Hand in Hand Theatre Presents All-Female Double Bill THE WOMAN'S VOICE at St George's Hall

The award-winning Hand in Hand Theatre returns to the auspicious Concert Room at St George's Hall Liverpool this July to present a double-bill of two very different plays about women!

After wowing audiences with their multi-award winning show RIP Mr Shakespeare last August, the Wirral theatre company returns to the Hall with another thought-provoking production - The Woman's Voice - on Sunday, 16th July.

First up is Ladies in Bonnets, a timely celebration of the heroines of Jane Austen in the 200th anniversary year of her death. 200 years on and her characters are still vibrant, witty and engaging. This July, an all-female cast of nine present Austen's very witty, honest and entertaining observations of women of her time, bringing to life some of her characters from her famous novels including Sense and Sensibility, Mansfield Park, Pride and Prejudice, Emma, Northanger Abbey and Persuasion.

Artistic director Bev Clark explained: "Her heroines are sometimes innocent, often courageous and outspoken but always loyal and true in matters of the heart. The character of Jane herself narrates as we learn a little of her life, family and views of the woman's place in the world of mid-class regency England."

In contrast, Baggage is a new one-act play written by Bev Clark which deals with the issues of homelessness and friendship. This two-hander sees two very different women, Sandra and Annie, both with their own emotional as well as physical baggage, form an unlikely bond. One is weary and frustrated, the other carries a tragic secret, but through it all they find hope. Sometimes funny, sometimes sad, this short play is touching and honest.

Bev's heart felt story is often funny, very thought-provoking and at time very sad. It doesn't deal with the day-to-day brutal living on the streets directly but uncovers one woman's back story of why she ended up there.

Bev explained: "When you see someone on the street, it's easy to judge but no-one knows that person's story and sometimes all they need is a hand to reach out and offer friendship."

St George's Hall manager Alan Smith said: "This double bill will be a fantastic display of female work; we look forward to welcoming Hand in Hand back to St George's Hall this summer!"

For further information visit www.handinhandtheatrproductions.co.uk or call 07443 643633. Follow them on Facebook and twitter @hihtheatre.