This research examines current arts practice in the UK heritage context and focuses on practices that engage the public through participation. It bridges the disciplines of oral history and performance practice to reveal new possibilities for the co-creation of oral narrative exhibitions, audio guides and performances with public audiences. It considers approaches that facilitate community members to move beyond participation to actively co-curating and co-produce the work in which their narratives are told. The aim is to provide pertinent strategies and a framework (currently lacking) for artists, heritage workers and organisations active in this growing field.