The Vital Spark

A large scale site specific community performance at Moira Furnace, Leicestershire.

Against the backdrop of a newly restored Napoleonic blast furnace, a cast of locals and a brass band took us back to look at the history of Sir Francis Rawdon, second Earl of Moira, for whom the place is named, and his exploits around the globe. But shifting through time, we discovered the past that followed Rawdon – pits, pots and pipes – and met the curious characters and events that shaped the village. Home made sweets, the washing of canaries, ice-breaking barges and – of course – the infamous pig on the wall.

Produced with North West Leicestershire District Council, Mantle Community Arts and Wet Arts Company. Funded by the National Lottery Heritage scheme.