About

Step aboard for a new theatre experience on the Leeds-Liverpool canal.

About the project: Bradford theatre producers Meg Wilson and Jazmine Franks of Northern Duck Productions present a new play aboard canal boats in Bingley and Saltaire. Inspired by Meg’s ancestor, Rose Illingworth, the narrative explores Rose’s struggle between tradition and modernity, highlighting Bradford’s industrial past.

About the show: Rose Illingworth, growing up on her family’s canal boat, faces a life-changing choice as her 18th birthday nears: stay aboard or step ashore to marry a kind boy with deep roots on land. Torn between loyalty and the unknown, Rose navigates love, identity, and independence in this coming-of-age tale.

The show takes place on Kennet, an original Leeds & Liverpool short boat. Audience members will step onto the boat and descend into the hold, where the performance unfolds.

Artist-Led Project Awards: Supported by Bradford 2025 Artist-led Project Awards.

Credits: Supported by Arts Council England, Bradford 2025, Kennet – Leeds & Liverpool Canal Society, and The Bradford Playhouse.

>> Explore more events in the UK City of Culture as part of the #Bradford2025 celebration.