Blue Stockings

"Blue Stockings," directed by Lee Farley, is a powerful and thought-provoking play written by Jessica Swale in 2013. Swale's first play laid a solid foundation for her later successes as an award-winning and renowned female playwright. Based on true events, the play depicts women's struggle for education beyond traditional subjects like needlework, art, and French in 1896 at Girton College, Cambridge. Desperate for academic opportunities equal to their male counterparts, these women risk societal rejection and jeopardise their marriage prospects by fighting for their right to study more rigorous subjects at degree level.

Led by Girton's longest-serving mistress, Elizabeth Welsh, the movement aims to secure the right for women to graduate despite facing academic restrictions. The play follows four bright young women on a journey of self-discovery and friendship, navigating societal labels like "blue stockings," which ostracise intellectual and well-read women.

The detailed set design includes an archway at the centre, flanked by raised platforms forming a library and classroom, adorned with period-appropriate props and furniture. Floor-to-ceiling bookcases, paintings, and scientific illustrations enhance the academic atmosphere, while the use of dark colours and low lighting evokes a sense of oppression, contrasting with brighter outdoor scenes. The period costumes, meticulously matched with accessories and footwear, added authenticity.

Michael Peden's depiction of Doctor Maudsley, a renowned psychiatrist harbouring disdain for women, accentuated by his strikingly inaccurate explanation of hysteria, eliciting gasps from the audience. He was well-supported in his views by Trinity Professors Collins, Anderson, and Radleigh, portrayed by Keith Finch, Sue Ricketts, and Sue Jago, respectively, all delivered performances brimming with pomp and sternness, each embodying the rigid attitudes towards women's education of the era.

Steve Burford delivered a compelling portrayal of Mr. Banks, a forward-thinking feminist lecturer affiliated with both Girton and Trinity. His ability to navigate between different perspectives while staying true to his moral compass, added great depth to his character.

Anna Byers, portraying Minnie the maid, and Anne Peden, as Miss Bott, the girls’ chaperone, both delivered standout performances in these characterful roles. With strong facial expressions, impeccable comic timing, and skilled line delivery, which added depth and humour to the production. I especially enjoyed Miss Bott’s “30 inches apart” line!

Gracie Stephens delivered a nuanced portrayal of Ralph Mayhew, deftly capturing his inner turmoil as a romantic scientist entangled in societal expectations. Despite his sympathy for the women's cause, Ralph succumbs to the pressures from his father and society regarding his choice of spouse. This was a solid performance by Gracie, well done.

Amber Tudge's portrayal of Edwards was well-cast and brought humour to the stage. The interactions between Edwards and the girls, particularly Carolyn, were enjoyable, filled with awkward yet entertaining moments.

Rosa D'Ambrosio delivered a compelling performance as Holmes, portraying a Trinity boy torn between supporting and opposing the girls in their academic endeavours. Her skilful use of body language and facial expressions heightened the discomfort within the more ‘unsettling’ scenes.

Alanna Leeming adeptly portrayed two characters. Initially, as Tess' childhood friend, Will Bennett, she conveyed his silent struggle to express emotions, culminating in a heartfelt confession of love for Tess at the end. Transitioning to Maeve's misogynistic brother, Billy Sullivan, Alanna delivered a transformation with an authentic Irish accent.

Alison Reeves delivered an outstanding performance as Elizabeth Welsh, fearlessly voicing her convictions with remarkable delivery. Her passion for women's education resonated strongly, engaging the audience directly by breaking down the fourth wall and addressing them as the senate. She left a lasting impact with her heartfelt and inspirational portrayal. Anna Hodges also shone as Miss Blake, a lecturer at Girton, who courageously supported the suffragette movement. Her determination to inspire her students showcased her as a woman ahead of her time.

Orlagh Malone portrayed Maeve Sullivan, a Girton Girl sponsored due to her non-wealthy background, effectively conveying her struggle to embrace new opportunities. Her return home was particularly poignant, highlighting the tough choices women had to make. An unfortunate case of 'the giggles' may have slightly diminished the impact of her final speech, but overall, it was a commendable performance.

Lucy Copeland portrayed Carolyn Addison, the affluent and well-travelled Girton girl, with vigour and ease, skilfully balancing boasting with endearing qualities. Her interactions, especially with Edward and the other girls, were enjoyable and added depth. Libby Cox, as Celia Willbond, embodied a cautious yet determined student. At times Libby had some difficult scientific dialogue, which I thought she handled masterfully. Both performances were enjoyable and enriched the play.

Finally, Martha Loraine's portrayal of Tess Moffat, the plays lead, was exceptional. With compelling stage presence and mature line delivery, she effectively conveyed Tess's complex emotions and conflicts, balancing her aspirations for education with desires for marriage and family. Martha’s interactions with other characters, particularly with Will Bennett, added depth to their complicated dynamic. Additionally, her portrayal underscored Tess’s courage in confronting oppression in women's education, highlighting her unwavering commitment to her beliefs.

"Blue Stockings" is a powerful piece of theatre that prompts reflection and discussion long after the final bow. With its compelling narrative, outstanding performances, and attention to detail, this production was a triumph of knowledge and courage. Congratulations to all involved and a big thank you to The Colwall Players for their warm hospitality, I look forward to attending future productions.

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