Stories explore Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter

Published: 3 August 2022
Reporter: Steve Orme

“Unexpected spaces and stories”: Gem of a Place

A collective of professional writers from the West Midlands has produced six “dramatic” stories, each exploring a “unique” aspect of Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter.

BOLDtext Playwrights is behind Gem of a Place, part of the Birmingham 2022 Festival, which will lead audiences through side streets, past old factories and into some of the area’s most secret places.

Tim Stimpson of BOLDtext Playwrights said, “we uncovered a treasure trove of fascinating stories from our research into the area’s history, and from talking to people who live and work in the Jewellery Quarter today.

“It’s a dynamic and constantly evolving district, and our show aims to introduce people to unexpected spaces and stories which illuminate and celebrate this uniquely creative area.”

The plays are Our Time by Liz John, Mightier than the Sword by Nicola Jones, Vittoria 1813 by Vanessa Oakes, Sayan Kent’s Chains of Gold, Daylight Robbery by Tim Stimpson and Julia Wright’s Dayus Square.

Gem of a Place will start at the Chamberlain Clock in the Golden Square and will last an hour. It will run three times a day, at 11:30AM, 2 and 5PM from Friday 9 until Sunday 11 September, and also from Friday 16 until Sunday 18 September. Audience members will be able to chat with writers and creatives at the Hive Café, Frederick Street after each performance.

Gem of a Place will take place on public pavements and in some buildings. The route includes some steps. Visitors are advised to wear suitable footwear and outdoor clothing. Places are limited and can be booked at the Eventbrite web site.

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