“Playing out is an activity that is part of human nature, it crosses all cultures and promotes health, happiness and a sense of belonging. Having the freedom to play out gives children and young people a connection to their local community and environment, to the wonder of the natural world. It teaches independence and resilience, and you forge friendships and create adventures along the way.” Miranda Parker and Jake Talbot, Dare to Know Theatre

Playing Out is the brainchild of Jake and Miranda of Dare to Know Theatre. The project consists of a series of podcasts created from interviews Jake and Miranda have conducted with different communities across Oldham, including the Chai Ladies, the Roma Community Group and the Lovely Ladies featured in this clip!

The podcasts will form an anthology of stories about the games we play, what playing out and being outside means to us, and how playing out changes between generations and cultures. 

We hope you've enjoyed this Northern Roots history mini-series. Just before you go, do you know about Alexandra Park? Oldham's award-winning, Grade 2 listed park is Northern Roots immediate neighbour and is stacked with history. 

No.9 on the Northern Roots History map.

Equestrians are a vibrant part of the Northern Roots community, and have used the 160-acre Northern Roots site for decades.

No.8 on the Northern Roots History Map.

Follow in the footsteps of a once busy railway.....

No.7 on the Northern Roots History map.

This stunning 18th century ironworks, a relic of the Industrial Revolution, lies in Tameside, at the southern end of the Northern Roots site.

No.6 on the Northern Roots History map.

What was Strawberry Gardens? 

No.5 on the Northern Roots History map.

The largest mill in the world!

No. 4 on the Northern Roots History map.

The extraordinary Mary Higgs. Pioneering social reformer, founder of the Beautiful Oldham Society. 

No. 3 on the Northern Roots History map.

The Industrial Revolution is in full swing! Oldham is the epi-centre of the global cotton-spinning industry. Local businessman Robert Thatcher builds a mill on the Northern Roots site. 

No.2 on the Northern Roots History map.

What connects the Roman Empire to the Northern Roots site? 

No.1 on the Northern Roots History map.