The John Peel Centre for Creative Arts
The John Peel Centre for Creative Arts
The John Peel Centre for Creative Arts CIC (JPC) is a vibrant, volunteer-led live music and arts venue based in the heart of Stowmarket, Suffolk. Rooted in community spirit and inspired by one of Britain’s most influential cultural figures, the Centre is both a celebration of creative heritage and a dynamic platform for contemporary artistic expression.
John Peel, whose name the Centre proudly bears, was a towering force in British music culture. Living locally near Stowmarket, Peel was renowned for his eclectic musical taste, fearless support of new and emerging artists, and his belief that great music should be accessible to everyone. From punk and reggae to indie, folk, and experimental sounds, Peel’s open-minded approach transformed the music industry and helped launch countless careers. That same ethos lies at the very heart of the John Peel Centre today.
The Centre’s mission is clear: to nurture and encourage musicians and artists, champion emerging talent, and increase accessibility to the arts for all. This commitment is reflected in a year-round programme that blends fresh, innovative voices with established national and international touring artists. Audiences are invited to discover new sounds, ideas, and perspectives in a welcoming and inclusive environment that values creativity over convention.
While live music remains central to the Centre’s identity, the programme extends well beyond gigs. The John Peel Centre hosts a diverse mix of events throughout the year, including comedy, poetry, theatre, spoken word, film, and visual art exhibitions. This breadth of activity ensures the venue appeals to a wide range of audiences and provides opportunities for artists working across disciplines to share their work.
As a community-focused organisation, the John Peel Centre is more than just a performance space. It is a creative hub that actively supports local people and organisations. The Centre’s facilities are available for hire to members of the public, community groups, charities, and business users, making it a flexible and accessible venue for rehearsals, workshops, meetings, conferences, celebrations, and private events. By opening its doors in this way, the Centre strengthens local connections and encourages wider participation in the arts.
Run by a dedicated team of volunteers, the John Peel Centre for Creative Arts embodies collaboration, passion, and grassroots creativity. Volunteers play a vital role in delivering events, welcoming artists and audiences, and ensuring the Centre remains a warm and inclusive space for everyone who walks through its doors.
Whether you are an artist looking for a supportive place to perform, an audience member eager to experience something new, or a community group seeking a creative venue, the John Peel Centre offers a unique cultural home. Inspired by John Peel’s enduring legacy and driven by a commitment to artistic discovery, the Centre continues to enrich Stowmarket’s cultural life while connecting local creativity to a wider national and international stage.