Our Freedom: Then and Now
Kirkgate Arts and Heritage are a part of the Our Freedom: Then and Now project. Sixty arts centres and libraries across Britain are taking part in nationwide celebrations reflecting on what freedom means 80 years after the end of the Second World War.
We are working with two local artists, storyteller Jessie McMeekin and musician JP Worsfold, to create a community musical that will be performed by local people at Cockermouth’s Christmas Lights Switch-On on Sunday, 23rd November, and at The Kirkgate Centre on 14th December.
The musical is inspired by stories from Cockermouth at the end of the Second World War and in the post-war period, using research from the Cockermouth Heritage Collection, alongside reflections from the people living in the town today on what freedom means to them.
Find out more about the project and how you can get involved.
About Us
The Kirkgate Centre is an entertainment and cultural venue at the heart of the lively community of Cockermouth, Cumbria.
We celebrate our local talent and heritage, and bring top quality professional entertainment to
our town and many other communities across the area to the west of the Lake District National Park.
Whether you enjoy films on a big screen, live music, theatre, exhibitions, shows for children and families or community events, Kirkgate has something for everyone. Our quirky character makes us a special venue for weddings, parties, festivals and conferences.
Our mission:
“Creative talent is valued, developed, and supported with opportunities for all to actively engage with and enjoy the arts, our local heritage and community life”
Our values:
Commitment – Our staff and volunteers are dedicated to delivering our mission.
Inclusion – We aim to make art, heritage, and culture accessible to all our communities.
Sustainability – We aim to ensure that the organisation is secure for future generations from both financial and environmental perspective.
Nurturing – We aim to provide an environment that encourages growth, development of skills confidence and enjoyment for all.
WHAT’S ON
The Singing Bones – Workshop at St Bees Village Hall
31st October 2025 10:00am
St Bees Village Hall
On 31st October the cast of The Singing Bones (storyteller Jessie McMeekin and musical collaborators Anne-Marie Sanderson and Jordan Worsfold) will bring a fun and varied interactive workshop to St Bees Village Hall. For ages 8+, the workshopwill use creative writing, movement, drama and singing to explore themes of nature and Cumbrian wildlife, past, present and future. What to bring: ...
The Life of Chuck (15)
31st October 2025 7:00pm (Doors open at 6:00 pm)
Kirkgate Centre
From childhood to adulthood, Charles "Chuck" Krantz experiences the wonder of love, the heartbreak of loss, and the multitudes contained in all of us. Co-written by Stephen King, based on his 2020 novella from his compilation book If it Bleeds. ‘Part end-of-the-world drama, part musical, part coming-of-age ghost story, The Life Of Chuck won’t please everyone. But, if you open ...
Crafts@Kirkgate: Rag Rug Workshop
1st November 2025 10:00am
Kirkgate Centre
Make a rag rug out of recycled clothes! Learn a traditional craft and recycle / repurpose worn out clothing. Make a really special Christmas gift. All materials included. A light lunch is included in the price, or you are welcome to bring your own. Any questions, please ask info@cumberlandragrugs.co.uk
Whisky Tasting
1st November 2025 7:00pm
Kirkgate Centre
Led by local whisky enthusiast Stephen Walker, the tasting will consist of five single malt whiskies (25 ml measures) with a cask strength whisky included in the tasting. During the tasting, Stephen will talk about the whisky making process and the whisky industry. A two-course meal will be provided, prepared and cooked by Helen, Stephen’s wife, When booking please let ...