This play by Jessica Swale, directed by Liz Clarke, is set in 1890’s Girton College Cambridge. Here women started to find their voices with a desire for education to degree level, but could not graduate. The brave women faced ridicule and the were often considered ‘unnatural women’. ‘ Wendy Lomas, as lecturer Miss Blake successfully combined an air of leadership and empathy with her students. Nicci Harvey was imperious, yet understanding as Mrs Welsh, the principal. Millie Whicher, was perfect as Tess, who struggled to choose between study and love. And one sympathised with Maeve (Judith Riley), who had to return home to look after her siblings – just because of her gender. Will Crabtree was convincing as Tess’s two -timing suitor, Ralph. Pete Lewis, as Lloyd was nothing short of scary in the bid to halt the women’s march of progress. Well done on producing a truly educational piece.’
Edited from Gordon Birch’s critique in the Harborough Mail
Photos by Tom Clark