Mister Stokes' Kickstarter Campaign
Pagelight have launched a Kickstarter campaign to raise money for its next production: Mister Stokes: The Man-Woman of Manchester. Pagelight has secured an Arts Council grant, but this doesn’t cover all of its costs. This play will be premiered at the National Festival of LGBT History in Manchester.
Mister Stokes: The Man-Woman of Manchester tells the story of a forgotten trans pioneer. We want everyone to be able to see this play for free. You can help us to keep this event free by donating to our Kickstarter campaign.
The few records that exist about Mister Stokes show he lived a successful life in Victorian Manchester. But, like many trans pioneers, he has been forgotten. Pagelight Productions have brought together talent from Manchester’s theatre scene to dramatise his story at the People’s History Museum on 27th February.
Joey Hateley, Artistic Director of TransAction Theatre, will play Harry Stokes. Jo Dakin, the winner of best drama at last year’s Greater Manchester Fringe Awards, will play Ada. Joey Hateley said: “The opportunity to bring a true story of a Victorian trans pioneer to life, in my home town, is a possibility I never dreamed of. This incredible series of events leaves me especially honoured to play the role of Mister Stokes: The ‘Man-woman of Manchester.’”
Writer Abi Hynes, who recently wrote Seven Veils: An Evening with Mata Hari, received help from LGBT historian Emma Vickers to research Mister Stokes’ story. Abi said: “It's a remarkable story and it’s incredible that it's remained untold so far. It feels like a wonderful opportunity to bring to light part of Manchester's history that should, by all rights, be well-known.”
Stephen Whittle, a leading communicator on gender issues in the UK, has provided Pagelight with some exceptional rewards. Fancy afternoon tea with Stephen? Or a signed copy of ‘Perfidious Man’? Then head to our Kickstarter campaign and donate today. Your money will go towards ensuring Mister Stokes is remembered.
Go to our Kickstarter campaign here.
