The Woven Word - Series 2

28 November 2024

A new series of The Woven Word, an immersive 10-episode virtual reality series has been announced by Virtual Visit, in partnership with Hidden Ulster Tours.

The VR series brings to life the poetry and legacy of the 18^th and 19^th Century Ulster-Scots Rhyming Weavers.  

Set against the backdrop of Ulster’s linen heritage, The Woven Word explores why these poets, and their work, remain vital to understanding the region's cultural identity and history.  Through storytelling and cutting-edge VR, the series invites viewers to experience the lives, artistry, and enduring impact of these remarkable voices.  

Hosted by historian and guide Lolly Spence, each episode showcases a poet, recites their work in Ulster-Scots, and delves into the poem’s historical and cultural context, all filmed in immersive 360° video. 

Lolly Spence, Presenter and Owner of Hidden Ulster Tours, said: "As a professional tour guide, historian and lover of poetry I've enjoyed this opportunity to talk about some of the poets, poems and places of particular note from the time of Ulster’s Rhyming Weaver poets. Presenting the series through the medium of 360° VR video is quite special. It feels more connected and engaging than traditional video and I love the idea that viewers from anywhere in the world can look around with me… as if standing with me, as I share stories of our Ulster-Scots heritage." 

Thomas McVea, Producer & Creative Director of Virtual Visit, said: "The entire series is filmed and broadcast in 360°. This innovative new medium is transportive, giving the viewer an experience akin to actually being there. Immersive in nature, 360° VR (Virtual Reality) video gives power to the viewer and makes them feel part of the story, placing them inside the experience while encouraging exploration outside the traditional 2D frame. If they have access to one, I would encourage viewers to don a VR headset for a full immersive experience."

Heidi McAlpin, Ulster-Scots Broadcast Fund Executive at Northern Ireland Screen, said: "Thomas and Lolly have created an Ulster-Scots poetry resource that will transport viewers from around the world to places such as the Ulster Folk Museum, Echlinville Distillery and the Glens of Antrim to name a few, bringing to life the words of Rhyming Weavers including Adam Lynn, Agnes Kerr and James Campbell. The Ulster-Scots Broadcast Fund is delighted to have supported this unique Virtual Reality digital project."    

The project, which has been produced with funding from Northern Ireland Screen’s Ulster-Scots Broadcast Fund, is now available to view on the Discover Ulster-Scots YouTube channel here.