An invitation to be part of

Opal’s Comet and CultureDale

(Calderdale Year of Culture 2024)

This work is programmed as one of 11 key commissions for CultureDale (Calderdale Year of Culture 2024). The live performances will take place on the Rochdale Canal and Calder Hebble Navigation from 22nd - 27th May (12-4pm).

Audiences are invited to accompany us on the journey via the tow paths and bridges, as we sail the length of the valley.

As the crew of Opal’s Comet navigate the real-world challenges of boat life, their vessel is in continuous motion and functions as both exhibition space and stage. The voyage is sound-tracked by a live band, performing a newly composed song-cycle. Each song explores different aspects and expressions of grief.

Here’s where you come in …These songs are also our special invitation to the people of Calderdale; to gain deeper insight into the mythology of the project, explore it’s themes and be part of this unique creative pilgrimage. We know that singing together brings great comfort and camaraderie in difficult times so we’d like to come and visit your groups, to sing with you. 

As custodians of the project you might then learn the songs below and sing along as audience at live events. You might just enjoy listening and experiencing them and share the songs with family and friends.  You might use them as a catalyst, to approach conversations about grief in a new way. Or maybe you might just put on your favourite yellow scarf and come and find us on a tow path near you.

Our hope is that Opal’s Comet will bring Calderdale together, to acknowledge what’s been lost in recent years but also celebrate all that remains.