“What makes a river special is what happens on it, along it and in it”
Nothing could be simpler. We survey rivers, noting down the positions of all bridges, dams, major settlements and confluences along their lengths, then commission textile artists to turn this data ribbon maps.
To compliment these maps we commission guided tours. Some start at the river’s source, others at the river’s mouth. They cover thousands of years of history, beautiful natural history, famous sights and fascinating facts.
The tours are performed in an engaging, friendly style,, with wit and energy to a live audience.
Tour Dates
-
18th March 2023:
The Lune
Lancaster Literature Festival
Storey Insitute, Lancaster -
15th October 2022:
The Lune, & The Thames
Beside The Lune, Lancaster -
11th September 2021:
The Thames & The Volga
Cotteridge Park, Birmingham
Wonderful afternoon @CotteridgePark watching @stanscafe tell the story of the Thames and the Volga. Inspirational peformances full of charm and humour , brilliant, mind expanding writing and stunning needlework.
Liz C – Twitter
My friends … absolutely loved it, had lots of thoughts on what rivers to do next and insisted we invite them to whatever your next show is.
Karen S
The Thames
Craig’s storytelling was impeccable
Marc C
Written and performed by Craig Stephens
Map by Vicky Roden
Directed by James Yarker
Stage Manager – Emily Davies
Photographs 1 – 4 – Rich Berry
Photographs 5-8 – Jaskirt Boora
Executive Producer – Roisin Caffrey
Administrator – Lucy Bird
With thanks to:
The Friends of Cotteridge Park
Raddlebarn Primary School
Gilda Almeida & Alicia Adams at The John F Kennedy Center, Washington D.C.
The Volga
Went down the Volga with @stanscafe … a perfect way to spend a Saturday, art, a lovely audience and a wonderful performance from Elexi.
Lara R – Twitter
Written by James Yarker
Performed by Elexi Walker
Map by Vicky Roden
Directed by James Yarker
Photographs by Jaskirt Boora
(except 1 & 7 by Rich Berry)
The Lune
Written by Claire Dean
Performed by Orla Cottingham
Textile Team
Lead Designer and Coordinator:
Katrina Barnish
Stitchers and Painters:
Carol Gittins
Enda O’Regan
Gina Frausin
Sian Bowes
Virginia Edwards
With contributions from – Alice Booth, Kiki Callihan, Claire Dean, Masha Gulina and much support from our friends and families.
Directed by James Yarker
Commissioned by Lancaster Arts
Photographs Rich Berry
Liz C – Twitter
