VISITORS to Croome this month might encounter a suffragette or two, as the centenary if the successful Votes for Women campaign is marked by the stately home.

Drama students from the University of Gloucester will give a performance of Shoulder to Shoulder in the house and gardens, so that the struggle for women’s suffrage will not be forgotten.

“The University are very lucky to have a unique relationship with the National Trust at Croome,” said Fiona Ross, Theatre Director and Senior Lecturer in Drama at the University of Gloucestershire.

“A visit in early January left our drama students inspired and excited about the opportunity to perform there, with the gardens and house offering a unique setting for their production of Shoulder to Shoulder, which examines the suffrage protest movement led by Emmeline Pankhurst - a campaign that helped to shape our world and give a voice to women. This promenade performance aims to entertain with live music, singing and dance as well as celebrating some of the remarkable women and men of the Universal Suffrage campaign.”

She added: “On the day, we are also encouraging visitors to wear something purple to support the women’s colour of the year which is ultra-violet.””

The performances will begin at the top of Church Hill in the parkland at 11.15am and 1.15pm on Thursday March 22.

Further information at: 01905 371006 or visit the website www.nationaltrust.org.uk/croome

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