MEMBERS of the innovative touring company Horse and Bamboo first built their stage -- then performed on it to an audience at the Barlow Institute in Edgworth.

The group performed The Girl Who Cut Flowers, a deceptively simple story of a girl growing up. It was told using the distinctive language of Horse and Bamboo Theatre, combining powerful masks with shadow imagery and back light effects which bring the intensity of film noir to theatre.

The Barlow Institute is a member of Spot On, Lancashire's Rural Touring Network which enables people in rural areas to access professional live arts events on their doorstep.

Spot On has a membership of 30 community venues, most of which are in village halls. It promotes a lively and diverse programme of 20 events a year.