East Riding Libraries are partnering with Mikron Theatre and tickets are now on sale for a brand-new play centered around the mobile library service.
Tickets will be on sale for venues across the East Riding and nationally for ‘Top of the Wold’, a unique play bursting with original songs that celebrate everything from community and culture to caravans and peas.
Opening this March, audiences will follow the four actor-musicians as the mobile library dives into chapters that teem with the lives of then and now.
From Bempton to Bridlington, Hornsea to Howden, the play explores a region barely noticed by the nation it feeds and eroded by the pounding North Sea.
Following extensive research which included joining local mobile library routes, playwright Maeve Larkin has crafted a production that reflects the voices and rich experiences of communities across the East Riding. Her research also included conversations with local groups as well as visits to local towns and villages.
This project is part of East Riding Libraries, National Portfolio Organisation (NPO) status funded through Arts Council England. It has been a key project within the NPO and has been in the works since April 2023.
Dates and times of ‘Top of the Wold’ performances in the Bridlington area can be found below:
March
Saturday, 28 March, 1 – 3pm, Bempton and Buckton Village Hall
Saturday, 28 March, 7:30 – 9.30pm, North Bridlington Library
May
Friday, 15 May, 1 – 3pm, Skipsea Village Hall
September
Thursday, 24 September, 1 – 3pm, Wold Newton Community Centre
Thursday, 24 September, 7.30 – 9.30pm, Nafferton Village Hall
Friday, 25 September, 1 – 3pm, Middleton-on-the-Wold Village Hall
Councillor Nick Coultish, cabinet member for culture, leisure and tourism at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: ‘’This new and exciting play brings together a rich mix of perspectives and themes from across the East Riding which are inspired by the author’s encounters with local people.
‘’We very much look forward to seeing those from near and far enjoy the performances and we are confident that the play will be a huge success both locally and nationally.’’
Marianne McNamara, director of ‘Top of the Wold’, added: “‘Top of the Wold’ is a vibrant ode to the East Riding. It’s Mikron’s tradition to shine a light on unsung heroes and places—our team has worked exceptionally hard to bring the fantastic stories of local people to life, creating a production that reflects the rich culture and heritage of the region.
‘’Featuring beautiful music this play encourages audiences to discover a landscape where the connection to the land and culture is deeply ingrained.
‘’We are thrilled to see the story commence its journey on the mobile library starting this March and hope to see people from across the East Riding and beyond take part.”
