New film honouring 80 years of VE and VJ Day premieres in Scunthorpe
More than 170 people from across North Lincolnshire took part in creating the film
The stories and spirit of North Lincolnshire are set to take the spotlight this week as Then and Now, a new community film, lights up Scunthorpe Central.
The large-scale outdoor projection, taking place on Tuesday, 11 November, will mark the film’s premiere, transforming the library building into a canvas for stories of love, loss, and resilience told through the eyes of local residents.
More than 170 people from across North Lincolnshire, including dancers, school pupils, veterans, and even an animal actor, took part in creating the film over the summer.
Working with choreographer Fred Garland of Tenfoot Dance Company and production team Laramedia, the project gave two young local dancers their first professional break and turned the community itself into the cast and crew.
"creativity in our communities"
Cllr Rob Waltham, leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said: “This project shows the real strength of creativity in our communities. So many people have come together to share their talents, tell their stories, and create something that will stay with audiences for years to come.”
The film explores how courage and community continue to shape North Lincolnshire’s identity, weaving together memories of wartime experiences with the enduring themes of unity and hope.
Cllr John Davison, cabinet member for community wellbeing (urban), added: “By bringing this story to life in such an accessible and engaging way, we’re making culture something everyone can experience and enjoy. It’s wonderful to see so many local people involved in a project that connects our history with our future.”
The free public event will feature live performances from 5.30pm to 7.30pm, with the film projection scheduled for 6.30pm.
Inside Scunthorpe Central, an accompanying exhibition offers a deeper look at the memories, artefacts, and creative responses that inspired the film.
Elements of the original set have been reconstructed across both floors of the venue, featuring contributions from local groups including North Lincolnshire Veterans Hub, Speak Out Scunny CIC, Scunthorpe C of E Primary School, and North Lincolnshire Museum Young Historians.
The exhibition runs until 31 January 2026.