Muni in style, with a packed variety event on Saturday night that celebrated a host of local musical talent – raising the curtain for the venue’s exciting future.

The ‘Ponty LIVE!’ event on September 14 welcomed local musical acts to the auditorium’s main stage, as Y Muni hosted its first official event since a £6m redevelopment by Rhondda Cynon Taf Council and Awen Cultural Trust. The venue was used as a National Eisteddfod of Wales site in August 2024, and has now opened in its own right for the first time in more than five years, operated by Awen.

The historic 1890s building was originally built as a former Weslyan Chapel, and later became popular as a regional venue for arts and music. It has been significantly refurbished in recent months – including the whole exterior of the building along with the auditorium, bar area, foyer, mezzanine, and supporting spaces. The original Gothic features of the Listed building have also been opened up, enhanced and proudly displayed as part of the redevelopment.

Saturday’s event was compered by Pontypridd’s Vern Griffiths, as a full house enjoyed live music by amateur and professional performers – from choirs and acapella acts to musical theatre and singer-songwriters. Taking to the stage were The People The Poet, Hazel & Grey, SOW Acapella, Bethan Nia, Tom Jenkins, Jamie B Sings, Project Prosper, Pontypridd Community Choir, Choirs for Good, Pontypridd Theatre Company and Côr Meibion Pontypridd.

Showing their support for Y Muni and Awen on the big re-opening night were several of Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Cabinet Members – including Deputy Leader of the Council, Councillor Maureen Webber, Councillor Ann Crimmings, and Councillor Tina Leyshon (pictured with Awen CEO, Richard Hughes).

Y Muni’s redevelopment was possible thanks to more than £5.3m funding from the UK Government’s Levelling Up Fund – along with contributions from Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, Awen and Welsh Government, bringing the total investment up to £6m.

Councillor Mark Norris, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Cabinet Member for Development and Prosperity, said: “The impressive redevelopment of Y Muni has revitalised this much-loved landmark in Pontypridd, and it is wonderful to see it brought back into use as a live events venue. We’re really proud of how the historic features of the Gothic building have been preserved and enhanced, while modern facilities have been installed throughout – particularly across the auditorium, bar and mezzanine areas.

“Y Muni is the latest regeneration project to be delivered across Pontypridd town centre – alongside Llys Cadwyn, YMa, Cwrt yr Orsaf and the old bingo hall site. With a varied catalogue of events planned at Y Muni in the months ahead, I would encourage interested residents to go along and experience Pontypridd’s newest venue in one of its oldest, most-vibrant buildings.”

Councillor Bob Harris, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health and Communities, added: “What a fantastic night of local entertainment to officially re-open Y Muni to the public in Pontypridd! The major redevelopment project has produced a brilliant venue for live music and event cinema, and has re-established the popular landmark as a regional arts and cultural hub. The whole Cabinet would like to thank everyone involved in making ‘Ponty LIVE!’ a success, particularly the fantastic performers and the public for coming along.

“I’d also like to recognise the work of our partner Awen Cultural Trust, whose dedication has ensured everything was in place for Y Muni’s long-anticipated re-opening – both for the Eisteddfod last month and ahead of its busy opening season of events. Awen has expertise in operating such historic venues in a sustainable way, and has ensured Y Muni has a bright and exciting future.”

Richard Hughes, Chief Executive of Awen Cultural Trust, added: “We felt it was important that the first event to be held at Y Muni, under our management in partnership with RCT Council, was a true reflection and celebration of local amateur and professional talent. Y Muni is a much-loved community venue and I was so proud to see the audience enjoy the evening’s performances within this beautifully renovated space. It is also an opportunity to formally thank the Council for their partnership and the collaborative approach in realising the vision for this important regional venue.”

‘Ponty LIVE!’ opened Y Muni’s varied and exciting opening season of events, which includes a packed programme of music, comedy and event cinema. The venue has a 300 seated or 400 standing capacity, as well as a 120-person capacity for cabaret style events. For full details about What’s On, and to buy event tickets, please visit Y Muni’s official website: www.y-muni.co.uk.