Photo: Alex Brenner

Beryl

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Beryl Burton MBE, OBE – twice World Road-race Champion, five times World Pursuit Champion – was never meant to cycle.

Aged 11, a serious illness left her with a weakened heart. Doctors warned against strenuous exercise for the rest of her life.

Aged 30, branded ‘the Yorkshire housewife’ and with no financial sponsorship, she became the first sportswoman in history to break a men’s competitive record.

Featuring a host of unforgettable characters and a great big dollop of Northern wit, Maxine Peake’s freewheeling play is the extraordinary true story of a woman who pushed at the limits, took on the status quo – and won.

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Written by Maxine Peake

Directed by Marieke Audsley

Design Ed Ullyart

Lighting Simon Bedwell

Costume Sylvia Eales

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Produced East Riding Theatre and the Arcola Theatre.

Performed at the Arcola Theatre Oct-Nov 2019 and after a hugely popular sell out run Beryl returned in Jan-Feb 2020.

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★★★★★ “A delightful tale of eccentricity, determination, rising above disaster ... simply enchants” – Reviews Hub

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★★★★ "Tom Lorcan and Mark Conway are funny and engaging in their many roles. Conway’s physical comedy is wildly applauded, and his mid-air splits are rather special." – Everything Theatre

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★★★★ “Joyful, uplifting and utterly delightful ... Get on your bike and get to Dalston!” – LondonTheatre1

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★★★★ “Peake's writing is full of funny and caring moments, which are all realised by the cast with dedication ... it is impossible to puncture the play's warmth” – BroadwayWorld UK

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★★★★ “A winner ... blessed with a superb ensemble cast” – The Morning Star

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★★★★ “A show full of energy and enthusiasm ... that will leave you with a smile on your face” – West End Wilma

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★★★★ “A loveable tongue-in-cheek delivery and a cracking pace throughout” – London Box Office

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