The Mid-Winter Hullabaloo Brings Light, Story and Song to West Cumbria
This January, Handpicked Productions invites communities across West Cumbria to come together for The Mid-Winter Hullabaloo, a joyful, immersive celebration of light, warming food, storytelling, music and shared moments. Taking place from 23–25 January, the Hullabaloo will travel through Moresby, Egremont and Cleator Moor, bringing warmth and connection to the darkest days of winter.
The Mid-Winter Hullabaloo is a half-forgotten secret, a whisper carried through forests, villages and towns. Rooted in ancient winter rituals that once united communities at midwinter, the project reimagines these traditions for today and for future generations. Co-created with local people, the Hullabaloo celebrates folklore, play and curiosity, weaving together past and present to spark new traditions that reflect who we are now.
Developed in close partnership with Montreal, Bookwell and Moresby Primary Schools, the project also involves community groups including The Living Room, Friends of Egremont Castle, Goodlives, Florence Arts Walking Group, and local Warm Hubs. Handpicked Productions also thanks Rosehill Theatre for their hospitality and support during the project’s development.
Writer Emma McGordon worked with community groups and young people from Art Gyms to create a brand-new Mummers Play, inspired by shared stories and experiences from across West Cumbria. The short, playful performance is filled with humour and local references.
Artist Janice Murray collaborated with families, schools and young people through the SumArt To Do programme to explore what a Hullabaloo might be, while composer Anna Pool worked closely with local schools to co-create original songs, placing young voices at the heart of the celebration.
Local families, friends and neighbours are now invited to come together to search for the Hullabaloo — and see where it leads.
Event Dates & Locations
Friday 23 January – Moresby School, finishing at Moresby Rugby Union Club
Saturday 24 January – Egremont Castle, finishing at the Market Hall
Sunday 25 January – Cleator Moor Square, finishing at the Civic Hall
Time: 4.30pm–8.00pm
Tickets: £8 | Party of 4 £30 (includes food and a warm drink)
Booking: www.handpickedproductions.org
What to Expect
The Parade
Communities gather for a short, guided parade led by Master of Ceremonies Jessie McMeekin, accompanied by original songs by Anna Pool, before heading indoors for warmth, food and drink.
The Mummers Play
Written by Emma McGordon, this pantomime-style performance follows the characters of Moresby, Egremont and Cleator Moor as they search their streets and stories for signs of the Hullabaloo.
The Party
If the Hullabaloo is found, the evening bursts into celebration, led by the Hullabaloo band Tryckster, with music, games and singing for all ages.
Spot the Hullabaloos
Small handmade objects, created by schools, community groups and visitors, appear throughout the evening. Keep an eye out, and take one home as a keepsake.
Funding & Support
The Mid-Winter Hullabaloo is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Arts Council England, with additional support from Friends of Egremont Castle, Mahogany Opera Group, and Rosehill Theatre. Tickets are heavily subsidised to ensure the event remains accessible to all.
Share It:
