Discover your folk story: FREE creative workshops
Join dance-theatre company Northern Rascals for a warm, welcoming creative workshop exploring the folk stories that shape who we are - including the tales passed down in families and the legends rooted in our communities.
Inspired by the history of the Cragg Vale Coiners, this session invites people of all ages to come together, share experiences and imagine the folk tales of the future.
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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.
Over 1.5 hours, you’ll take part in:
A light, optional movement warm-up to settle into the space
Group discussions about what “folk stories” mean to us
Creative writing tasks exploring personal, family and community tales
Space to reflect on local myths, including what people know about the Cragg Vale Coiners
The chance to invent new folk stories - what might people say about us in 200 years’ time?
What to bring
If you can, bring something meaningful that carries a story for you: a song, an object, a photograph - even another person! Please also bring a bottle of water, as well as shoes / clothes that you feel comfortable moving in.
Who is it for?
We are building an intergenerational group, welcoming people of all backgrounds, ages and experiences. No creative experience is needed. All are welcome!
Where AND WHEN we’re running workshops
We’re taking this workshop across the M62 corridor - exploring how stories shift from place to place.
BARNSLEY - 31 Jan 2026, 11am - 12.30pm
Barnsley Civic, Eldon Street, Barnsley, S70 2JLROCHDALE - 2 Feb 2026, 5pm - 6.30pm
Richard Street Studios, 44 Richard St, Rochdale OL11 1DUKIRKLEES - 4 Feb 2026, 11am - 12.30pm
Creative Scene, 5th Floor, Empire House, Brigantia, Wakefield Old Rd, Dewsbury WF12 8DJ
CALDERDALE - 4 Feb 2026, 6pm - 7:30pm
Todmorden Hippodrome, The Auditorium, 83 Halifax Rd, Todmorden OL14 5BB
The workshops are completely free to attend.
How to join
Sign up in advance to secure a place: https://forms.gle/vYyMj8NrMgGPWQcV7 or simply drop in on the day.