New play reveals life in the country
Arts & Entertainment
Shire Hall, © Folio Creative
Inspired by conversations and interviews with people in rural communities, Hefted is a new play by Devon-based Multi Story Theatre which explores the connection we have to the land, the pull of our past and what it means for our future. Hefted is embedded in the landscape, history, and psyche of rural life. Wryly funny, emotionally absorbing and interspersed with song and a spectacular soundscape, nine stories sweep across 600 years, starting in 1475 with a supernatural birth and moving through to an imagined 2075 in which tales from the past are retold to heal the present. From the fantastical to the dramatisation of real events, each story explores the notion of being ‘hefted’ – deeply connected to the land. Hefted will be at Litton Cheney Community Hall on Saturday, 29 January and Blandford Corn Exchange on Sunday, 30 January. Suitable for ages 14-plus, tickets are available from www.artsreach.co.uk
blackmorevale.net
Shire Hall’s future secured
Shire Hall Museum has received a grant of £167,500 from the Government’s latest round from the Culture Recovery Fund to help the organisation recover from the impact of the covid pandemic. The Grade I listed building served as Dorset’s courthouse from 1797 until 1955. Now an award-winning social justice museum, Shire Hall brings over two centuries of justice and injustice to life. Director Abbie King said: “This funding will allow us secure the future of Shire Hall and ensure that we continue to thrive in a post pandemic economy. We’re proud to be custodians of this historic building and to share stories of justice and injustice with our visitors. Shire Hall is also committed to supporting our local community. From our work with people living with dementia, local LGBT youth groups and schools to showcasing local businesses in our shop and at our markets, this funding will allow us to continue enriching and supporting thousands of lives.” A total of £138 million has been awarded to heritage organisations from the three rounds of the government’s £2 billion Culture Recovery Fund support package This third round of grants are part of the additional £300 million announced by the Chancellor at March’s Budget. Duncan Wilson, Chief Executive, Historic England said: “We are delighted that the Culture Recovery Fund for Heritage grants continue to keep so many heritage organisations going. From major historic buildings to small community organisations promoting local heritage – all deserve this support, to continue to open up to everyone the opportunities that our shared history creates.” The Culture Recovery Fund for Heritage is administered by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, in partnership with Historic England on behalf of the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport.
New Blackmore Vale, 7th January 2022
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