Barleycorn

It’s been raining all summer. But that’s not going to stop the residents of Hopley Drew gathering in The Barleycorn Inn for their annual Harvest show and one final knees up before the pub closes its doors for good. As the villagers show off their soggy crops, share songs and tales of local lore, and wait with baited breath for the results of the raffle, a wild storm rages. Some say it’s just typical British weather, but others say it’s something much more sinister... Can this drenched and disenchanted community band together to overcome whatever lurks outside? Acclaimed folk theatre company Riddlestick Theatre present a new musical comedy inspired by English lore, folk horror, and ‘wyrd’ 1970s telly, featuring traditional and original music and dance. ★★★★ “A hilarious mash-up of folk song, dance and storytelling" - StageTalk Magazine ★★★★ "A rustic and delightfully silly musical comedy” - The Fix Magazine “Their energy is boundless, the script fiercely intelligent and the original live music bound to stay dancing through your head” - The Guardian on The Cabinet of Madame Fanny Du Thé “Creative, imaginative theatre at its very best” - Bristol 24/7 on The Cabinet of Madame Fanny Du Thé

A part of what makes 53two special is our dedication to supporting grass-roots artists, new companies and start-up creatives whilst striving for a quality of theatre that exceeds expectations.

Sometimes, for new, talented companies and individuals, they first need a platform to explore, play, develop and grow not only themselves but their craft as a Manchester ensemble.

With this in mind, 53New was born. A platform and initiative, as one of our charitable activities, to provide just that - a theatre space and/or rehearsal room at a reduced rate where those starting out can tread the boards in front of an audience, try their work out and play safely without breaking the bank and in a safe, supportive space.