What is a Crankie Theatre?

Also known as a Crankie Machine. A traditional 19th century storytelling device.

​By turning a crank, an illustrated scroll is pulled across an illuminated screen in a box. As the images pass the screen, the story-teller narrates. Once a popular form of entertainment, Crankies went out of fashion when the cinema was invented but are recently seeing a resurgence. 

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In this workshop you will explore what story you want to tell; design a storyboard; build your crankie theatre; and finally illustrate your story scroll. You will then have your very own crankie theatre to perform with and share stories with friends and family. Optional film recording aspect.

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Length: 4-6 hours

Set up: Tables and chairs

Ages: 12+ up to adults