Making Wharf Chambers
May 10, 2020
Collective co-operative dissidence is a documentary showcasing Wharf Chambers (WC), a unique exciting venue at the heart of Leeds alternative culture. I knew from the outset I wanted to produce a documentary showcasing this venue. Throughout production, the story evolved from the initial concept – looking at the venue as a queer safe space and members’ club – to the final story of co-operative venues. The documentary is light-hearted and designed to showcase the venue to those who may align themselves with those of the co-operative, its members, and the users of the venue as well as educating the listener with the benefits of this system; Coley (2017) states that the main objective is to educate.
Presenter Holly Fiddes explores how the idea for this not-for-profit community space emerged and what characteristics bring the Victorian warehouse to life, as well as giving the listener an authentic experience of the atmosphere within. The documentary was recorded in Leeds in March 2020.
Produced by Thomas Sayers and presented by Holly Fiddes.
