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Image: Andrea Dunbar © Don McPhee

Erica Whyman directs a one-night-only celebration of one of Bradford’s most distinctive voices.

Andrea Dunbar wrote vividly and brilliantly of the Bradford she knew. Born and raised in Buttershaw, she made her name as a teenager when The Arbor, her first play, premiered to huge acclaim at London’s Royal Court. She followed it with Rita, Sue and Bob Too and Shirley, two plays that combine domestic drama, social comment and wicked humour to powerful effect – and that remain just as relevant today.  

We’re celebrating this extraordinary writer at St George’s Hall, marking 45 years since the premiere of The Arbor and 35 years since her tragically early death. Directed by Erica Whyman, the Yorkshire-born former Artistic Director of the Royal Shakespeare Company, and developed with Bradford writer Kat Rose-Martin, The Dreams I Had presents staged readings of selections from Dunbar’s works – showcasing the explosive talent of this once-in-a-generation writer.  

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