A collection of stories and voices from across Cumbria will be part of an exhibition celebrating culture within communities.
STREET is one of 40 new projects taking place in and around 40 arts centres as part of Here and Now.
The stories and voice recordings were collected in early 2020 and, last March, touring theatre company imitating the dog made five short films from these, in March 2020
Originally planned as a walk-through gallery installation — as a number of small houses, like dolls’ houses, with the films projected into the rooms, so visitors could peer inside to see and hear the stories — due to the coronavirus pandemic, it has been moved online.
In this new plan, each film will locate the original filmed footage and recorded audio in domestic situations: a cupboard, a bookshelf, a bedside table.
Keeping with the miniature theme, the audience sees tiny characters acting out strange but familiar actions in these everyday locations.
The five films will be released by Kendal’s Brewery Arts Centre — one a week — during March.
In five short episodes we hear fragments of very real lives set against the magic of some very unreal situations.
imitating the dog learning and access officer Laurence Young said: ‘It’s been a joy adapting our STREET stories for a new medium and audience.
“When we first spoke to these brilliant people we had no idea how the world would change over the coming months, but revisiting these stories has been a real light and a reminder of the humanity and need to share in these everyday moments and memories.
“We hope they bring some much needed warmth to everyone that watches.”
Eighteen-year-old Tilly Woof is one of STREET’s youngest storytellers.
She said: “It was brilliant to take part in this project, not only being able to tell my story, but to listen to others from around the region — really fascinating!’
STREET can be watched at www.breweryarts.co.uk/about/our-work/street/
The project is supported by Arts Council England and Future Arts Centres and markis the National Lottery’s 25th birthday.
STREET was made by imitating the dog, the work was commissioned by the Brewery Arts Centre, and engagement and promotions are supported by Highlights.
