Biddies of Baltinglass is a storytelling project led by theatre artist Carmel Stephens, designed to bring together women in Baltinglass to share stories and explore the creative themes that connect them.
Carmel originally set out to deliver three storytelling workshops for women aged 35 and over. Hosted in the Lalor Centre, the group spanned a remarkable age range —from early 30s to late seventies.
The project began with gentle introductions to storytelling and group work, creating a supportive and welcoming space. Very quickly, it became clear that this was a group eager to share openly and embrace creative risk. The sessions naturally evolved to include solo storytelling and drama games, with strong themes emerging around constraints, finding one’s voice, nature, childhood, and courage.
A deep sense of trust and connection formed within the group, allowing space for honest, personal stories alongside moments of laughter and play. By the second workshop, participants expressed a strong desire for the gatherings to continue well beyond the initial project.
The impact has been profound: Biddies of Baltinglass not only met but far exceeded expectations, planting the seeds of an ongoing creative community in the town. With support from the Wicklow Arts Office and Creative Places Baltinglass, the women are now planning to carry the project forward into the autumn and beyond, ensuring this new network of creativity and support continues to grow.
The Creative Places Network is part of the national Creative Places programme developed and funded by the Arts Council.
Want to find out more and get involved in Creative Places Baltinglass? Fill in the form below and a member of the team will be in touch.
