Kate van der Horst, Jasmine Leech, Laura Antoniazzi and Rosie Williams, costume design by Sharon Malujlo
Image Credit: Richard Parkhill

Due to COVID-19 Blue Stockings has been rescheduled to May 2021.

Cambridge 1896, and Girton College is home to the country's first female students. Blue Stockings is the empowering and surprising story of four young women fighting for their right to a university education in a world that assumed women belonged at home.

A gloriously moving, comical and eye-opening story of four young women fighting for education and self-determination against the larger backdrop of women's suffrage. This year's intake of new women at Girton College face economic difficulty, the distractions of men and radical politics, and the jaw-dropping prejudice that blights every aspect of academic life. Meanwhile, there looms the prospect of a controversial vote to decide: should these ‘blue stockings’ be allowed to graduate? The play begins with text from an actual speech by ‘real life’ Dr Maudsley who warns his audience that education for women is a dangerous idea. He argues that women's lives should be determined by their biological and reproductive functions, and therefore attending university is likely to cause them serious harm.

First produced at Shakespeare's Globe in 2013 it was a sell-out success. Based on feedback we’ve received so far, we fully expect this to also be a sell-out season. So don’t miss out.

Directed by Libby Drake and featuring a wonderful cast including Kate Anolak, Laura Antoniazzi, Jackson Barnard, Kyla Booth, Matt Chapman, Bart Csorba, Brant Eustice, James Fazzalari, Lucy Johnson, Rebecca Kemp, Jasmine Leech, David Lockwood, Tony Sampson, Sebastien Skubala, Tom Tassone, Kate van der Horst and Rosie Williams.

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Praise for Blue Stockings

9.5/10 "Libby Drake has managed to direct this large cast with great balance, ensuring there is clear demarcation of status, great economy of movement, and judicious use of props."- The Adelaide Show

"there are standout performances from Kate van der Horst as Tess... and Bart Csorba... More power to Red Phoenix’s arm for taking on the challenge, and to Libby Drake for her perceptive direction." - The Advertiser

"This is a remarkable and very timely and pertinent play, expertly staged and directed by Libby Drake and masterfully (mistressfully?) acted by a very fine, large cast." - Australian Stage

"Red Phoenix have produced another winner:- excellent theatre that makes you think." - Glam Adelaide

"Everything about this production screams professionalism. High production values set the stage for two hours of sublime storytelling." - Stage Whispers

"It is an engrossing, intelligent, and relevant show well directed and well played."
- The Barefoot Review

"This play is well written, moving, and entertaining and there are moments that generate outrage, empathy and, above all, admiration for the generations that had the courage to make a difference." - The Adelaide Theatre Association of South Australia

"Red Phoenix has a reputation for high-quality theatre, and this production will only add to that reputation." - Broadway World

"Blue Stockings lived up to the high standard that we have come to expect from Red Phoenix Theatre. Well worth seeing." - 5MBS

"this is a great production" - Adelaide Theatre Guide

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Gallery

Image Credit: Richard Parkhill

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OUR COVID PLAN

HST is incredibly excited to present a safe and secure theatre expereince. To ensure public safety we have implemented a COVID Safe plan. Social distancing, density and hygiene practices will be adhered to at all times. Only attend the event if you are feeling well. If you have any COVID-19 symptoms please ensure you get tested as soon as possible and follow social isolation guidelines until you recover.

If you are unable to attend your event please call 8225 8888 or email manager@holdenstreettheatres.com to discuss your ticketing options.

The safety and health of our patrons, staff and performers is our main priority and we will do everything we can to ensure a fun and safe evening out.

Learn More about our Covid Safe Practices Here.