Battersea Arts Centre Grand Hall reopened its door to the public this month.

The hall burnt down two years ago and to thank members of the public for their support, the centre hosted the first of ten free

Phoenix Events.

This event coincided with US President Donald Trumps first state visit to the UK. David Jubb, artistic director said: “When we heard that President Trump was also visiting the UK on 13th July, we looked at the values we were seeking to celebrate – which have characterised the 125 year history of Battersea’s former Town Hall. We felt that they were in contrast with some of the values which President Trump’s leadership has come to represent.

“Not for me, Not for you, But for Us” is Battersea’s mid-19th century motto and is one of Battersea Arts Centre’s core values. We think it captures a spirit of generosity and shared endeavour.

“Because President Trump is coming to the UK on the same day as we reopened the Grand Hall, we thought we would address our optimistic set of messages to one of the world’s most important leaders.”

“When we gathered for the picture, there was a palpable and positive sense of a community coming together. Not to protest or to be angry on this occasion. But to champion the things which we care deeply about.”

300 people packed out the front of the building before being led on a parade into the Grand Hall by theatre makers and musicians Little Bulb.

The event was hosted by Henrietta Immoreh, an agent with Battersea Arts Centre’s young creative entrepreneur programme The Agency, and Nate Forder-Staple, an artist in BAC Beatbox Academy.

Toby Jones - Hollywood actor and Battersea Arts Centre patron - read a moving poem about the memories the Grand Hall holds, David Jubb gave thanks to the numerous people who have helped over the years and board Chair Michael Day also spoke.

Architect Steve Tompkins’ and front of house manager Maureen Martin’s contributions to BAC were celebrated – with Tompkins representing all the people who have rebuilt the hall and Maureen representing all of BAC’s staff and volunteer team.

The Grand Hall officially opens in September with Gecko’s Missing, which is returning to complete its 2015 run that was interrupted by the fire.

There are 10 free “Phoenix Events” over the coming months and over 2,000 £1 tickets for the local community. To find out more visit http://bac.org.uk/phoenix

The Phoenix Season includes by world premieres by Bryony Kimmings and Lekan Lawal, and shows National Theatre of Scotland, BAC Beatbox Academy, Touretteshero, Dead Centre, Little Bulb, The Paper Cinema and others.