Hidden Voices of the Chew Valley

Our brand-new 2025 community project, Hidden Voices, celebrates 10 years of Valley Arts! After the huge success of Rising Waters last year, we are delighted to announce our newest community initiative.

This year’s project will consist of:

• Short-film created by local residents and a professional videographer.
• Creative Community Workshops in locations across the Valley.
• Storytelling workshops in 7 local primary schools.
• ‘Feasting’ with Humanity Hotel in partnership with Trigger.
• Community play created with local residents and supported by a professional creative team.

Creative Community Workshop

Hidden Voices Casting Workshop

Tuesday 22nd April 6.30-8.30pm at Bishop Sutton Village Hall

Led by Emma Earle and Kate McGregor

Hidden Voices Community Play: Sign up and Take Part!

We are keen to hear from anyone who would like to join our community cast of local performers, musicians and backstage crew!

Rehearsals will take place from Tuesday 22nd April with a final outdoor performance at The Community Farm from 11th – 13th July 2025. This is an intergenerational project for all ages.

Please register for the project by signing up via the link

Calling local musicians!

Our Hidden Voices performance in July will be a celebration of talent across the valley. If you sing or play an instrument and would like to showcase your skills as part of a theatrical event. Get in touch!

Valley Arts Writers Group: Do you have a story to tell?

Our brand-new community play this year will be written by local residents. We welcome poets, novelists, playwrights, creative writers and anybody who loves developing stories and characters.

Over a period of 3 months you’ll gain mentorship from local theatre-maker and writer Kesty Morrison (Tidal Tales) and work alongside the Hidden Voices dramaturg and co-directors to shape your ideas into a final outdoor performance for a public audience.

Email hidden.voices@valley-arts.co.uk to register your interest!

Emma Earle

Emma lives locally and is co-directing Hidden Voices. She has worked in theatre, film, education and community arts for the past 20 years, as a director, producer and teacher.

Kate McGregor

Kate lives in the Chew Valley and is the Creative Producer for Valley Arts. She is an award winning director, writer and producer.