Iron People @ Eureka! Grand Finale Performance
Saturday 26 April, performance at 3pm
From 12pm
There will be free creative activities and stalls: explore water, music, and creativity through a hands-on water flow installation, making and playing instruments with river-found objects, and family-friendly crafts with the Eureka! team.
2pm - 2.30pm
Special Guest CBeebies’ Mr. Bloom opens the event to celebrate the INCREDIBLE community achievement of Iron People in Calderdale! There’ll be a bunch of veggie stories, gardening games, catchy songs for parents and tiddlers alike.
From 3pm
The grand finale performance!
Approx 45 mins.
Featuring giant puppet creatures, Elland Silver Band, and a community cast of actors with professional performers.
We invite you to witness a monumental outdoor performance at Eureka!
Inspired by Ted Hughes’ The Iron Man and The Iron Woman, this is the spectacular grand finale to our year-long project, telling a new myth for Calderdale as giant creatures emerge from different parts of the valley to confront us about our treatment of the planet.
Made by and for the people of Calderdale, the event features three puppet creatures based on designs by Illustrator Chris Mould and local children from Todmorden, Sowerby Bridge, and Park Ward, brought to life by Thingumajig Theatre. Musicians from the Elland Silver Band organisation will perform a powerful live soundtrack, including three specially commissioned pieces.
The story begins as the three giants emerge from Calderdale’s rivers, moors, and streets. Joined by local children, they march together to demand action to save the planet. The grand finale will invite everyone – including you – to build a more hopeful future.
Don’t miss this free, family-friendly event, blending music, puppetry, and community spirit into a brand-new myth for Calderdale.
Please note: Iron People @ Eureka! will be BSL Interpreted!
When
Saturday 26 April
Creative activities from 12pm
CBeebies’ Mr Bloom at 2pm
Finale performance at 3pm
Where
Outside Eureka! The National Children’s Museum
Discovery Rd
Halifax
HX1 2NE
Price
This outdoor event is free, but normal admission to the Eureka! museum applies if you wish to visit.
No need to book – drop in on the day!
Rehearsal photos by Ant Robling
FAQs!
Will the event go ahead in all weather?
We’re a hardy bunch! The event will go ahead in light rain, so please dress for the weather. However, for everyone’s safety, we will cancel in the event of extreme weather such as storms or high winds. Keep an eye on our social media on the day for updates.
Are there toilets on site?
Yes – there will be portaloos available near the event area.
Where can I get food and drink?
The café at Eureka! is open for museum visitors only. If you’re not visiting the museum, there are plenty of shops and cafés nearby in Halifax town centre (just a short walk away). We recommend bringing your own lunch or snacks – there are picnic benches outside Eureka! where you’re welcome to eat.
How long is the performance at 3pm?
The main show starts at 3pm and lasts approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Is seating provided?
We have a limited number of seats available for those who need them. Please let a volunteer know if you need assistance, they will be wearing Northern Broadsides hi vis jackets. If you’re able to stand, please do – or feel free to bring a picnic blanket or camping chairs for comfort.
Where do I need to stand if I use BSL?
Signage will be provided on site. You can ask any staff member on the day.
Do I need a ticket to attend?
Nope! The event is completely free and open to all – just come along and enjoy the day.
Who is the event for?
This is a family-friendly event with something for all ages to enjoy.
Recommended age for the main show at 3pm: 6+
Recommended age for CBeebies’ Mr Bloom : 0-5
Is the event accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes! The Eureka! grounds are accessible for wheelchair users and an area of the crowd will be set aside to ensure you can get a great view of the action.
Are there any warnings I should be aware of?
The show contains some loud noises, non-toxic smoke and large puppet monsters.
Can I bring my dog?
Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed on the grounds of Eureka!, so please leave your furry friends at home.
Where exactly is the event taking place?
You’ll find us in the outdoor area just outside the Eureka! museum in Halifax, we have built a stage where the sandpit usually is – you can’t miss us!
I have more questions!
Have a question that’s not covered here? Get in touch with us on social media or at info@northern-broadsides.co.uk
This project is funded by The National Lottery Community Fund, CultureDale, Community Foundation for Calderdale’s Community Grants for Climate Action Fund, Calderdale Council’s Culture Fund, the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, Tracy Brabin Mayor of West Yorkshire’s Safer Communities Fund, and The Liz and Terry Bramall Foundation.