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Singers not Sinners @ Oldham Parish Church
‘Singers not Sinners’ was premiered at Millgate Arts Centre in June 2022 to sell-out houses. Many people missed it so by public demand Saddleworth Players have been asked to go on tour and perform in Oldham Parish Church (St Mary’s and St Peter) for one night only.
Tuesday 30th August 7.30pm
Oldham Parish Church (St Mary’s & St Peter) Oldham, OL1 3SH
Singers not Sinners tells the story of the first time women sang in a church choir in 1701, in Oldham. A journey often fraught with tensions and cries of witchcraft, as the gently humorous and talented Oldhamers battle to have a voice, and lift everyone’s spirits with their angelic sound.
The year is 1701. Elias Hall, the choir master at St. Mary’s Parish church, Oldham has disbanded his discordant choir and needs to urgently replace the singers in time for the Easter service.
His quest brings him in contact with angelic voices from across the parish, but unfortunately for Elias, the voices belong to women, and women are banned from singing in church. Elias’ determination brings him in conflict with key figures in the parish as he and his new choir risk everything to change the course of history and have women, for the very first time, raise their voices in song during church services.
By local playwrights Livi Michael and Carol Davies
“We are not beasts, to be stricken dumb – we are singers, not sinners – who can lift up our voices to God!”
” If women can sing in the hearth and home, I say they can sing to us in God’s house.”
“ ..when have folk in Oldham ever done as we’re told?…”
Please don’t worry. We will have a list of ticket-holders, so you can just give your name. Also, I will re-send your email.