Families and residents came together at Haslingden Library recently for a unique celebration of the traditional storytelling artform known as Crankies.
The event, part of the Haslingden Big Lamp Project, invited people of all ages to make their own crankie theatres and enjoy performances and talks exploring this fascinating historic craft.
A crankie is a traditional visual storytelling device – a long, illustrated scroll wound onto two spools and housed inside a box with a viewing window. As the scroll is hand-cranked, a sequence of images appears in motion, bringing stories to life alongside music, narration or song.
The event was organised by local artist Tom Byrne, who secured funding through the National Lottery Heritage Fund that funds Haslingden Big Lamp Project, which offers grants of up to £3,000 to support community events and training opportunities in Haslingden.
Tom said: “Thanks so much to everyone who came out to Haslingden Library. We had a wonderful time watching performances, listening to interesting talks, and making crankie theatres together. It was brilliant seeing how creative the people of our community are and watching people young and old alike create stories together via the magical scrolling storytelling devices that are crankie theatres”
Visitors described the event as inspiring and full of charm. One participant commented: “What a wonderful idea. We didn't even know what a crankie was when we came. Now this is something we'll be able to make more of at home, and it can be a whole series of stories.”
Cllr Samara Barnes from Rossendale Borough Council, said: “It’s fantastic to see the Big Lamp Project continuing to spark creativity and bring people together in Haslingden. Crankie Day was a perfect example of how art, heritage and community spirit can combine to create something truly special. Congratulations to Tom and everyone involved.”
The storytelling magic will continue in Haslingden as part of the Christmas Light Switch On event on Friday 5th December, where visitors can enjoy a special crankie performance about local legend Michael Davitt alongside festive entertainment, food, and family fun.
