Who is
Molly Leigh?
“Who Is Molly Leigh?" was a new co-created community opera exploring the legend of accused witch Molly Leigh.
Through immersive music and storytelling, we explored local history from the perspective of women and those excluded by society for being 'different' to find out, "Who is Molly Leigh?"
Composed and Written by Francesca Le Lohè and Gareth Mattey, the opera was creatively produced by B.ARTS and co-created with members of the local community.
This was an immersive, promenade piece where audiences chose their own route through the opera.
SHOWTIMES & TICKETS
Wednesday 23 July – Evening Show – 7.30pm
Thursday 24 July – Afternoon Show - 2.30pm & Evening Show – 7.30pm
Friday 25 July – Evening Show – 7.30pm
Saturday 26 July – Afternoon Show - 2.30pm & Evening Show – 7.30pm
Sunday 27 July – Afternoon Show – 2.30pm & Evening Show – 5.30pm
MORE ABOUT OUR SHOW
After a successful Arts Council Project Grant, Francesca (composer), Gareth (librettist) in partnership with arts organisation B.ARTS are creating an interactive musical about the local legend of accused Burslem witch Molly Leigh. As well as exploring Molly’s story, the project will explore women's stories, stories of difference and social exclusion.
Women, non-binary, trans people and gender diverse people are invited to join a community choir led by local choir leader Mary Keith, and everyone is welcome to take part in all workshops, and also be involved in acting in, singing, playing music and creating the props and set for the show with a team of local creatives.
We will explore local history from the perspective of women and those excluded by society for being ‘different’.
Songs and scenes created by Francesca & Gareth will explore the story through various lenses and a community choir of women, non-binary, trans & gender diverse people will represent Burslem born Molly Leigh.
How long does the performance last?
Approximately 1 hour.
Where is the performance?
B.ARTS, 72 Hartshill Road, Stoke on Trent, ST4 7RB. Entrance is via the blue cafe door next to the bus stop. Head this way for more info on how to find us and to help plan your visit.
What should I wear?
Please wrap up warmly for your visit and wear sensible shoes.
What will the performance be like?
Our tour is interactive which means at times people will talk directly to you, there is no obligation to join in with anything that happens during the performance at all. Our tour is immersive, which means you walk around the theatre set rather than sit and watch it in your seats. There are stewards at every performance and you can leave at any time. This is an immersive, promenade piece where audiences choose their own route through the opera.
How can I contact you with any other queries?
Contact kath.stanway@b-arts.org.uk or text/call 07544814720. If you have any accessibility needs or want to ask any questions please get in touch.
We gratefully acknowledge the support of our funders and partners - Arts Council England, The Baring Foundation, The Esmèe Fairbairn Foundation, The National Lottery Community Fund, Contemporary Music for All, Vaughan Williams Foundation, and The Hinrichsen Foundation.