Carbury Community Centre has been known by many names since it was built by Charlie Adams in 1932. It was originally built as a Dance Hall and also used for Travelling Shows. It was later converted into a cinema by Charlie’s son, Larly, who had become interested in cinema after Price’s of Prosperous had rented the hall to show films. As a cinema it proved very popular with the Turf Camp workers in the area. In the 1960’s the Parish of Carbury purchased the building off Larly and Variety Concerts, dramatic productions, socials, hops and dances became the norm for the hall.
In 1971 Civil Defence Rescue operated out of the centre and the late, great Joe Dolan cut his professional teeth on the stage in the hall along with many other great performers. Thousands of pounds were won there over the years when the Bingo drew large crowds to hear Bill Clinton shout “Two fat Ladies, 88” and then enquire from the “Are you sweating?” when those gathered in the hall were waiting on one number for a win.
In the last decade the hall has seen many different groups take up residence. A school of speech and drama started in 2002. Carbury Kickboxing has tutored many of its members to European and World titles in the hall. Civil Defence First Aiders learned to become First Responders there and the Carbury Players Drama Group presented at least one production per year on the hallowed boards. Carbury scouts and the local Foroige Youth Club moved into the hall too and FÁS took over the old kitchen and entrance room for use as office space.
If you know of any group in need of a venue please let them know that the Carbury Community Centre is open for business.
- Rates are €15 per hour with heating
- €10 per hour without heating.
Tea making facilities are also available.
For more details contact the Parish Office.