- Venue: Courtyard Theatre
- Duration: N/A
- Age Guidance: Guidance 11+
- Other: Contains strong language. Contains scenes of war and of a sexual nature. Post Show Discussion Wed 22 June
- Info
- Credits
- Reviews
More Information on Barnbow Canaries (2016)
As the Great War gathers pace, Agnes and her sister Edith revel in their new-found independence and prosperity as Barnbow lasses. Not only does their danger money buy them a new life of confidence, men, work and politics but the thrill of a new future, full of fun, friendship and freedom.
In the wake of the catastrophic 1916 explosion, the women discover the true cost of the cry for ‘More Shells!’ Alice Nutter (My Generation) brings her unique voice to this incredible story of Yorkshire grit, determination and solidarity, marking 100 years since the largest ever single loss of life in the history of Leeds.
Accessible Performances
Audio Described
Wednesday 29 June 7.45pm
Saturday 2 July 2.30pm
BSL Interpreted
Tuesday 28 June 7.45pm
Captioned
Friday 1 July 7.45pm
On Thursday 30 June before the evening performance of Barnbow Canaries there will be a special pre-performance event in the foyer area, with performances from John Smeaton School and the Chorus of Barnbow Canaries, to commemorate the centenary of the Battle of the Somme. Make sure you arrive early to watch the event from 6.30pm – 7pm.
Community engagement for Barnbow Canaries
supported by
Associate Production Sponsor
Cast & Credits
By Alice Nutter / Director Kate Wasserberg / Designer Mark Bailey / Lighting Designer Katy Morison / Casting Director Kay Magson / Composer, Musical Director and Sound Designer Dyfan Jones / Movement Director Lucy Hind / Fight Director Rachel Bown-Williams of Rc-Annie Ltd /
West Yorkshire Playhouse
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Jade Ogugua
as Swifty -
Tilly Steele
as Edith -
Peter McGovern
as Victor -
Jo Mousley
as Florence -
Colette O’Rourke
as Agnes -
Joseph Tweedale
as Bertie/Doctor -
Dominic Gately
as Parkin -
Kristin Atherton
as Sparrow
Reviews
“ Nutter writes with power and conviction of the many injustices that these women suffered”

“ A poignant tribute... beautifully written”

“ Barnbow Canaries is a poignant performance that tugs on the emotions”

“ Full of heart and female solidarity, Nutter’s script puts the lives of ordinary working-class women on stage with linguistic verve”

“ Visually startling sequences”

“ Nutter skilfully conjures the cultures of friendship, resistance and celebration which grew up amid such appalling dangers”

Book Tickets
Open captioning allows theatre goers with varying degrees of hearing to view the full text as it is spoken or sung, including sound effects and off stage noises. These appear on a scrolling screen, positioned on or at the side of the stage.
British Sign Language InterpretedA signed performance is the usual full production using either the creative use of sign integrated into the performance or a British Sign Language Interpreter on stage interpreting the show for D/deaf attendees.
Audio DescribedAudio Described performances are designed to improve the experience of visually impaired and blind attendees. As well as listening to the dialogue on stage the customer can wear a headset and listen to a live description of the action on stage.
Relaxed PerformanceA relaxed performance is a specially selected show from our programme, with slight adaptations to make it suitable for an audience of young people or adults with learning disabilities. This may include extra lighting, additional wheelchair spaces and the freedom to move to alternative seating if required.
Dementia-Friendly PerformanceDementia friendly performances are for all audiences. The theatre experience is enhanced for people living with dementia and their supporters, with adaptations to front of house service, the show and pre-show information packs. Additional dementia-aware staff, quiet spaces, clear signage and visual markers, sound and lighting adjustments and flexible seating options all help to create a supportive, shared experience.
Sing AlongSingalong with the cast in this exclusive performance. Join in as loud as you like, fancy dress is optional but highly recommended.
Post Show DiscussionParent & Baby Performance
A Parent and Baby performance enables parents to attend the theatre with their baby (under 12 months). We make small adaptations to the lighting and sound effects, including keeping the auditorium lights slightly raised. The seating is unallocated and there is a relaxed attitude to noise.
Booking Fees:
*A transaction fee of £1.95 will be applied to all phone and internet bookings.
Key:
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- Captioned
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- Signed
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- Audio Description
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- Relaxed Performance
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- Dementia Friendly Performance
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- Post Show Discussion
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- Sing Along
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- Socially Distanced
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