Becoming Hesba

A glimpse into the life and work of Hesba Stretton.'Becoming Hesba' draws on Hesba's own logbook entries and other archives to bring this forgotten Shropshire writer and activist to life, in a costumed theatrical presentation from the creator of 'Aggie'. It includes extracts from her books and stories, many of which are set in Shropshire.When Hesba Stretton died in 1911, she was a world-renowned author and her books could be found in almost every household. From humble beginnings as a postmaster's daughter in Wellington, her career as a professional writer began when her sister secretly sent one of her stories to Charles Dickens. He demanded more - and the world soon knew her name.
Hesba's most popular novel, Jessica's First Prayer, outsold Alice in Wonderland nearly ten times over! Yet today, she is largely forgotten, her style of writing no longer suited to our literary appetites.
Hesba did not crave publicity, but she did later use her influence and energy to help found the NSPCC, establishing protections for the vulnerable, suffering children who inspired and populated her novels.This performance is being premiered at Wellington, where Hesba was born and grew up, and All Stretton, where she spent many happy years and holidays (and from where she took her adopted surname).The performance will last approximately 1 hour, followed by Q&A. Refreshments will be served.