The London Mothers Livestream

Three Women, Three Stories. 

Go back in time and follow young Mary and Doreen as they prepare to give birth 150 miles away from home, during the chaos and uncertainty of World War Two, in this forgotten story from the past. 

Two friends are evacuated to Willersley Castle, near Cromford Derbyshire while Gladys remains in London. Join the three girls as they navigate difficult decisions, while finding unexpected joy, laughter and friendship!  

Fun-loving dreamer Mary, down to earth Doreen, Naïve yet realistic Gladys are opposites yet have a bond that not even war can come between.  

With live music from Santiago Azcueta!  

The play draws from newspaper archives, interviews with original midwives from Willersley Castle and Willersley Babies. This play was first commissioned by Beam and Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Sites to shine a light on ‘The London Mothers’ and those not so fortunate to be evacuated to the haven that was Willersley Castle. 

Fanciful Flock Theatre is a female-led ensemble theatre company founded by Gina Luker-Edwards, made up of six recent Drama School graduates. We create original theatre utilising a blend of naturalism and physical theatre, underscored by live music. We aim to combine our interest in history with creating theatre for all to enjoy. Our focus is telling the untold stories of women from the past!

From starting with rehearsals in the Directors back garden to performing at Fringe Festivals with sold out performances and brilliant audience responses, we continue to devise and perform for our love of theatre and the joy we have on and off stage.

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Writer and Set Designer: Heidi Luker
Director: Gina Luker Edwards

“The writing, production, execution and direction were perfect. A very moving, enjoyable and informative play. I really loved it!” – Rita Kenny

“…This production is wonderfully informative and in equal measure both harrowing and heart-warming. It reminds us of the harsh realities of war and the struggles endured across society, yet it speaks volumes of how humanity prevailed, and hope saw us through the darkest of times.” – Camille Leadbeater, Wanstead Newsletter

“The acting was GREAT and LIVELY. Well done with such simple props. The characters were portrayed clearly. There was NOT A DULL MOMENT, full of life and very enjoyable.” – Anonymous Audience member