Princes Hall in Aldershot celebrates its 50th Anniversary, having been formally opened by HRH Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, on Thursday 22nd May 1973.
The venue was named after the Prince after he flew to Aldershot Garrison by Wessex helicopter, which he piloted himself, to open the hall. The Prince planted a tree on the day and said: “I’m sure this centre will be a tremendous success.”
Princes Hall was originally commissioned as a civic hall after the demolition of Aldershot's Theatre Royal in 1959 and the Hippodrome Theatre in 1961, built on the site of the old Warburg Barracks.
The venue is is owned and managed by Rushmoor Borough Council, and offers a varied programme of music, ballet, comedy, pantomime and cinema. It also hosts various events such as workshops, conferences, corporate hospitality and private parties.
To commemorate the anniversary of Princes Hall, The Mayor of Rushmoor, Cllr. John Marsh, planted a new tree at the venue.
Rushmoor Borough Council Cabinet Member for Operational Services, Cllr. Maurice Sheehan stated:
"The fact that the Princes Hall is still going strong half a century on is a testament to those who had the vision to bring a top class venue to Aldershot, and to the many people who have worked so hard to keep it successful for all these years. For many local people it is the first place they go when looking for quality entertainment for the family.”
You can find out what's on at Princes Hall here: What's On - Princes Hall
Pictured, Princes Hall in Aldershot and The Mayor of Rushmoor, Cllr. John Marsh, planting a new tree