Step back in time with author Rebecca Jenkins for a look at theatre of yesteryear

IF you’ve ever wondered what a night out at the theatre was like a couple of hundred years ago, you’re in luck.

Noted Barnard Castle author Rebecca Jenkins will step back in time for a look at Theatre in Jane Austen’s time when she gives an illustrated talk at The Witham on Tuesday, July 11.

Ms Jenkins’ interest in the period stems from her non-fiction book Fanny Kemble, which chronicled the life of the 19th century actress.

“It made me look into Georgian theatre and I try to give an idea of the experience of going to the theatre at the time, from buying a ticket, what you would look like to what you would see,” she said.

“I always wanted to know what it would be like and it tells you something about society at the time.

“If you know what people laughed at, you know an awful lot about society. It is a way of walking Georgian streets.”

Part of The Witham’s spoken word season, Ms Jenkins’ talk also ties in with The Bowes Museum’s Garrick in Action current exhibition, which celebrates the life of England’s best known actor of the 18th century David Garrick.

Tickets for Theatre in Jane Austen’s time are £5 and the show starts at 7.30pm.