New storytelling performance brings Dartmoor folklore to life

Dartmoor’s myths and legends will take centre stage this March as "Chasing Crockern," a compelling new storytelling performance, embarks on a tour across the moor. The show promises to transport audiences into the heart of Dartmoor’s folklore, blending traditional tales with the voices and sounds of the landscape.

At the core of "Chasing Crockern" is a spellbinding tale: On a stormy night, a midwife is roused by a mysterious visitor, pleading for help for his ailing wife. As she races through unfamiliar lanes to an ancient cottage, she soon realises that nothing is as it seems. As the mist rolls over the tors and rivers whisper their secrets, the midwife’s midnight mission takes an unexpected turn.

Guided by storytellers Sara Hurley and Lisa Schneidau, the performance intertwines Dartmoor’s ancient creation myths, medieval legends, and everyday encounters, creating an immersive experience that blurs the lines between folklore and reality.

"Chasing Crockern" has been developed through deep engagement with local communities, drawing from Dartmoor’s rich storytelling tradition. Produced in collaboration with Devon arts charity Villages in Action, the project has been supported by a network of creative partners dedicated to preserving and sharing the region’s cultural heritage.

Storyteller Sara Hurley said: “I’ve lived in South Dartmoor for nearly 30 years, raising my family here and working on various arts and community projects. 'Chasing Crockern' has been a fantastic opportunity to deepen my connection with this extraordinary place. Exploring new landscapes, hearing incredible personal stories, and uncovering fresh meaning in folk tales has been truly rewarding.”

Co-performer Lisa Schneidau added: “Although I have lived on Dartmoor for over a decade, our journey with 'Chasing Crockern' has introduced me to many different versions of Dartmoor that I didn’t know existed. Everyone has their own relationship with this special place. The stories we have heard have been funny, touching, and deeply thought-provoking.”

Alongside the performances, an exhibition curated by Monica-Shanta will showcase the work of young Dartmoor residents, featuring photography, video, sound clips, illustrations, and collected stories. The exhibition will run at Field System Gallery in Ashburton from 10th to 15th March.

The tour, made possible with support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund and Arts Council England, will visit six locations across Dartmoor:

• Friday 7th March, 7.30pm – Princetown Community Centre

• Saturday 8th March, 7.30pm – Cornwood Village Hall

• Friday 14th March, 7.30pm – Ashburton Arts Centre

• Saturday 15th March, 7.30pm – Wickham Hall, Bovey Tracey

• Friday 21st March, 7.30pm – Jubilee Hall, Chagford

• Saturday 22nd March, 7.30pm – Charter Hall, Okehampton

For tickets and further details, visit villagesinaction.co.uk/crockern