Corby residents with experiences of living and growing up in the “New Town” era were asked to share their memories for a new series of cultural projects.
60 miles was started for the first time in Northampton – another designated “New Town” where residents reflect on their experiences with their hometowns.
People are asked to write, record and share their stories and participate in Zoom chats about Corby led by playwright Ryan Leder.
Corby was named a new town in 1950
A 60 Miles spokesman said: “In 1950, after 20 years of rapid population growth and Scottish migration, Corby was one of the first places in Britain to be designated as a New Town.
“We want to hear your stories about this period of Corby’s rich history and how you are feeling about your hometown today.”
For the past three years in 1968, playwright Ryan Leder has spoken to Northampton residents about the name New Town. Now it’s Corby’s turn.
Starting Monday April 26th, Mr Leder will be hosting a drop-in-zoom call where people can share their stories about what made Corby the town it is today.
60 Miles comes to Corby and needs your help
60 Miles comes to Corby and needs your helpHe said, “Come for five minutes or come with a cup of tea and stay the whole hour. This is an invitation for people to share and hear the stories of Corby’s past from their own residents.”
Mr. Leder has been teaching writers in Corby for a year at The Core in the Corw Cube Playwright Ensemble, where he was introduced to Corby in 2012 as part of the theater’s Young Actors program.
He has since become a playwright himself and regularly produces works in Northamptonshire as a solo artist and with his theater company, Theater In Black.
The 60 mile team is particularly keen to hear from voices from underrepresented sections of the community to get involved in the arts.
Corporation Street, Corby, before the taxi rank was relocated
Corporation Street, Corby, before the taxi rank was relocatedPeople can also get involved through the 60 mile website by sharing stories – whether they are based in Corby, have since moved, or just went through it – share photos and memories from the past and present, or share your story in person for the East Midlands Oral History Archive.
An interactive open day event will also take place in September 2021, dealing with Neustadt’s legacy.
You can sign up to attend the session by clicking here or if you’d prefer to share your story in the email at ryan@60milesbyroadorrail.co.uk.
To learn more about the 60 mile project, click here
The city has a distinctive architectureCorby Forest Gate
The city has a distinctive architecture
Corby Forest Gate