PENISTONE has always enjoyed a great community spirit and in the past had a host of theatrical and choral groups to entertain the community.
Sadly, like many events, television, videos and digital devices took their toll on not just audiences but people willing or inclined to give time and talent for the benefit of the community.
Penistone Operatic Society’s musicals complete with orchestra were an annual event to look forward but sadly disbanded a couple of years ago when not enough people were available to fill the necessary roles, or run the society after more than 50 years. Thurlstone Primitive Methodist Chapel Concert Party, the Merriuns (Merry Ones) with separate trio, George Redvers Tinker, Arthur Blacker and Jim Windle, livened up many a dark winter’s evening in the 1920s.
 John Arthur blacker and Jim Windle (garage owner)..jpg "Trio of Merrians, George Redvers Tinker (joiner and later the local undertaker) John Arthur blacker and Jim Windle (garage owner).")
The town had two theatrical groups, Penistone Players, and Penistone Theatre Group. Sadly only one remains to entertain the community, especially with its annual pantomime performances. The Theatre Group has its own headquarters and rehearsing rooms. Other attractions in days gone by included the renowned Thurlstone Bell Orchestra and Netherfield Congregational Choir.
.jpg "Thurlstone Primitive Methodist Chapel Concert Party, the ‘’Merrions’’ ( Merry Ones)")
