Chain Stories is an exciting site-specific performance telling the story of those who came to contact with the chains made in the Black Country, and how that links the region to Commonwealth Countries.  

Incorporating dance, live music, narration with BSL interpretation and an outdoor exhibition of original artworks and historic photographs, you will follow the chains on their journey encountering different people from the ground to the forge, along the canals, across the sea to Ghana, Grenada and back again. Each story presents how this journey led to the wonderful multicultural society we live in today.

Through live performance, Chain Stories explores the struggles of those exploited in the push for cheaper labour & more profit spurred by the Industrial Revolution in the UK, and its global expansion. It focuses on real life people who fought for equality in small and large ways – the fight for women’s rights, freedom from slavery and against racial oppression, while exploring the change in attitudes and slow progress for racial, gender and economic equality which people are still fighting for today.

Performed by:

ME Dance Professional Company, ME Dance Youth and Graduate Company, NOYAM African Dance Institute (Ghana), Conception Dance Theatre (Grenada), Eloquent Praise Dance Company, Kidderminster College and Molly's Dance Group

The Making of Documentary 

As a part of the Birmingham 2022 Festival, ME Dance Company worked with professional companies and community organisations from across the Midlands, Ghana and Grenada to create an outdoor, site specific performance looking at the Black Country’s connection with the commonwealth.
 
This documentary follows the making of the piece, including rehearsal and performance footage, interviews with participants and performers. Showing the inner working of the company, its success and trials as they put together their biggest project to date.
 
 
This project was made possible thanks to the generous support of The British Council, Arts Council England, Canal and River Trust and Black Country Touring.
 
Tickets to this screening are free. Advanced booking is advised.
 
Running Time: Approx 60 minutes
 
Booking Link: thehubstmarys.co.uk

 

 

Website: medancecompany.co.uk

Facebook | Instagram 

Generously supported by British Council, Arts Council England and the National Lottery Heritage Fund.