Date/Time
Sat 17/02/2024
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Location
Coombe Bissett Village Hall,Shutts Lane, Coombe Bissett, SP5 4LU
Meet the hard-working Maria Ridout of Coombe Bissett, in this fascinating ‘in-character’ storytelling performance.
Tickets on Eventbrite here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/maria-ridout-the-coombe-express-registration-789126146547
A familiar sight in the late 1800s, Mrs Ridout and her donkey cart, known as the Salisbury and Coombe Express, took to and fetched produce from the market in Salisbury.
A redoubtable women, Mrs Ridout and her trusted donkeys Jack and Jane, would have seen much of rural life in the late 19th century as she journeyed around.
Mrs Ridout and her donkey cart were famously captured in oil by artist Frank Brooks, who painted them whilst walking backwards, the painting is now part of the Salisbury Museum collection.
Now Maria’s life has been carefully researched and pieced together, imagined and made into a delightful performance by scriptwriter Christy Fearn and superb storyteller and character actor Michele O’Brien.
Discover what rural life on the road would have been like for this indomitable woman, and get a feel for the local traditions, events and characters in this special performance. The performance will be followed by an opportunity to ask questions of the storyteller and our wonderful volunteer researcher.
The performance is suitable for ages 10+. Refreshments available for a donation. If the weather is fair this performance may take place outside, you will be advised ahead of the event.
Please note: The performance runs for approx. 45 mins and will be followed by a Q&A session.
Tickets on Eventbrite here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/maria-ridout-the-coombe-express-registration-789126146547