Exhibition Launch Refuge: Rossendale Stories. + Film : The Old Oak (15)

Exhibition Launch Refuge: Rossendale Stories. + Film : The Old Oak (15)

In collaboration with Rossendale Refugee Support Group and as part of Refugee Week (15 – 21 June 2026)
Horse + Bamboo presents an exhibition opening : Photographs by Benyamin Hemmati |  Refuge: Rossendale Stories followed by film screening of ‘The Old Oak’ (15)

Photography exhibition opening from 5pm – The evening will begin with a short video presentation by Benyamin Hemmati, showcasing his photography exhibition inspired by the Refugee Week theme and capturing stories and scenes from the local area.

FREE multicultural refreshments, children’s crafts, and henna hand painting

Film Screening from 6pm : The Old Oak (15)
THE OLD OAK is a special place.  Not only is it the last pub standing, but it’s also the only remaining public space where people can meet in a once thriving mining community that has now fallen on hard times after 30 years of decline.  TJ Ballantyne, the landlord, hangs on to The Old Oak by his fingertips, and his predicament is endangered even more when the pub becomes contested territory after the arrival of Syrian refugees who are placed in the village without any notice.

In an unlikely friendship TJ meets a curious young Syrian, Yara, with her camera.  Can they find a way for the two communities to understand each other?  So unfolds a deeply moving drama about their fragilities and hopes.

Watch the trailer here

Director : Ken Loach
Year : 2023

Please note : children under 15 are invited to attend the photography exhibition opening, however will not be able to attend the 6pm film screening.  Children & their families are welcome to stay in the cafe area for the duration of the film screening where crafts & refreshments will be available throughout.

This event is supported by Rossendale Borough Council.
Any donations raised at the event will go to Rossendale Refugee Support Group.

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Time
Exhibition Opening 5pm
Film Screening 6pm

Price
This is a free event supported by Rossendale Borough Council

More events from Refuge: Rossendale Stories
Thursday 18th June
The Whitaker Museum and Art Gallery  Refuge: Rossendale Stories