Stage Rights!: The Actresses' Franchise League, Activism and Politics 1908-58

Drawing upon previously unseen archival material, this book brings to life the story of the Actresses' Franchise League from 1908-1958, building a picture of this diverse, exciting and innovative organisation that opens up and extends previous scholarship of the suffrage movement, and of political and feminist networks in twentieth century theatre.

Format: Hardback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 11 April 2018
Publisher: Manchester University Press

Stage Rights! delves into the remarkable work and enduring legacy of the Actresses Franchise League, the pioneering feminist political theatre group of the 20th century. Founded in 1908 with the noble mission of supporting the suffrage movement through the power of theatre, the League and its dedicated members paved the way for groundbreaking opportunities for women both on and off the stage. They shattered stereotypes, challenged conventions, and crafted new work that was deeply inspired by the suffrage movement. Moreover, the League played a vital role in the performative propaganda of the campaign, using the arts to amplify the voices of women and rally support for their cause.

This groundbreaking book, thanks to its extensive use of new archival material, offers a fresh perspective on both suffrage and theatre histories. It is the first to provide a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of the Actresses Franchise League, its membership, and its groundbreaking work. The volume is structured as a historiographically innovative critical biography of the organization spanning its fifty-year journey, inviting a complete reassessment of the League's place within the established narratives of political theatre development in the UK.

Through its meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Stage Rights! sheds light on the untold stories of these trailblazing women and their unwavering commitment to gender equality. It serves as a testament to the power of theatre to inspire change, challenge norms, and pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable society. This essential book will captivate scholars, theatre enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the history of women's activism and the role of theatre in shaping social movements.

Weight: 470g
Dimension: 145 x 222 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526114785