Play celebrating real-life heroines to be performed during Women’s History Month

A new play will be performed in Rickmansworth which celebrates the lives of three real-life heroines as part of Women’s History Month (1 - 31 March).

Anna Reynold’s comedy Nothing on Earth celebrates the lives of three real-life heroines: Edwardian balloonist and parachutist, Dolly Shepherd (1886-1983), suffragette Constance Lytton (1869-1923) and interwar explorer Violet Cressy-Marcks (1895-1970). Past and present intertwine when their remarkable stories collide with Jade, a 21st century woman coming to terms with the loss of her beloved grandfather and working in care after her career in the air is grounded by a pandemic.

Nothing on Earth navigates history whilst considering the realities of care, of growing old and grief, and of the impact of global events beyond your control.

Playwright Anna Reynolds and production company Pursued by a Bear’s Artistic Director Rosamunde Hutt are joined by internationally renowned vocal composer Helen Chadwick - who has created a unique a cappella score, designer Sophia Lovell Smith (acclaimed for her work with young people, immersive theatre, and world-class companies), lighting designer Holly Ellis (On The Ropes, Park Theatre), sound designer Anna Short (Crackers, Polka) and movement director Emily Gray (Creative Director of British Youth Music Theatre).

Anna Reynolds was first commissioned to write Nothing on Earth by Pursued by a Bear in 2016, inspired by Hertfordshire’s Hidden Heroines project. It was further developed during 2019 including workshops and engagement with housing residents in Dacorum Borough Council as well as film students and community singers. With the production on hold during lockdown, Anna and the company created a series of six short online films alongside a blog and e-book, with funding from Arts Council England.

Rosamunde Hutt, Director and Artistic Director of production company Pursued by a Bear, said: “Our mission at Pursued by a Bear is to champion women's playwriting and we're delighted to be putting the bold and compelling vision of Anna Reynolds centre stage in 2023. With grace and sensitivity Anna explores topical themes of care, having to change your job, and struggling with the vicissitudes of growing old. Designer Sophia Lovell Smith provides an environment that holds past and present in one space, allowing a myriad of stories, of bravery, courage and defiance, to be imaginatively told, and Helen Chadwick's evocative music wraps around the play's witty and playful text. From Hackney to Hertfordshire and beyond Nothing on Earth is inspiring elders to release their voices and share their vivid memories through story and creative writing.”

Nothing on Earth will be at Watersmeet, Rickmansworth, on 22 March at 7.30pm. Ticket prices: £15 adults, £10 concessions (under 18s and over 60s). The show is recommended for children aged 13 and over.

For tickets visit:  www.watersmeet.co.uk/nothing-on-earth  /  01923 711063