Earlier this year, Ryde resident, Barbara Jane Mackie, debuted her first stage musical – Rumpy Pumpy – the true story of two women from Hampshire WI who campaigned to decriminalise all forms of prostitution.
Since it opened at the Apollo Theatre, it’s has received critical acclaim and is now touring the UK.
Podcast with Barbara
We caught up with Barbara earlier this morning to find out more about the musical.
Rumpy Pumpy has been selected by the prestigious fringe theatre, King’s Head in Islington to showcase the Musical next year. Following that, the show moves to the Landour Theatre in Clapham.
Thanks to some Arts Council funding, Barbara will be able to re-cast next year with a professional cast, and planning to take four of the Island actors along with her to work with the professional cast.
How the musical came about
During our interview, Barbara explains the inspiration to the storyline of Rumpy Pumpy. It’s a fascinating story, made all the more interesting by the local connection.
Listen to the full interview to hear how Barbara went from being a published author, Script Editor at BBC Birmingham Drama and TV producer to writing a sell-out Musical.
Click on the play button to listen to the interview
Catch the show before it leaves
If you missed it earlier in the year, the musical is being performed at Medina Theatre on the 27th and 28th November, before transferring to the New Theatre Royal in Portsmouth with it’s brilliant Island cast.
You can book online through the Medina Theatre Website.
‘The show is as exciting and as unusual as its quirky name – hilarious and deeply thought provoking!’ Gillian Jackson, Ministry of Sound
‘A fascinating premise performed with passion by the cast. A hi-energy, impressive achievement by writer/composer Barbara Jane Mackie.’ Jane Prowse, Writer and Director
Image: © Amanda Clarke
