ATC to host jam-packed summer of events
Viking re-enactments will bring history to life at the ATC’s Open Weekend.
The Ancient Technology Centre has unveiled an exciting calendar of events for summer 2008 – meaning that there’s never been a better time to visit the site at Cranborne Chase, Dorset.
Fancy turning your hand to volunteering? The Centre is always looking for people to offer their time to its building projects – forthcoming volunteer dates are the 5 and 12 July.
For families looking for a different way to enjoy their spare time, the Centre’s Open Weekend to be held 19-20 July is the ideal way to experience what ATC has to offer.
Visitors can experience ancient crafts and skills first-hand, through the many demonstrations and activities which will be on offer during the weekend. A horde of Viking warriors will also be at the site, re-enacting battles and undertaking demonstrations and workshops. Or for those looking for a little piece of Viking heritage to take home with them, there will be special stalls selling re-created Viking crafts.
If you don’t get a chance to make it to the Open Weekend, ATC will also be open to the public 23-25 July. Volunteers will be working on building projects over the three days so this is the ideal time to see them in action.
Storytelling and music
For music lovers, the Midsummer Didge Camp scheduled for 21-22 June is the perfect opportunity to learn how to play the didgeridoo or dulcimer. The event will host a whole range of musical performances, as well as workshops and stalls.
Storytelling has long been one of the most enlightening ways of bringing history to life – and with ATC providing such an inspiring backdrop – it’s easy to see why the Centre’s storytelling events are a sell-out every time.
On 24 August, ATC will host ‘Once Apop a Snickety Wow!’ – featuring an enchanting selection of traditional stories given a contemporary twist by performer Jamie Crawford. The event will start at 12.30pm with a picnic, with stories following at 2pm.
ATC events are very popular with visitors and so it is advised you register your interest/buy tickets as early as possible. Tickets for the Open Weekend are priced at £5 for adults and £2.50 for children, whilst YAC members are free of charge. The Didge Camp is £15 for adults, £5 for 10-16 year-olds and is free for under-10s. Tickets for the storytelling afternoon are priced at £5 for adults and £3 for under-16s.
Call Pascale Barnes on: 01725 517618 or email: atc@dorsetcc.gov.uk to make sure you don’t miss out. Further information can also be found online at www.dorsetforyou.com
By Natasha Piscitelli
Ben Milward Gallery
A truly ancient experience
Literally a lifeline videos
