Filmmakers wanted to help tell Chesterfield’s story
People from across Chesterfield, Bolsover and North East Derbyshire are being invited to pick up their smartphones and be part of something special, as Chesterfield Champion Junction Arts celebrates 50 years of bringing creativity to our communities.
To mark this milestone, the charity has launched 50 Stories for 50 Years, a year-long project capturing the voices, memories and impact of since it began in 1976. Alongside a new documentary film, the project will also create a digital archive of local stories and a touring exhibition, appearing at popular events including the Chesterfield Children’s Festival, Tapton Lock Festival and Bright Winter Nights.
Now, local people aged 14 and over are being invited to get involved as community filmmakers.
This is a chance to help capture the spirit of our area, from festivals and events to behind-the-scenes moments, all contributing to a special anniversary film set to premiere in January 2027.
The documentary is also being led by Chesterfield Champion, filmmaker Matthew Pritchard of Defeye Creative, bringing together archive footage with new clips filmed by the community.
From its early days in South Normanton to becoming an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation, Junction Arts has spent five decades creating opportunities for people to connect, get creative and feel inspired. Its work includes much-loved events such as the Bolsover Lantern Parade, as well as a wide range of activities that reach thousands of people every year.
Nathan Hamer, Project and Volunteers Coordinator at Junction Arts, said:
“We’re looking for enthusiastic participants to capture short moments on film; these clips will help build a community-powered documentary celebrating 50 years of creativity.”
No filmmaking experience is needed to take part. Volunteers will receive a free one-hour training session covering simple filming techniques.
Filmmaker Matthew Pritchard added,:
“This is about ‘community capture’. Junction Arts is rooted in the people it works with, so it feels right that the community helps tell this story. You don’t need to be a filmmaker — if you’ve got a smartphone and want to get involved, we’ll show you everything you need to know.”
Participants can contribute as much or as little time as they like, whether filming a single event or multiple moments across the year. All contributors will be credited in the final film.
To sign up for a training session or find out more, contact: nathan@junctionarts.org
50 Stories for 50 Years has been made possible by The National Lottery Heritage Fund and National Lottery players. You can find out more by visiting: https://junctionarts.org/50stories/
Junction Arts and Defeye Creative are both one of over 230 Chesterfield organisations that are proud to support the local economy, working closely with Destination Chesterfield to showcase Chesterfield and North Derbyshire as a destination to live, work, visit and invest.
Find out more about our Champions network.
