Black Teeth and a Brilliant Smile

Freedom Studios in association with Red Ladder present

Black Teeth and a Brilliant Smile

By Adelle Stripe
Adapted for the stage by Lisa Holdsworth

We’re in The Beacon, Buttershaw, and it’s Christmas 1990. That’s in Bradford.
Andrea Dunbar is here, she’s the one that wrote Rita Sue and Bob Too and The Arbor –  a true Bradford lass, a mum, sister, and best friend too.

‘Black Teeth and a Brilliant Smile’ is a play, adapted by Lisa Holdsworth from Adelle Stripe’s acclaimed novel of Dunbar’s life. Filled with a host of Bradford characters, laugh out loud banter, and some dark times too. 

Men have alwaystold Andrea’s story. But this evening, she’s telling it for herself.

All performances will be followed by a post-show Q&A featuring the cast and director. For Grove Hall, Hawksworth Wood and BITMO only the Q&A will also feature playwright Lisa Holdsworth. 

Press

“In Holdsworth’s snappy, engaging adaptation, the drama becomes a sort of dialogue between Dunbar’s older and younger selves…”

★★★★ The Guardian

“Poignant and stark staging of Adelle Stripe’s novel based on the life of Bradford playwright Andrea Dunbar” 

★★★★ The Stage

“The set, by Hannah Sibai, feels authentic, as does the entire production.” 

★★★★ The Times

“The five female performers are terrific.”

“This adaptation is lively, engaging and packs one hell of a punch.”

British Theatre Guide

“Powerful and Convincing”

★★★★ The Reviews Hub

★★★★ Broadway World

★★★★ North West End

“A really impressive feat of acting and staging.”

The Culture Vulture 

“The truth does hurt, but thank goodness Dunbar chose to tell it.” 

The Independent