IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: Wigan Casino 50th anniversary exhibition

By Michelle Adamson

Published 24th Oct 2023, 15:45 BST

50 Years On The Soul Stays Strong was the title of a month-long exhibition, part of the golden anniversary of the opening of legendary venue Wigan Casino. This exhibition explored the lasting influence of the iconic venue, discovering different perspectives unified by a love of music. The Northern Soul scene gave a generation of working-class people an escape from the nine-to-five grind and freedom to express themselves through music and dance.

The exhibiton ran for a month in the old WHSmith store on Standishgate. It attracted visitors from around the world who came to see photographs, artwork and a film, including work by acclaimed artists Dean Chalkley and William Titley, alongside newly commissioned work by students from Wigan and Leigh College. Dean's project was supported by Open Eye Gallery as part of Open Eye Hub in Wigan.

Visitors watch the film about the Northern Soul music scene.

1. 50 Years On The Soul Stays Strong

Visitors watch the film about the Northern Soul music scene. Photo: Photographer Michelle Adamson

Laura Taylor guides visitors around the exhibition.

2. 50 Years On The Soul Stays Strong

Laura Taylor guides visitors around the exhibition. Photo: Photographer Michelle Adamson

3. 50 Years On The Soul Stays Strong

- Photo: Photographer Michelle Adamson

50 Years On The Soul Stays Strong

4. 50 Years On The Soul Stays Strong

50 Years On The Soul Stays Strong Photo: Photographer Michelle Adamson