A FUNNY, poignant and heart-warming play about the resilient, resourceful and rowdy women of Lancashire, and the mark they have made on the country’s history, comes to Barningham Village Hall on Friday, March 25.
Miss Nobodies has been created and performed by Blackpool-born comedian, storyteller, writer and director Ruth Cockburn.
Using storytelling, humour and music, it takes the audience on a journey through the last hundred years in a typical Lancashire mill town to meet the strong women who galvanised the community.
The play is inspired by the work of Ethel Carnie Holdsworth (1886-1962), a writer who worked in the mills in the early part of the last century, and takes its title from her first novel.
She is reckoned to be the first working class female novelist in the UK and, although she was a prolific writer of poetry and novels, as well as an activist for most of her life, she is now largely forgotten.
Ms Cockburn studied acting at Manchester Metropolitan University and the city nurtured her love of comedy and live performance. She has since appeared on many prestigious stages such as Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, the National Theatre and The Royal Exchange Theatre and has performed at festivals throughout the world.
The show comes to Barningham through the Highlights Rural Touring Scheme.
Robin Brooks, a member of Barningham Village Hall committee, said: “Now more than ever, after the trauma of the pandemic, I think audiences will very much relate to the themes of community spirit and resilience in Miss Nobodies.
“And with the return of theatre, after being ‘dark’ for so long, this is a great opportunity to see a professionally staged show, on your doorstep and at an affordable price.
“The small size of our hall makes it ideal for one and two-actor shows like this. There’s always a warm atmosphere and a great buzz between performers and audience.
“This year marks Highlights’ 25th birthday and, as we have the only performance of Miss Nobodies in County Durham, the show is doubly special.”
The show starts at 7.30pm and tickets are £10.50 adults, £4.50 children and £23 for families. Call 01833 621203 or email rpbrooks72@ gmail.com.
Alternatively, or book online at www.highlights north.co.uk.
Those attending are welcome to bring their own drinks.
