Modest

Performed from Fri 16 — Sat 17 Jun

“Cause here she comes. She’s the baddest, bitchin’ babe of art.”

It’s 1874. Fearless Elizabeth Thompson rocks the Royal Academy with her groundbreaking painting, 'Roll Call,’ but later falls just two votes short of becoming the first woman elected to the Academy.

Step into a punk-infused world of artistic rebellion and join us on an electrifying journey as we dive into the story of this trailblazing Victorian superstar. 'Modest' is a mind-bending fusion of theatre, music hall, and drag king cabaret, fueled by punk vibes that'll make your heart race.

With a cast of incredible actor-musicians, this farcical show will break your heart, ignite your passion, and start a revolution.

Written by Ellen Brammar ('I Hate Alone') with music by Rachel Barnes, 'Modest' is a good night out co-directed by Paul Smith (Middle Child) and Luke Skilbeck (Milk Presents).

For ages 14+. Contains strong language, misogyny and detailed description of combat injuries.
Running time: 2hr 20m, including an interval

Presented by Middle Child ('The Canary and the Crow,' 'All We Ever Wanted Was Everything'), 'Modest' was developed with the support of the National Theatre’s Generate programme and is funded by Arts Council England and Hull City Council.


Friday 16 June 2023
The ultimate LGBTQIA+ evening at the New Wolsey Theatre:

6:45pm - Welcome Meet & Greet. Join the new Chief Executive/Artistic Director of the New Wolsey Theatre, Douglas Rintoul, for an LGBTQIA+ meet up before the show Modest. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community himself, he would love to meet other community members from Ipswich and Suffolk. It’s a chance to chat about the Theatre’s commitment to inclusivity and to discuss ways in which the Theatre can play a bigger role in supporting the community.

7:30pm: Modest

9:30PM: Queer Joy Disco. It’s a queer pop takeover! And you’re invited to join the party! The fun doesn’t stop when the lights go down on stage - oh no! Join us in association with Suffolk Pride, as we’ll be partying ‘til late with DJ TOM SUPER MACHO, spinning hit after hit from your favourite queer pop icons. Head to the bar after the performance to revel in our glittering celebration of all things queer!

Join us for a Friday night like no other.

Ticket information for Friday 16 June:
The pre-show meet and greet and Queer Joy Disco are free to attend, but please book your place via the link below so we’re aware of numbers and access requirements.

Tickets for ‘Modest’ are booked separately – you can book these further down on this page.