THIS IS NOT A POLITE HISTORY LESSON – Deeds, Words, and Danger is a bold, funny, and powerful new play inspired by 800 years of North Shields women: from medieval lay sisters and suffragettes to wartime heroines, boxers, carers and teenagers growing up today.
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At the heart of the play is an unexpected relationship between Ruby, a sharp-witted 15-year-old wannabe boxer facing exclusion from school, and her mentor Mina – a retired history teacher with her own wounds and a fire for justice. Together, they journey across North Shields, uncovering women who refused to stay quiet and the risks they took by speaking out – from Mary Ann Macham to Norah Balls.
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Created with women and girls from North Shields, this performance confronts misogyny and racism, connects past to present, and celebrates resistance, resilience, and belonging.
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When? Sunday 8th March 2026 – International Women’s Day 2026
Where? The Exchange 1856 - The Loft, North Shields, NE30 1SE
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GET YOUR FREE TICKET
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With thanks to: North Shields 800 and the National Lottery Heritage Fund for making this possible.
