Set on Bolton’s iconic Winter Hill, Timberlake Wertenbaker’s new play explores what could happen if corporate greed was allowed to take over the town’s beloved moorland and the effect of this on a group of feisty local women, not yet ready to bow down to the might of the developers.
Transforming their reading-group into a powerful political statement where revolution, resistance and rebellion take centre stage, the ladies occupy the part-built sky-scraping hotel as they declare themselves to be ‘Women Against Erection’
The play is delivered in a series of flashbacks; present day sees Emma (Fiona Hampton), daughter of activist Dolly (Denise Black) meeting with some of the women who occupied the building with her mother to find out the truth about what actually happened that day.
Winter Hill is a real ensemble piece with clear and witty narrative and a cast any production would be thrilled to have – it’s a joy to see such talented female actresses under one roof.
Denise Black, is superb as the gutsy and fearless Dolly. She is determined to safeguard the future of Winter Hill for the generations to come to enjoy and explore as she did. Souad Faress takes on the role of Vivian; somewhat mysterious in her background, she is quietly confident and utterly committed to the cause.
Janet Henfrey delivers a fine performance as wheelchair bound Felicity. Weak of body but strong of mind, she offers sharp and witty observations of the world as she sees it. Louise Jamerson’s Beth is less revolutionary than her friends but her loyalty to them soon sees her understanding more their reasons for resistance.
Attempted voice of reason is local councillor Irene (Cathy Tyson). Calm and rational, she attempts to talk the ladies out of their action but you can’t help think she, like the rest of the Council, has been dazzled by the investors as she attempts to justify their approval of the monstrous hotel despite the fact the promised school and social housing seem to have been long forgotten now the developers have moved in.
Resident Octagon artistic director Elizabeth Newman has delivered a thought-provoking and quality piece of drama. This all female cast shine as they strive to decide what makes a heroine and eventually realise that if they are going to be heroines then they will be heroines for humanity, a sentiment that really strikes a chord in the current unsettling political climate.
This is a passionate and spirited piece as we see the underdog fight to make a difference; the women are tired of being suppressed and will go just as far as they need to make sure their voice is heard. They declare that the bullies “…don’t come with machine guns but Power Points and plans” as they unite to show just how strong and important people power can be. A relevant and powerful reminder to us all.
On at the Bolton Octagon until Saturday 3rd June tickets available here https://octagonbolton.co.uk/whats-on/theatre/winter-hill/
