Longnor Audience Enjoys New Play About Shropshire Woman
Alison Utting’s new play highlights Katherine Plymley’s life and legacy in Shropshire
Longnor, Shropshire, Katherine Plymley, Alison Utting, Dame Agnes Hunt
Longnor: A new play about Katherine Plymley captivated the audience. Alison Utting wrote and performed this dramatic monologue. She lives in north Shropshire and focuses on women from the area’s history.
Alison gained recognition for her engaging presentations. Her first talk was about Eglantyne Jebb, co-founder of Save The Children. She later created a monologue about Dame Agnes Hunt, which was well-received.
Alison shared that it took her a year to develop this new performance. She was inspired by an exhibition at last year’s International Women’s Day event in Wem Town Hall. Students from Thomas Adams School showcased important women from Shropshire’s history.
That’s when she discovered Katherine Plymley’s name. Katherine lived in Longnor during Jane Austen’s time. Her brother, Joseph, was an Archdeacon and campaigned against injustice and poverty.
Joseph was involved in the abolition of slavery and knew leaders like William Wilberforce. The Plymley family even hosted Black Africans Oloudah Equiano and Prince Naimbana.
Alison noted that Katherine kept a journal, documenting her experiences. Over 200 handwritten notebooks are preserved at Shropshire Archives. Katherine also created beautiful watercolour paintings of nature.
Alison found this collection to be a treasure trove. She loves bringing Katherine’s words to life for audiences. For her performance, Alison wore a costume made by local enthusiast Holly Kirby, using Regency patterns.
The first show received an enthusiastic response. It took place near Katherine’s birthplace. Descendants of Archdeacon Joseph and other guests attended, enjoying homemade cakes and tea afterward.
They could also buy a biography of Joseph, written by Douglas Grounds. The play, ‘Miss Plymley Recollects’, will be performed at various venues, including the Unitarian Chapel in Shrewsbury.
Alison is also sharing her talks with W.I.s, U3As, schools, and history groups across Shropshire. She feels privileged to share these women’s stories and loves when people express newfound interest in them.