We Were Told There Was Dancing

To mark the 50th anniversary of the decriminalisation of homosexuality in England and Wales the Royal Exchange’s award-winning Young Company present We Were Told There Was Dancing.

The 60 minutes production was created and developed by the company and is inspired by the work of journalist Peter Wildeblood, an influential figure in the decriminalisation of homosexuality, Straight Jacket by Matthew Todd and Channel 4’s documentary Hunted which charted the extent of gay hate crime in Russia.

What results is an immersive journey through the underground realms of the Royal Exchange building offering glances at gay life through the last 60 years.

This is a fascinating tour on its own – a whole underground Manchester world that most people will not know exists. But the performance adds another layer - from voyeur to participant, the decades pass by as we meet an array of characters each with their own story.

Congratulations to director Matt Hassall and the ensemble cast of young actors who bring the tales to life in an exhilarating experience that makes us laugh, makes us cry and provides a few scary moments along the way.

A great use of this hidden space and high praise to the actors who often have to think on their feet when the expectant audience do the unexpected!

Fantabulosa! You don’t have to be a hoofer, but you’ll need to keep your lallies strong and your ogles keen for a dolly eek. 3 knocks and you’re in – prepare to be immersed!

At the Royal Exchange Theatre until 20th August 2017

Published: 18-Aug-2017 (4483)