Musicians, actors, dancers and performers will be able to play to the crowds from on high in Castletown, with the opening of a new stage area.

The new community stage, situated on the roof over the doorway of town’s civic centre, was launched on Thursday last week with an evening of live music and dancing.

Barracks Square in the centre of Castletown was filled with the sounds of live rock, pop and Irish music, as crowds danced and basked in deckchairs, toe tapping and singing along with the well-loved local duo, Brown Sugar, featuring Claire and Derek Allen.

The stage has been sponsored by Simcocks Advocates,who have backed the new stage as part of its 70th anniversary celebrations.

The local law firm wanted to contribute towards the community where founder Howard Simcocks held weekly surgeries for many years, and where the company had an office for decades.

Howard was very much involved in local choirs and music, particularly in the south of the island.

The stage was officially opened by Simcocks CEO, Phil Games, and chairman of Castletown Commissioners, David Parnell, after which Simcocks staff and clients enjoyed food and drink at The Secret Pizza Company, and mingled with locals enjoying the music in the square.

’We’re delighted to have the opportunity to make this contribution to the local community,’ said Phil.

The evening proved that this stage is a very positive addition to the town, making Barracks Square an excellent location for outdoor events. I’m sure it will get a lot of use over the years, and I look forward to seeing it being enjoyed by the town.’

The commissioners said that they are currently ’working on the practicalities of managing the community stage in order to make it available to local groups as frequently and as soon as possible.

Any parties interested in using the stage should contact the commissioners on 825005.