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Five Reasons to See ... Black Beauty

From 15 - 17 July The Broughton Open Air Festival plays host to a brand new adaptation of Anna Sewell's classic novel Black Beauty.

The original novel, which charts one horse’s journey through life in Victorian England, was penned in 1877 when it broke new literary ground by describing the world through the eyes of an animal.  Promoting a positive message about animal welfare, the book has sold over fifty million copies worldwide and is firmly established as one of the best-selling works of all time.

Leading Yorkshire production company PEEL are the creative driving-force behind the ambitious and exciting production. Managing director, award winning playwright and producer Susannah Daley gives us five very good reasons to see the show :

1. Two sublimely unique venues – whether it be the majesty of the Yorkshire Dales or the serenity of the Epsom Downs, theatre-goers can take their pick from two stunning venues in which to enjoy this roaming production. Broughton Hall Country Estate along with Epsom Racecourse will both be playing host to Black Beauty, so where better to watch the story unfold than in the grounds of one of Britain’s oldest stately homes or the home of UK horse racing? Grounds will open in good time before each show, giving you the chance to indulge in some Pimms or a picnic…or both!

2. Cheaper than War Horse…but just as good! Whilst horse-led productions are setting the theatre world alight, PEEL will be using the skills of talented sculptural costumier Hayley Neil (Animal Farm at West Yorkshire Playhouse) to create the stunning equine costumes of Beauty, Captain, Ginger et al. A saddle corset will be wrapped around the actors body which will have a cradled horse head carefully attached – meaning the cast will undergo an unforgettable transformation from human to animal.

3. Get closer to the action – PEEL will be giving audiences a rare and unique opportunity to get up close and personal to a real-life working horse with its pre-theatre workshops. Taking place an hour and a half ahead of each performance, theatre-goers will be able to meet selected cast members along with a real-life tacked and bridled horse showing how these beautiful animals formed an integral part of the working infrastructure in Victorian England

4. Classic literature with a modern twist  – this dramatization of Anna Sewell’s novel has been adapted by PEEL writer James Stone, who in partnership with BBC award-winning paywright Ssannah Daleyand top drector, Dr Chris Ford will bring to life this Victorian classic. The production will be of special interest for children following Victorian Britain in their studies, or for those simply wanting to experience the social diversity of 19th century England.  Whilst Sewell’s documentation of the harsh conditions of a Victorian work-horse actually prompted a change in the law for working animals, today the novel’s poignant messages about kindness, sympathy and respect are more relevant than ever in our modern society.

5. A beautiful production  - PEEL is known for its sumptuous costumes and stylish and intriguing stage sets…so Black Beauty promises to be a real visual spectacle. This dual promenade and theatre-in-the round piece  just happens to have a cast of first-rate gutsy actors who make the amazing set transformations happen right in front of your eyes!

Tickets can be purchased at www.blackbeautylive.com

- by Joanne Hartley

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