Play Details
Context
Artistic Director
Max Stafford Clark
Dates Performed
Saturday 26th April 1986
Jerwood Theatre Upstairs
Play Details
Synopsis
Bradford, 1980s
Shirley is a snapshot of life in the working-class council houses of Bradford during the 1980s. Shirley, a young woman navigating the tumultuous relationship with her mother, finds herself entrenched in the everyday struggles and small joys of her community. Amidst the backdrop of Thatcher-era Britain, the play highlights the interactions between Shirley, her mother, her best friend, and a series of boyfriends, offering a poignant and sometimes comical look at their lives.
Shirley by Andrea Dunbar is a short, powerful play that delves into themes of family dynamics, class struggles, and the resilience of the working class. Dunbar’s writing, known for its stark honesty and unflinching portrayal of real life, shines through in this piece. The narrative is a blend of drama and comedy, reflecting the bittersweet reality of the characters’ lives. Dunbar’s sharp dialogue and keen observation of her community bring authenticity and depth to the play, making it a timeless piece that resonates with contemporary audiences.
What our readers said
It explores an explosive dynamic between mother and daughter (both characters are very young) who seem to hate each other, essentially because they have been abused and let down by the men in their lives. It also explores both of their desires for sex from men, almost as currency and a way to control men.
What’s it like reading this play now? Hows it aged? What does it speak to?
‘Shirley’ erupts immediately off the page and it felt shocking (and thrilling!) This play doesn’t stop for one moment, all of the characters dare to keep pushing at each other and that’s what I felt made it such a zippy read, they all have a force, to keep poking and pushing – because they have very little to lose. I feel it would directly speak to an audience today – the cost of living crisis!
What did is it tell us about the past and present?
The way The Mother and Shirley openly talk about domestic violence towards women in the home by their partners screamed off the page because it had such an air of normality about it. There has been a massive shift since me too, I wonder how it would resonate now?
What films or music does it make you think of?
Films: I, Daniel Blake. This is England, Blue Bag Life
Music: Love Will Tear us apart again by Joy Vision
