Beryl at Bolton Library Theatre

Bolton Octagon’s season of ‘out and about’ theatre continues into 2019, as the extensive revamp of the town centre building continues. The eagerly anticipated new building is due to open in spring 2020 and until then, the theatre will produce shows at Bolton Library Theatre, the University of Bolton Stadium and at the theatre’s interim base in the Market Place shopping centre.

The Octagon Theatre have announced a splendid season of bold performance.

It’s also Lotte Wakeham’s first season as Artistic Director and the Octagon Theatre have announced a splendid season of bold performance. Beginning this exciting season is Beryl, a critically acclaimed show which tells the extraordinary tale of the often overlooked sporting hero, Beryl Warburton.

Discover how Beryl Burton became a record-breaking world champion and a cycling legend.

This new play is written by award-winning actress and former Octagon Youth Theatre member, Maxine Peake. Set in the 1960s, this dynamic performance tells the tale of one the world’s greatest unsung sporting heroes. Directed by Kimberley Sykes, this funny and moving story speeds to life in the intimate setting of Bolton’s Library Theatre.

After falling ill during her 11+ exam, Beryl is told she won’t amount to anything. Fast-forward several years, and a blossoming workplace romance with charismatic amateur cyclist Charlie Burton, Beryl finds her true love. And not just with Charlie – but with the thrill and freedom of racing along on two wheels.

Make sure you get yourself down to Bolton’s Library Theatre this autumn to discover how Beryl Burton – wife, mother, northern lass – became a record-breaking world champion and a cycling legend.