York Theatre Royal will welcome the John Godber Company back to the Studio this May with the world premiere of Jesse North Is Broken.
The new play runs from Monday 11 May to Thursday 14 May, with a press performance on Monday 11 May at 7.45pm.
Written and performed by Martha Godber, the production is directed by Millie Gaston and tells the story of Jesse, a 25-year-old carer from Hull juggling minimum wage work, caring responsibilities and a chaotic inner life.
Set over the course of a single night, the play follows Jesse from care shift to dance floor, from late-night kebab to early morning call-out, as she battles a system that undervalues her and a city that has shaped her.
The piece explores working-class survival in Britain today, highlighting an underpaid care sector, a crumbling system and the pressures placed on young women trying to hold themselves together.
Martha Godber said, “I’m thrilled to be bringing Jesse North Is Broken to York Theatre Royal, it feels like the perfect venue to premiere the show. As someone from Hull, I’ve always been drawn to telling northern stories, and this piece does exactly that. I’m passionate about creating female characters who are unapologetic, bold and command the stage, celebrating the northern female voice in all its complexity.
“At its heart, the show explores connection, pain, love and loss, set against the realities of government policy, the care system and the social pressures of a working-class town. It’s a fearless piece of new writing and I hope it resonates deeply with contemporary audiences.”
A post-show discussion will follow the performance on Wednesday 13 May, and the production carries an age guidance of 15+, with content guidance including strong language and sexual references.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
