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All of my talks and performances are available to book for your group or event. Contact me for availability.
'BECOMING HESBA' - The life and career of Hesba Stretton, written and performed by Alison Utting
'BECOMING HESBA' - The life and career of Hesba Stretton, written and performed by Alison Utting
When Hesba Stretton died in 1911, she was a world-renowned author and her books could be found in almost every household. From humble beginnings as Sara Smith, the Wellington postmaster’s daughter, her career as a professional writer began when her sister secretly sent one of her stories to Charles Dickens. He demanded more – and the world soon knew her name.
Hesba’s most popular novel, Jessica’s First Prayer, outsold Alice in Wonderland nearly ten times over! Yet today she is largely forgotten, her style of writing no longer suited to our literary appetites. You might expect a strait-laced spinster - but Hesba’s logbooks reveal a strong-minded, highly intelligent and amusing woman who succeeded in carving a place for herself in a world dominated by men.
Hesba did not crave publicity, but she did later use her influence and energy to help found the NSPCC, establishing protections for the vulnerable, suffering children who inspired and populated her novels.
‘Becoming Hesba’ draws on Hesba’s own writings - both her log books and her fiction - to bring this forgotten Shropshire woman to life, in a costumed theatrical presentation from the creator of ‘Aggie’.
The performance lasts for one hour. No sound or lighting required, just a small acting area. It can be adapted to all types of venue.
*AVAILABLE TO BOOK FROM MARCH 2027
‘AGGIE’ – The life and adventures of Dame Agnes Hunt, adapted from her memoirs
Agnes Hunt began writing her life story to amuse Sir Robert Jones in his last illness; nothing less would have persuaded her to put pen to paper. Her story is astounding. Crippled with multiple complex disabilities herself, she refused to let limitations of health or gender define her. Seen as ‘too young, and much too lame’ for the nursing profession, she went on to co-found one of the most prestigious hospitals in the world and establish the practice of orthopaedic nursing.
From Shropshire to Tasmania, from Aggie’s indomitable mother to a boisterous escaped patient, follow Aggie’s adventures as Alison brings this incredible story to vivid life. Scattered with enjoyable characters and almost-unbelievable events, both tragic and hilarious, this performance is one to remember.
“Absolutely excellent. What a way to hear about Dame Agnes Hunt!”
“We were entranced from start to finish. Much laughter, and a few tears welling up too.”
"Alison really is Agnes Hunt… A fascinating story, told in the best dramatic style."
“Totally engaging. Alison is enthusiastic and passionate about her subject. Highly recommended.”
The performance lasts for one hour. No sound or lighting required, just a small acting area. It can be adapted to all types of venue.
'MISS PLYMLEY RECOLLECTS' - Memories of a fascinating life in Georgian and Regency Shropshire
Join Katherine Plymley for tea in 1816 as she chats about her experiences.
From her home in rural Shropshire to Anglesey, Bath and London, Katherine kept journals of her experiences. Through her words witness the first steam engine, the excitement of Bath, and the fight to abolish slavery, as well as the delights of her family and village life. Meet the Ladies of Llangollen, William Wilberforce, Olaudah Equiano, Thomas Telford, and many others.
Adapted from Katherine’s journals with kind permission of the Corbett family.
"Absolutely brilliant!"
"Well researched, well presented, and a fascinating insight."
"Spellbinding."
The performance lasts for one hour. No sound or lighting required, just a small acting area. It can be adapted to all types of venue.
'ORDINARY LIVES' - A celebration of everyday life in Shropshire over the last 150 years
'ORDINARY LIVES' - A celebration of everyday life in Shropshire over the last 150 years
Celebrating ordinary and everyday people from Shropshire's past. Take a trip back in time to listen to voices from our recent past. Town and country, rich and poor - the recollections are a wonderful peep into the lives of our immediate ancestors.
Using first-hand accounts, this talk contains many local anecdotes from the late 19th and early 20th century, as well as extracts from fictional depictions of Shropshire. For some listeners, it may evoke vivid personal memories; others will enjoy a glimpse into the lives of previous generations. Without giving too much away, the talk also involves your other senses!
Bonus features: There is an optional extra section celebrating the birth and growth of Women’s Institutes in Shropshire. (+ 5 min).
The talk lasts for 1 hour. It requires a screen (or blank wall) and projector, but both can be provided if necessary.
'EGLANTYNE & ELLESMERE’ – a fully-illustrated talk about the founder of Save The Children and her remarkable family
Who was Ellesmere’s ‘Gentleman Jack’? Why did Eglantyne nearly end up in jail? How did a dog join the editorial team of a newspaper? Find out the answers in a lively, fully-illustrated talk by Alison Utting.
Eglantyne Jebb and her sister Dorothy founded Save The Children in 1919. They changed the lives of billions. But the whole family – especially the women - were remarkable achievers who left an amazing legacy.
Discover more about this fascinating family – the places they lived, their childhood games, and their incredible adult achievements. Alison’s research has unearthed drawings, photographs and memories that bring the Jebbs to life.
“The best talk I’ve heard in years."
“An excellent speaker.”
"Alison has a passionate interest in her subject and tells the story in a lively and imaginative way. Spellbinding!"
The talk lasts for 1 hour. It requires a screen (or blank wall) and projector, but both can be provided if necessary.
TALK FEES
Usual fee (audiences up to 30): £75
Larger events (audiences 30+): £100
Travel expenses: 50p/mile from SY12 9PF.
If you have a very small group, please contact me to discuss options.
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