Northern Silents: The Bamforth story: how Holmfirth entertained the nation

Northern Silents: The Bamforth story: how Holmfirth entertained the nation Step back in time with this unique concert‑film experience, celebrating one of Holmfirth’s most iconic heritage tales. Hosted on free admission as part of Holmfirth Heritage Week and Heritage Open Days, the event brings together the town’s rich past and the spirited present. Meet Katina Bill, Senior Curator at Kirklees Museums and Galleries, who will chart the remarkable journey of Bamforth & Co. From James Bamforth’s 1870 founding through centuries of Victorian postcards, bawdy seaside cards, and lantern slides, Katina will illuminate how these visual treasures captured everyday life and became part of the country’s cultural fabric. Artistic director Jonny Best will then showcase a curated selection of Bamforth’s early lantern slides and short films. With live musical accompaniment, he will trace the company’s pioneering role in early 20th‑century entertainment and the birth of cinema, breathing new life into scenes that shaped an entire generation’s imagination. This immersive program is a heartfelt celebration of how one entrepreneur’s vision sparked a century of creativity in the heart of Holmfirth, influencing audiences across the nation and beyond. Join us for an unforgettable evening of vibrant imagery, historic narration, and live music that pays tribute to a remarkable chapter in the valley’s legacy.