Everyone welcome at Storyhouse Elders Festival

Storyhouse Elders - and not quite so elder - in action. Pic: Mark McNulty

Chester Storyhouse's Elders Festival is back in October for five days (October 13-17) of music, theatre, talks, photography, workshops, wellness and crafts, all celebrating creativity in later life.

All are welcome, whether you're keen to try something new, reconnect with an old creative spark or simply want an interesting day out.

Head of creative communities at Storyhouse, Carys Williams, said “Storyhouse Elders is a week where everyone, of any age, is invited to be creative.”

Monday opens with a launch event featuring local favourites Rock Choir, alongside Sankofa Singers from Ready Generations, hosted by actor Nick Fry. In the Garret Theatre upstairs there's a performance by Doms & Dahlias, a theatre company of African-Caribbean women sharing stories through music, dance and memories of the Manchester music scene.

Tuesday is all about storytelling. Reverend Dr Andrea Russell, director of Gladstone’s Library, will talk about her life shaped by books, while poet and rapper Joy France, who began her performance career in her sixties, offers a creative workshop on finding and writing your story.

Wednesday celebrates endurance, courage and connection, with inspiration from Rachel Smith — ocean rower, paramedic and double Guinness World Record holder — and Nicola Marshall, a grief counsellor and hypnotherapist, who will offer practical guidance on overcoming anxiety and trauma. Two guided walks through Chester will explore the city’s literary and historical landscape.

Thursday welcomes back festival favourite and award-winning photographer Jim Holmes, sharing powerful stories from the Mekong River and - closer to home - the River Dee.

Friday rounds off the week with actor Janice Fryett leading a workshop on voice, confidence and expression, followed by an inter-generational finale of song and performance in The Kitchen.

All events are pay what you can (£0–£5), making the festival as accessible as possible for all.

More info and booking here