STORIES WE TELL - A LOVE LETTER TO ROCHDALE

Review by Seamus Kelly

Stories We Tell, created by Breaking Barriers with Young Company, is an immersive night-time walk through Rochdale with light and sound bringing stories from local people to life.

Using 360° audio through headphones and projections onto an inside buildings the stories reveal hidden histories and memories of Rochdale.

On a cold January evening at Rochdale Railway Station, we met with people from a wide range of ages and backgrounds. Parvez Qadir and his team of volunteers and staff made everyone feel welcome, provided headphones and explained what to expect during the

evening.

This experience was indeed every bit as powerful and effective as the Breaking Barriers publicity suggested it would be. As we walked, we heard stories from the town we know, and along with atmospheric music and sound effects, it is fair to say that Stories We Tell

taught us new nuggets and certainly boosted pride in this place and its communities.

We heard about the communities around Deeplish and visited St John the Baptist church where the amazing mosaic was cleverly lit and the dome filled with projected stars. Further along we passed Champness Hall hearing people’s reminiscences about the events that took place (and didn’t) in this historic building.

We had a lovely surprise stop to be treated to live musing from local musician and singer Ed Jamil, who is part of the band Pool Era.

At Rochdale Town Hall we watched video and images projected onto the building before hot chocolate at the famous San Remo café on Drake Street provided a fitting end to a really enjoyable and informative event. Well done to Parvez and the team for creating an

inspiring event to be proud of.

The steady walk takes about an hour; the route has been designed to be accessible for wheelchairs and buggies and is suitable for all ages. Throughout the event the team made sure everyone was safe and happy, controlling road crossings and lighting any uneven ground with torches.

To watch trailer visit: https://breakingbarriersrochdale.co.uk/whats-on/

Some of the comments from those who have experienced Stories We Tell include:

“I just thought the whole thing was absolutely incredible. Even though I’m not from here, it made me feel so proud and inspired by such a wonderful community…. The live music was really moving, and it took me by surprise for there to be a live element. I found the storytelling really moving and there were lovely moments of laughter. I think every town and city should have something like this…. The architecture and murals throughout the town are incredible. Couldn’t recommend it enough!”

“I loved hearing from the people of Rochdale; the sound was amazing and enjoyed the interactive elements. Hot chocolate was a lovely bonus too.”

“Enjoyed every minute of the experience. The very friendly, happy, positive vibes from all the staff/ volunteers was amazing ,thank you so much. I felt really welcome in joining the experience on my own. I felt very safe and was greeted with warmth & kindness by all. The commitment, detail & hard work shone through.”

Bookings

The series of performances have been heavily booked so Breaking Barriers are increasing the opportunities to experience Stories We Tell. Tickets are free and can be booked on the Breaking Barriers website. I’d strongly recommend getting tickets if you can, this is a unique and very rewarding experience.

About Breaking Barriers

Breaking Barriers creates films, theatre, immersive experiences and outdoor productions with communities and artists from diverse backgrounds. Our work aims to elevate local voices, challenge perceptions, and reimagine how places and communities are seen and understood.

Breaking Barriers Creative Director, Parvez Qadir, developed the Stories We Tell concept during and after the Covid-19 lockdowns as a way to boost community, help getting people active and involved, and to help rebuild confidence and pride in our town. After an initial, smaller scale event in Rochdale, Breaking Barriers delivered a series of events in Nelson and have now brought this new and bigger experience back to Rochdale as part of Rochdale’s year as Greater Manchester’s Town of Culture.

Breaking Barriers Mission:

To create ambitious, high-quality creative work with communities, giving people the tools, platforms and confidence to share their stories.

Breaking Barriers Vision:

A creative sector and society where everyone’s voices are heard, valued and celebrated.

About Young Company

This new Young Company brings together emerging artists aged 18 to 25 who have a connection to Rochdale. The programme offers a paid, hands-on opportunity to develop professional skills, collaborate with industry practitioners and contribute meaningfully to an ambitious, community-centred production. This model allows young creatives to gain experience across film, sound design, production, direction and community engagement, while working on a high-profile commission as part of Rochdale Town of Culture. Their goal is to support the next generation of Rochdale based creatives by creating paid opportunities for progression.

The Young Company is supported by Arts Council England.

Contacts:

Breaking Barriers: www.breakingbarriersrochdale.co.uk

Ed Jamil - Instagram: @edjam.music

Rochdale Town of Culture: https://www.rochdalecreates.co.uk/townofculture