Ruth Leon recommends…Hindle Wakes – Mint Theatre
Ruth Leon recommendsHindle Wakes – Mint Theatre
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November 29-December 26 on demand
This 1910 play by Stanley Houghton caused a scandal at its first production because it concerns a brief affair between a mill girl and the son of her employer. Its subject is class, and sex, which in 1910 were not considered suitable subject for discussion and the choices made by the young woman were thought completely shocking. It deals with an independent-minded young woman insisting on her right to enjoy a sexual flirtation regardless of the disapproval of family or society.
The play is very old-fashioned but quite startling, once you realise that it was staged in 1910 and popular enough to have been made into a film no fewer than four times, the first in 1931, the last in 1952 when it was updated to the 1950s. Hindle Wakes is not often revived and it’s a strong play so, good for Mint Theatre that they’ve once again unearthed an unusual work that’s worth seeing again. Directed by Gus Kaikkonen.
I highly recommend this. It’s a total delight with terrific performances from all.