Penumbra: The Long and Peculiar Life of Jimmy Strength

Gareth Hudson & Jack Burton
Location: Dewar's Lane Granary
UK / 2011 / 15 min / Cert. N/A

World Premiere

This newly commissioned 3D projection will light the face of the 250-year old Granary building through state of the art animation. Inspired by local legend, and the films of Lotte Reiniger, Penumbra projects tales from Berwick on to one of the town’s most unique locations.

Having researched Berwick folklore, and talking to those who know, Gareth & Jack happened upon the tales of Jimmy Strength, a local strongman known for having had 26 children to 6 different wives, for living to be 115, and for playing violin rather badly. This film follows the life (and not to ruin for you but also the death) of this unlikely hero, whose memorial statue at Pavillion Green recently went missing. 

The work features an original score by Serbian musician Manja Ristic, who, unlike Jimmy Strength, is known for her skills on the violin. Sound artist Jack Burton will also feature on the violin, playing Jimmy's parts, rather badly.

Recently restored and re-opened, the Granary Café will host a reception as part of the World Premiere.

Penumbra continues to be projected at Dewar's Lane Granary each evening of the Festival, Friday 23rd - Sunday 25th September, 20:00 - 22:30, as part of the Artists' Trail.