Andrea Dunbar began writing her play The Arbor at the age of 15. Just three years later, it premiered at London’s Royal Court Theatre and was later extended and performed in New York. Her 1987 film, Rita, Sue and Bob Too, has become a Northern cult classic. Andrea’s life was short and troubled, but also very productive and her honest depictions of life on a run-down Bradford estate have made her one of Yorkshire’s most inspirational writers.
We are delighted to welcome actor George Costigan (Bob) to talk about his experiences acting in Rita, Sue and Bob Too, one of the most controversial films of the 1980s that was both set and shot in Bradford.
Revd Dr Claire MacDonald will reflect on her time spent with Dunbar at Keighley Women’s Aid and writer, Adelle Stripe, will discuss her debut novel, Black Teeth and a Brilliant Smile, which was inspired by Dunbar’s extraordinary life and works.
This event will examine how Dunbar captured the humour, humanity and hope of some of Bradford’s most deprived areas, without shying away from the problems they faced.