About the Old Sorting Office

Who we are

It took nearly five years to raise the money to refurbish the premises, but The OSO Arts Centre, next to ASK Restaurant on Barnes Common by the Pond has, in less than a year, become an important part of the social life of Barnes. The Centre opened in September 2002 and provides a venue for theatre and live performances, art exhibitions, dance classes, music, drama for all ages and abilities, writers' groups, a film club, Yoga, Pilates classes, education opportunities... in fact, anything and everything.

The O.S.O. is run by a Charitable Trust and is open to all. Several events are run for the benefit of the public with no charges involved.

What we do

Apart from the daily activities, the artistic side has really flourished. Several art exhibitions have taken place and many more are scheduled. The theatre side is proving immensely popular with professional plays being staged, amateurs being encouraged to stage productions and a monthly Free Theatre Rehearsed Play Reading acted and directed by professionals. The Film Club has proved a great success as people realise that they do not have to travel for miles to enjoy excellent entertainment

We were thrilled to have the internationally renowned harpist Ieuan Jones give a special concert to raise funds for us. Music must and should play an important role at the O.S.O.

There are three studio spaces which can be adapted to one large space or several computations of the three, with a sprung dance floor and soundproof screens.

Since opening we have had several private functions, anniversary parties, birthdays, charity evenings and fund-raising events – and we have been granted a licence to hold civil wedding ceremonies, perfect for those who wish to marry and hold their wedding reception in the amazing setting of the O.S.O.

The future

Our ambitions for the O.S.O. are still only partially realised. We still have some fund-raising to do to add further equipment and decoration, but we are getting there. So come and visit us, volunteer your help, enjoy the facilities, have lunch, come to the movies, look at the exhibitions, hold your parties – the O.S.O. is special and we're proud of it. Come and see for yourselves.