Ruth

In this skilful adaptation of Elizabeth Gaskell's novel, fifteen year old Ruth, lost and alone in the world, is apprenticed to dressmaker Mrs Mason. Falling under the influence of Henry Bellingham, a rich, handsome but selfish young man, she loses her job and is eventually left pregnant and abandoned

Under the protection of the kindly Benson household, she is able to keep her past a secret and retain a portion of trust in a prominent local family. But then her past catches up with her...

The play provides a fascinating insight into Victorian attitudes towards single mothers and the social implications of births outside marriage. These and other issues are explained in the accompanying resource material through a range of stimulating writing, speaking and drama activities