Scunthorpe shines as residents take centre stage in powerful new film honouring 80 years of VE and VJ Day

The spirit of North Lincolnshire will light up Scunthorpe Central as local people star in Then and Now – a moving new film celebrating community, courage, and the enduring legacy of freedom.

Projected on a grand scale onto the front of Scunthorpe Central, the premiere promises a spectacular night of song, dance, and remembrance, bringing history vividly to life through the eyes of local residents.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said: “This project shows the real strength of creativity in our communities. So many people have come together to share their talents, tell their stories, and create something that will stay with audiences for years to come. It’s fantastic to see local people at the heart of a project that celebrates who we are and where we’ve come from.”

Over the summer, more than 170 people from across the region – including dancers, school pupils, and even an animal actor – joined forces to tell a story of love, loss, and resilience that continues to echo through generations.

Working with choreographer Fred Garland of Tenfoot Dance Company and filmed by Laramedia, the production gave two local dancers their first professional opportunity and turned the community itself into the cast, crew, and creative heart of the project.

Cllr John Davison, cabinet member for community wellbeing (urban), added: “By bringing this story to life in such an accessible and engaging way, we’re making culture something everyone can experience and enjoy. It’s wonderful to see so many local people involved in a project that connects our history with our future.”

The free premiere takes place on Tuesday 11 November, with the film projection at 6.30pm and live performances from 5.30pm to 7.30pm. The accompanying exhibition will also open inside Scunthorpe Central, offering a deeper look at the memories and moments that inspired the film.

Visitors are encouraged to wrap up warm, as parts of the event will take place outside. Entry is free, with refreshments available for purchase.

The film will also be screened inside during the course of the evening.

Elements of the original set have been rebuilt across the ground and first floors of Scunthorpe Central, forming part of a wider exhibition shaped by creative responses from local groups including North Lincolnshire Veterans Hub, Scunthorpe Church of England Primary School, Speak Out Scunny CIC, North Lincolnshire Sanctuary Group, and the North Lincolnshire Museum Young Historians.

The exhibition runs until 31 January 2026 at Scunthorpe Central. Opening hours are Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, and Saturday, 9am to 1pm.

Events including dance workshops and reminiscence sessions are planned as part of the exhibition – to find out more, visit www.2021visualartscentre.co.uk/then-and-now.

Then and Now is part of Our Freedom: Then and Now – a UK-wide arts initiative led by Future Arts Centres, marking 80 years since VE and VJ Day.