Nestled in the rugged embrace of the Cumbrian coast, Barrow-in-Furness is better known for its industrial past than its artistic present. Yet, in a former park keeper’s lodge, Full of Noises has emerged as a beacon for avant-garde musicians, showcasing talent from across the globe. As a hub for creative expression in a town dominated by submarine manufacturing, this innovative venue is redefining the narrative of arts funding and community engagement.
An Industrial Backdrop
Barrow-in-Furness, with its dramatic coastline and historical ties to submarine production, presents a curious contrast to the world of experimental music. The area’s landscape, punctuated by the imposing structures of BAE Systems, serves as both a source of local employment and a reminder of the town’s industrial identity. Yet, amidst this militarised atmosphere lies Full of Noises, a small yet dynamic venue with a capacity of just 40. Founded in 2009, it has hosted a roster of notable artists, including krautrock icons Faust, who famously opened the venue by smashing a guitar with a pneumatic drill.
Artistic director Glenn Boulter reflects on the unique environment: “It was an interesting context to be working in. The heavy security meant we could create without the usual pressures of an established scene.” This sense of freedom has allowed the venue to flourish, cultivating a rich tapestry of artistic expression that draws on the town’s history and community.
A New Home for Creativity
After several years of roaming, Full of Noises found its permanent residence in Piel View House, a charming red-brick lodge that has been thoughtfully updated with a contemporary black extension. This new space features an acoustically engineered performance area, complete with large windows that frame the picturesque park surroundings. Here, the venue continues to attract a diverse array of artists, from LA’s Tashi Wada to the acclaimed Lonnie Holley, who recently played to a packed yet intimate audience.
The venue isn’t just about concerts; it also offers film screenings, creative workshops, and artist residencies, nurturing a vibrant creative ecosystem. “We love the challenge of presenting innovative work in a space that feels both isolated and welcoming,” Boulter states, illustrating the venue’s commitment to fostering artistic growth.
A Community-Centric Approach
During a recent visit coinciding with Independent Venue Week, I had the opportunity to witness the venue’s community spirit first-hand. As they prepared for a showcase featuring graduates from the London College of Communication, venue programmer Amy Stretch-Parker emphasised the importance of creating a warm atmosphere. “I remember touring and sleeping on astroturf in kitchens,” she recalled. “I want every artist to feel at home here.” This philosophy is evident as she prepares communal meals for visiting acts, ensuring that each artist receives equal treatment, regardless of their fame.
The venue’s sustainability is anchored in a unique financial model. With a 25-year lease at a nominal rent from the local authority, Full of Noises has thrived thanks to funding from Arts Council England, which has allowed for significant redevelopment and operational support. The designation of Barrow as an ACE Priority Place has been transformative, enabling access to vital resources for the venue’s ongoing success.
A Night of Experimental Sound
On a damp January evening, the venue buzzed with energy as LCC graduates set up an array of experimental equipment. As the audience trickled in, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation. One performer, Sanki, mesmerised attendees with a performance that combined illuminated tanks of water and metallic chains, creating haunting underwater sounds that reverberated through the space.
A local patron shared an intriguing insight into the venue’s name, referencing Caliban’s speech from Shakespeare’s *The Tempest*: “Be not afeard; the isle is full of noises.” This poetic sentiment echoes the spirit of Full of Noises, where creativity thrives in an unconventional setting.
Why it Matters
Full of Noises stands as a testament to the power of arts funding and community support in transforming an isolated industrial town into a vibrant cultural hotspot. By fostering a nurturing environment for artists and engaging the local community, this venue exemplifies how creativity can flourish in unexpected places. As Barrow-in-Furness continues to redefine its identity, Full of Noises remains at the heart of its artistic renaissance, proving that even in the most unlikely of settings, remarkable art can emerge.
