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14
Jun
Crime and punishment takes centre stage in Ripon Theatre Festival prelude
A true-life story of poverty, crime and punishment will provide a captivating prelude to this year's Ripon Theatre Festival, which runs from July 1 until July 6.
Peelers, Poachers and Paupers, will be staged across all three of Ripon's historic museum sites on Saturday, June 28, and Sunday, June 29.
Bringing Victorian Ripon to life, the original promenade production tells the compelling story of the infamous Sinkler brothers of Pateley Bridge, who were transported to Australia and eventually returned home.
Set between 1830 and 1872, the tale explores themes of crime, punishment, poverty and resilience during a period of profound social change and sees the Workhouse, Prison & Police and Courthouse museums all used as locations for the performance.
Under the artistic direction of professional actor and writer Mark Cronfield from Fell Foss Theatre, the performances will transport visitors back in time through a rich mix of drama, music and storytelling.
The Workhouse Theatre Group, bolstered by professional performers, will deliver two performance blocks daily.
Ripon Workhouse Museum
Ripon Theatre Festival director, Katie Scott said:
Peelers, Poachers and Paupers is an exciting development in our relationship with Fell Foss and Ripon Museums. We love making theatre pop up in unusual spaces and we seek out projects which shed new light on our city.
This project enables our communities to see familiar spaces differently and hear fascinating true stories, told in a unique way.
Andy Bates, who is producing as well as acting in the performances, added:
We are proud to showcase Ripon’s heritage through the voices of local people.
This is more than just theatre; it’s a celebration of creativity, history and community collaboration that brings our museums to life in new and exciting ways.
The Prison & Police Museum
A collaborative community effort
The project has been made possible through a vibrant network of local community partners and creative contributors, including:
- Orb Arts will supply performers from its drama group following a dedicated workshop.
- Folk duo The Brothers Gillespie are creating and performing an original musical score, alongside musicians from Ripon St Wilfrid’s and Skellside Folk groups.
- The Men’s Shed is crafting bespoke stage elements including stocks and raised platforms.
- Squigglers Art Group and Ohana Teen Group are contributing scenic art, props and visual storytelling.
- Volunteers from across the Ripon Museums will be in period costume, offering immersive activities such as baking, crafts and gardening demonstrations.
- York University – providing placement students to contribute to the legacy of the project.
For tickets and performance details click here.
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