Sue Ryding is one half of legendary comedy duo LipService. In 2022 her comedy partner Maggie Fox died and Sue was left with a shipping container full of stage props, costumes, wigs, hats, shoes, sheep, you name it. This show looks at all the “stuff” we accumulate, hoard and hate to let go. In this humorous and creative response to grief, Sue struggles to part with a life sized stuffed sheep, a badger onesie, some ruby slippers, a sinking bog, Charlotte Bronte’s knickers and a host of soft toys.
Touring anecdotes are combined with archive footage from LipService shows. We follow the stories of things Sue has already given away, the wicker horse that appeared every night in an improvised panto, the vintage suitcases turned into a sculpture in Stockport, the crazy Chief Exec of the Tall Ships Festival who dresses up as a fish!
Not all the items will be making it back up the loft ladder, so the audience is invited to take something home. Sue is aiming to end up with “the right stuff”, a small selection that captures the essence of LipService Theatre to go into a national theatre collection. Help Sue on her journey of letting go.
Venue Details
A pioneering theatre with a unique Northern Voice, locally rooted, global in outlook, inspiring artists, audiences and communities to reach their greatest potential. We produce and present inspiring theatre that reflects the diversity of a modern Britain. We provide the resources, space and support to grow people and ideas, are an ambassador for our city, a flagship for our region and a welcoming home for our communities. Through our work with schools and local communities we engage with thousands of young people, disabled groups and adults, offering opportunities to participate in the arts, whether as the first step into a career, a way to build confidence and meet new people, or as part of a rounded education.
Facilities
Accessible Toilets
Baby Changing
Blue-Badge Parking
Hearing Loop
Level Access
Wheelchair Access