A theatre campaign has sparked an extraordinary response from the local community. Launched on Monday 21 October, She Productions’ Pay It Forward initiative saw over 200 theatre tickets donated within 48 hours, ensuring families across Hull and the East Riding can experience live theatre throughout 2025.
The campaign marks another milestone for She Productions as they approach their 10-year anniversary. Known for creating original theatre that tackles social issues while entertaining audiences of all ages, She Productions has become a cornerstone of the region’s cultural landscape.
“This immediate response shows the strength of our community,” says Annie Kirkman, Co-Producer of “Bauble Town” and Co-Artistic Director of She Productions. “From businesses to individuals, our community has come together to make theatre accessible to everyone. This isn’t just about Christmas – it’s about creating opportunities that continue into 2025 and beyond.”
The campaign accompanies “Bauble Town”, the fourth annual Christmas family musical created through She Productions’ partnership with East Riding Libraries. The show will tour across the region’s libraries, schools, and return for a second year to Pop-Up Space in Hull’s Fruit Market.
The business response has been remarkable. Hull-based digital marketing agency sobananapenguin contributed 25 tickets, Beverley’s Weborchard 20 tickets, and Inspire School of Dance and Drama 15. An anonymous local business owner donated 125 tickets, with individual donors adding to the total daily.
“Supporting She Productions’ Pay It Forward campaign is more than just supporting a show – it’s investing in our community’s future,” explains Rich Sutherland, Managing Director of sobananapenguin. “I’m proud that my business can play a part in bringing theatre to all families.”
This year’s production takes a new approach to community involvement. Director of “Bauble Town” and Co-Artistic Director of She Productions, Jessica Duffield, is working with East Riding of Yorkshire Council’s Children’s Participation and Rights Team to develop the story with input from local young carers and children looked after. Thanks to Wykeland’s in-kind support of workshop space at Pop-Up Space, these young people will help shape characters and situations that mirror their own lives. “We’re creating a Christmas story that reflects real family experiences,” says Duffield. “Their input ensures they see themselves represented on stage.”
“Bauble Town” follows Bob, a bauble on a journey between two homes, exploring the meaning of family. The production includes live music, puppetry, and integrated Makaton, with a relaxed environment, and touch tours available on request.
The initiative brings together HEY Children’s University, East Riding of Yorkshire Council’s Children’s Participation and Rights Team, East Riding Libraries, and Hull Schools’ Library Service to ensure donated tickets reach families who might otherwise miss out.
“This campaign shows what happens when a community unites,” adds Alice Palmer, Co-Producer of “Bauble Town” and Co-Artistic Director of She Productions. “We’re not just giving tickets – we’re nurturing future artists, audiences, and dreamers.”
Touring from 30 November to 24 December, Bauble Town will visit East Riding Libraries, local schools, and Pop-Up Space in Hull’s Fruit Market. Tickets are £4, with free entry for babes in arms.
The production follows She Productions’ previous Christmas shows in partnership with East Riding Libraries: The Fairy who Fell off the Christmas Tree (2021), The Pirates of Christmas Island (2022), and The Three Wise Women (2023). As the company approaches its 10-year anniversary in 2025, this initiative demonstrates their commitment to accessible family theatre.
To join the movement and donate a ticket, visit www.sheproductions.co.uk/bauble-town or email admin@sheproductions.co.uk.
Bauble Town is produced in partnership with East Riding Libraries and supported by Arts Council England, East Riding of Yorkshire Council, Horncastle Family Foundation, Morco Products, I AM Fund, Arafest, Hull and East Riding Charitable Trust, The Beverley Arms, and By Claire. Nails.