Speed History - A Short Course
Schedule
Sat Feb 14 2026 at 10:30 am to 03:30 pm
UTC+00:00Location
Oxford House in Bethnal Green | London, EN
About this Event
Speed History - A Short Course
Telling East End Tales
Following on from our Speed History taster on 5th February, these free weekly workshops will develop performance skills and creative writing, devising short pieces of site-specific performance for a unique event in the hidden spaces of Oxford House on 7 March.
Calling all storytellers … bring history to life at Oxford House!
- Are you interested in uncovering the history of East London?
- Do you want to explore creative storytelling?
- Do you want to be part of a unique event that brings local characters to life in a special setting?
We’re looking for volunteers to take part in Speed History: a FREE storytelling programme.
Speed History includes a series of workshops and a performance event that explores the history of Oxford House and Bethnal Green through an exciting programme of creative writing and performance.
What is Speed History about?
Behind the facts and dates of local history are living, breathing people who shared the streets we walk on. In these fun, practical workshops, you’ll help bring their stories to life.
What you'll do:
· Learn how to shape and share historical stories.
· Develop skills in writing, confidence and performance.
· Create short site-specific storytelling pieces.
· Perform in our immersive Speed History event in the hidden corners of Oxford House.
No experience needed, just your curiosity and imagination.
The Speed History Programme will be led by Alan Gilbey: an award-winning screenwriter specialising in animation, who runs creative workshops for all levels in scripting for film, radio and TV.
Alan is also a lifelong East Ender, a former community drama worker for the borough and co-creator of unique comedy walking tours around Spitalfields.
What people say about Speed History:
“Brilliantly delivered”
“Fabulous and full of surprises”
“A beautiful, funny, moving experience.”
Key Dates
Story Structure Workshop:
Saturday 14 February 2026 | 10.30am–3.30pm
Story Development Workshop:
Saturday 21 February 2026 | 10.30am–3.30pm
Performance Development Workshop:
Thursday 26 February 2026 | 7pm-9pm
Dress Rehearsal:
Thursday 5 March 2026 | 7pm-9pm
Public Performances:
Saturday 7 March 2026 | 12pm - 5:30pm (1st performance at 1pm and 2nd performance at 4pm)
Interested?
Get involved and help history come alive!
Sign up today
Where is it happening?
Oxford House in Bethnal Green, Derbyshire Street, London, United KingdomEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
GBP 0.00
