Join the Community Residency for Coiners
Mytholmroyd’s dance-theatre company, Northern Rascals is excited to invite people in Calderdale aged 14-25 to take part in a creative community residency for a brand new project, Coiners.
Over four days during the February half-term, you’ll work with Artistic Directors Anna Holmes and Sam Ford through movement, theatre, and creative writing sessions to explore stories of place, community, and resistance. Together, you’ll uncover new ways of telling Calderdale’s past - and your own experiences of living here today.
There are 10 bursaries of £250 available to support your participation.
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In the 18th century, a group of local people in Cragg Vale (near Mytholmroyd) became infamous for secretly clipping coins and melting the shavings to create counterfeit coins, which they then circulated. The gang was led by the local legend “King” David Hartley. Their story of resistance and community survival has become a fascinating chapter of Calderdale’s history - and the inspiration for this project!
You don’t need to know anything about the Coiners to join the workshop.
When?
The sessions take place in February half-term:
Tuesday 17th - Friday 20 February 2026.
10:30am - 4:30pm each day
Where?
Wainsgate Chapel, Wainsgate, Hebden Bridge, HX7 8SU
What’s involved:
Free creative workshops exploring Calderdale’s history, local folklore, and your own experiences of the Calder Valley
Movement, theatre, and writing activities led by professional artists
Opportunities to feed into the development of a new professional production by Northern Rascals
A collaborative space where your ideas for text, choreography, sound, and storytelling directly shape the project
Who can join:
Residents from Calderdale (aged 14-25)
All genders welcome
No prior experience in theatre or dance is required - just curiosity and imagination!
Why get involved:
Learn new skills in movement, creative writing, and devising theatre
Grow your confidence and creative voice
Meet new people from across Calderdale
Contribute to an exciting project celebrating local history and identity
Receive a £250 bursary for your involvement (10 places available)
HOW TO JOIN
To apply for a place, visit: https://forms.gle/v63ypDnokDp52h7f6 and apply by 19 Jan at 12 noon.