Tuesday, 15 April 2025
A Love Letter to a Town that Refused to Sink
In 2025, audiences across the North are invited to experience AKA Theatre Company's exciting new folk musical The Flood.
Based on true accounts of flooding in the Calder Valley, this show invites audiences to celebrate hope, creativity, and the strength of community in the face of disaster.
On Boxing Day 2015, the town of Hebden Bridge was devastated by the worst floods in a century. Homes and businesses were submerged. Lives were turned upside down.
Yet, amidst the chaos, the spirit of the Valley rose. Neighbours joined forces, artists found new inspiration and Hebden Bridge rebuilt itself stronger than ever.
Performed by a cast of five talented actor-musicians, the show blends live traditional music and heartfelt storytelling to celebrate the strength of community.
"We're thrilled to launch The Flood at Leeds Playhouse before taking it to audiences in Hebden Bridge, York, Manchester, and other communities," says director Lucie Raine.
"This is a story about what it means to come together when everything falls apart. It's not just a play - it's a tribute to resilience and creativity, inspired by Hebden Bridge and its people. It's a celebration for all communities who have faced adversity and emerged stronger."
Photo: Ross McFadden
The Flood premieres at Leeds Playhouse (19th April) and will then tour to Chester Storyhouse (24th - 26th), The Atkinson Southport (1st May), Georgian Theatre Royal Richmond (2nd May), 53Two Manchester (7th - 8th May), Friargate Theatre York (9th - 10th May), Hull Truck Theatre (13th May) and Hebden Bridge Little Theatre (16th - 17th May).
See also
HebWeb Feature on the 2015 Boxing Day Flood
New play brings back memories of floods in real 'Happy Valley' - BBC News article