Arcola Theatre and East Riding Theatre present

Beryl

by Maxine Peake

Directed by Marieke Audsley

Beryl is now sold out. If you would like tickets, you can:
RACING BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND!
Extension announced  ■  14 January – 8 February 2020  ■  Find out more »

Meet Beryl Burton, the greatest woman on two wheels, in this trailblazing tale from actor and writer Maxine Peake.

Beryl Burton MBE, OBE – twice World Road-race Champion, five times World Pursuit Champion – was never meant to cycle.

Aged 11, a serious illness left her with a weakened heart. Doctors warned against strenuous exercise for the rest of her life.

Aged 30, branded ‘the Yorkshire housewife’ and with no financial sponsorship, she became the first sportswoman in history to break a men’s competitive record.

Featuring a host of unforgettable characters and a great big dollop of Northern wit, Maxine Peake’s freewheeling play is the extraordinary true story of a woman who pushed at the limits, took on the status quo – and won.

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★★★★★ “A delightful tale of eccentricity, determination, rising above disaster ... simply enchants”Reviews Hub

★★★★ “Take everyone to hear her story. It’s so exhilarating, hopeful and heartening and Peake’s script is superbly funny”Everything Theatre

★★★★ “Joyful, uplifting and utterly delightful ... Get on your bike and get to Dalston!”LondonTheatre1

★★★★ “Peake's writing is full of funny and caring moments, which are all realised by the cast with dedication ... it is impossible to puncture the play's warmth”BroadwayWorld UK

★★★★ “A show full of energy and enthusiasm ... that will leave you with a smile on your face”West End Wilma

★★★★ “A loveable tongue-in-cheek delivery and a cracking pace throughout”London Box Office

★★★★ “The moving tale of a gritty, indefatigable fighter ... Well worth catching”Act Drop

“It's a blast ... A really good yarn and four wildly talented actors. What's not to like?”Camden New Journal

“A gloriously happy, funny and moving play ... puts the record straight and restores the legacy of this amazing woman”Islington Gazette

“Audsley’s production rips along”The Stage