The New Art Gallery Walsall recently marked a major milestone, celebrating 25 years since its doors first opened. Over the celebratory weekend, around 2,000 visitors joined in the festivities, with one of the standout highlights being a heartwarming performance by The Blue Lights Choir, a group making a real difference in the community.
The celebrations kicked off on Thursday evening, where around 550 guests gathered for a preview of The Joy Project exhibition in the Community Gallery. As visitors explored the gallery after hours, they were treated to pitch-perfect performance by The Blue Lights Choir, a local group dedicated to empowering young women in Walsall through music and community.
Miss Gardner leads The Blue Lights Choir
The Blue Lights Choir – Uplifting Voices and Building Confidence
Founded to create a positive and supportive space for young women, The Blue Lights Choir offers more than just singing lessons—it’s a place where confidence grows, friendships are formed, and voices are heard. The choir meets every Wednesday evening from 5:45 pm to 7:00 pm during term time at The Table, 33 Lower Hall Lane, Walsall, WS1 1RR.
During their sessions, choir members work on vocal techniques, learn uplifting songs, and most importantly, connect with others in a safe and inspiring environment. Whether preparing for community performances or simply enjoying the joy of singing together, the choir helps young women find their voice—literally and figuratively.
As part of the weekend celebrations, The Blue Lights Choir also led interactive lyrics workshops on Saturday, giving visitors a chance to experience the magic firsthand. Participants joined in karaoke sessions and learned about songwriting, all while soaking in the lively atmosphere created by Walsall’s Youth Hopper Bus, which was stationed in Gallery Square.
A Weekend Full of Joy and Community Spirit
Beyond The Blue Lights Choir’s inspiring contributions, the weekend was filled with a range of family-friendly activities. Sunday saw a special edition of the Gallery’s popular free Sunday Art Club, where children created colourful birthday bunting to mark the Gallery’s anniversary.
Speeches from key community figures also added to the celebratory spirit. The Mayor of Walsall, Councillor Anthony Harris, Walsall Council’s Chief Executive, Emma Bennett, and Dr Darren Henley CBE, Chief Executive of Arts Council England, all spoke passionately about the Gallery’s cultural impact, while The New Art Gallery Walsall’s Director, Stephen Snoddy, reflected on the Gallery’s journey and its continued importance in the community.
Gallery director Stephen Snoddy, Walsall Council’s Chief Executive Emma Bennett and Cllr Anthony Harris, Mayor of Walsall celebrate
A Rich History and Exciting Future
Since its opening on 20 February 2000, and its official unveiling by HM Queen Elizabeth II on 5 May 2000, The New Art Gallery Walsall has welcomed an estimated 4 million visitors. Guests over the weekend were also able to view the historic Visitor’s Book signed by the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh, now on display on the Gallery’s Mezzanine alongside a new local history book honoring the late Queen.
The Gallery’s Permanent Collection now boasts approximately 4,000 artworks, all belonging to the people of Walsall. From the renowned Garman Ryan Collection to the thought-provoking Twenty Twenty Collection, the Gallery continues to be a hub of creativity and community.
What’s Next? Upcoming Events at The Gallery
The anniversary celebrations are just the beginning. The Gallery has a vibrant lineup of upcoming events, including:
- World Book Day (8 March): A celebration inspired by the beauty of peacocks, featuring performances from Sonia Sabri Company and Pep the Poet.
- Holi Festivities (15 March): Dance performances, creative workshops, and a joyful splash of colour.
- Eid Community Day (5 April): A day filled with nasheed performances, artist-led workshops, and beautiful mehndi art.
- Vaisakhi Community Day (26 April): Enjoy Bhangra dancing, yoga sessions, and live tabla performances.
For young women interested in joining The Blue Lights Choir or for anyone looking to get involved in the community, the choir always welcomes new members. It’s more than just a singing group—it’s a place where voices soar, confidence grows, and lifelong friendships are made.
Join the choir, find your voice, and be part of something special!