Hidden Voices of the Chew Valley short-film
We’re delighted to announce our Hidden Voices of the Chew Valley short-film, created by Phil Golston, presented by Laura Davies and written & produced by Kate McGregor.
The film is a leaping off point for more creativity in the Valley including schools workshops and a community play. We’d love to find out:
- In your opinion, who is missing from the film?
- If we could have included any Valley resident from the past or present – who would it be?
This project is all about giving power to the hidden voices as well as the visible. If you know of any stories or people you’d like us to reference going forward, let us know!
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!
Meet the Hidden Voices team
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.