A FASCINATING new website presenting Dartmoor's history and ecology through the performing arts is being launched today (Thursday), thanks to a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund and Dartmoor National Park Authority.
The new online contemporary archive and forum Dartmoor Resource, has been created by MED Theatre. The project aims to make knowledge about Dartmoor accessible to a wider audience.
The history of theatre on Dartmoor is introduced by animator Sarah Vincent with a hand-drawn animation depicting the great Jacobean playwright John Ford, who originated from Ilsington.
Volunteers have created articles, filmed animations and composed songs for the website based on their research into Dartmoor's past, including the myths of Childe the Hunter and Jan Coo. Another branch of investigation has led to the historical roots of Dartmoor's version of Robin Hood, Roger Rowle.
Dartmoor Resource volunteer Janet Coopey said: 'It was fascinating to delve into the rich history associated with stone circles and contrast that with how Dartmoor is being used for dance today.'
The website also features performances, songs and dance work inspired by tales such as that of Kitty Jay whose haunting end also inspired the work of Mercury Prize nominee singer/ songwriter Seth Lakeman.
The primary schools of Chagford and Okehampton have also played a key role in contributing to the website, using the inspiration of existing Dartmoor myths to create their own chilling modern day versions.
Shadow puppet maker Willem Montagne of the Dartmoor National Park and animation tutor Tanya Morel assisted education worker Clare Saunders in a programme of twelve MED Theatre workshops delivered in the two schools over the spring term.
Artistic director Mark Beeson said: 'Dartmoor Resource represents a landmark in MED Theatre's mission to make our roots more apparent to us, helping us to learn from history through the process of being entertained by it.'
The site will provide updates for researchers and university students, while at the same time entertaining and informing members of the community including young people and children.
The inspiration for the site came from research into the history of theatre on Dartmoor, for which MED Theatre received a Stephen Joseph Award from the Society for Theatre History Research in 1996.
The work to create it has been led by volunteers, who have attended courses given in various locations round about Dartmoor to equip them with the skills required.
To view all of this work and much more get ready to log on to http://www.dartmoorresource.co.uk">www.dartmoorresource.co.uk