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• 17 July 2025 /
• Theatre in (and around) the Chocolate Factory

Join us for this fascinating heritage talk with Catherine Hindson. A balance of Work and Play was at the centre of Cadbury’s commitment to their employees’ well-being, with the Bournville factory a site of ground-breaking approaches to staff mental and physical health and education. Amongst the recreational and educational activities Cadbury’s offered employees were theatre, literature, music and the fine arts; pastimes and classes that encouraged and drew on their imagination and creativity. In this talk, Catherine Hindson will explore the first decades of Bournville Dramatic Society and their close connection with the early years of Birmingham Repertory Theatre, alongside the roles drama played at Woodbrooke College, Fircroft College and the Girls Day Continuation School.

This is a follow-up to a talk given by Catherine Hindson in 2024. At the earlier talk the scene was set, and the early story of Bournville's dramatic endeavours uncovered. In this new talk the story will unfold further bringing a little known aspect of Bournville's heritage to life.

Catherine Hindson is Professor of Theatre History at the University of Bristol and a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society. Her research focuses on how theatre can help us to understand the past, and has included writings on theatre and celebrity, heritage, ghosts, and well-being. She has previously published two books, Female Performance Practices on the fin-de-siècle stages of London and Paris (2007) and London’s West End Actresses and the Origins of Celebrity Culture, 1880-1920 (2016). She is currently working on women leaders in early twentieth century industry and their connections with arts and creativity. She also really likes chocolate!

This heritage talk takes place at 7pm on Thursday 17th July 2025, and lasts for about an hour followed by a Q+A.

Admission includes a chance to explore Selly Manor Museum so please do come early to enjoy the Tudor manor. Refreshments are also included.

Venue
Selly Manor Museum, Maple Road, Bournville, B30 2AE

Cost and Booking
£7 per person. To book please call Selly Manor Museum on 0121 472 0199 or book online via Eventbrite:

The talk takes place in the medieval hall of Minworth Greaves which is on the grounds floor and is wheelchair accessible. You will find detailed information about accessibility on the Your visit section of our website. If you would like to know more or discuss accessibility then please call the Selly Manor Museum team on 0121 472 0199.