Lights! Camera! Action!

A day of expert talks exploring the performing and cinematic arts in the Black Country. Our speakers will take you on a behind the scenes tour of the Black Country’s global contribution to music, theatre, comedy, poetry and film. What makes the region’s sense of humour unique? How did a Dudley-born lad become Hollywood’s highest paid director and help define a cinematic genre? What place does poetry hold in Black Country culture? How did a Black Country company kick start a rock ‘n’ roll revolution? These are just some of the questions that will be raised during this insightful, fun and informative day.

This study day includes several talks and a screening in the museum’s 1920s Limelight Cinema, plus lunch and refreshments.

Confirmed speakers include:

James Laney – the Black Country’s rock and roll connections

Josiane Boutonnet – finding our Black Country funny roots

Dr Rob Francis – talking about poetry in the Black Country

Craig Denston – the life of Dudley-born Hollywood film director, James Whale

Dr Jefny Ashcroft – Black Country history and how it can make gripping theatre

Dr Sarah Whitfield – diversity in Black Country performance, 1900-1950

Provisional Schedule*

09:30-10:00 Arrival, registration and tea/coffee

10:00-10:15 Welcome and housekeeping (JG)

10:15-11:00 Music – James Laney, CEO Laney Amplification

11:00-12:00 Humour – Dr Josiane Boutonnet, University of Wolverhampton

12:00-12:45 Lunch

12:45-13:15 Drama – Dr Jefny Ashcroft, playwright

13:15-14:00 Theatre and Variety Halls – Dr Sarah Whitfield, University of Wolverhampton

14:00-14:15 Coffee break

14:15-15:00 Poetry – Dr Rob Francis, University of Wolverhampton

15:00-15:15 Move to Limelight Cinema

15:15-15:30 Talk on Limelight Cinema and short screening

15:30-16:30 Cinema – Craig Denston, Independent Researcher

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About BCSC Study Days

BCSC Study Days are your chance to dig deeper into the Black Country’s past, present and future. They bring together specially selected speakers to cover unexpected and overlooked aspects of the region’s culture, industry, traditions and history. The days are relaxed and friendly, with chance to explore aspects of the museum and collections. They are ideal for anyone with an interest in the area who wants discover more and see the region from a fresh perspective. 

*The schedule may change slightly ahead of the event. Attendees will be notified of any changes.