LIVE THEATRE presents the World premiere of
ASTELL AND WOOLF
By SHELAGH STEPHENSON
Directed by KAREN TRAYNOR
From one of the country’s most prominent and acclaimed playwrights comes this outrageous new play that digs deep into the North East’s radical roots.
When pioneering feminist Mary Astell (born in Newcastle) meets Virginia Woolf in the afterlife, the result is a riotous, thought-provoking clash of minds. Packed with big ideas, bigger laughs, and joyful feminist fire, it’s a rare spotlight on Astell – a visionary often left out of the history books. Deep, funny, and unapologetically smart – this is feminism with flair, right back in the North East, where it all began for Astell.
It's no joke being Newcastle's first feminist!
Save 10% OFF full price 🎟️ if you book by Tue 16 Dec 2025 (for performances between Wed 20 May - Sat 6 Jun 2026). Discount will apply automatically.
Live Theatre and FORUM Books Collab - The Feminist Book Fair
Sat 23 May - 1pm till 10pm
Joining forces to celebrate the feminist voices throughout literature and beyond, Live Theatre and FORUM Books will host The Feminist Book Fair at Live Theatre on 23rd May as part of the programme of events around flagship new work Astell & Woolf.
From key texts that define the movement to lost voices from across the world, The Feminist Book Fair will explore modern titles as well as exploring the classics we've all pretended to have read but haven’t actually been brave enough to pick up.
There will be a wide selection of works, exploring all points of intersectionality with books to challenge, inspire and comfort. The Fair will be staffed by FORUM’s highly skilled booksellers who will be available to point you in the right direction, whether you're looking for somewhere to start or perhaps to push your own boundaries of feminist reading.
We look forward to seeing you there!
