Emerging theatre production companies Drama Chameleon (Salop) and Arts Groupie CIC are bringing the play, “Kitty, Queen of the Washhouse”, from Liverpool on its first rural tour to Shropshire in early June, starting at Ellesmere College on 6-7 June.

Written by Liverpudlian writer John Maguire, this fascinating, one-woman show, depicts the life of the iconic Kitty Wilkinson, named “Saint of the Slums”, who was instrumental in halting the cholera epidemic in Victorian England by opening the first public wash and bath house in the UK.

The story follows Kitty, an immigrant from Ireland, who went from victim of child labour in a Lancashire mill to becoming a community champion in Victorian Liverpool, will appeal to all with an interest in social history, and female empowerment.  As director Margaret Connell says, “It’s not just history – this is HER STORY! Kitty was a one woman social services department of her time.”

As the friendly ghost of Kitty, young actor Samantha Alton, gives a mesmerizing, physical performance in this “against all odds” tale, from brutal hardship to success and fulfillment of a working-class girl.

Buried in Liverpool’s Anglican Cathedral churchyard, with a stained glass window in her honour, Kitty remains the only female statue in the great St George’s Hall.

Co Producer, and local resident Sue Richardson Fowkes of Drama Chameleon says: “I am delighted to bring this show to Shropshire knowing all the history our county has with Merseyside.  I also feel strongly that city shows, particularly quality Fringe shows, featuring emerging writing and acting talent, should see the light of day in our rural settings and non-traditional theatre spaces.  If well supported, we aim to bring more shows to the sticks – I guess we are on an outreach entertainment mission.”

For more information and tickets please visit:  www.ellesmere.com – search ‘What’s On’.