Selina Todd’s new book launches at Salford Museum and Art Gallery

Selina Todd’s new authorised biography of Broughton playwright Shelagh Delaney was launched at Salford Museum and Art Gallery last night.

Shelagh Delaney was born in Broughton in 1938. She is best know for her debut work, the play ‘A Taste of Honey’, written when she was just 19.

As well as readings by Selina Todd herself, the event also featured performances from the MaD Theatre Company as cast members performed selected scenes from A Taste of Honey.

What an incredible woman and wonderful piece of research passion and truths , a must read! Congratulations @selina_todd and very lovely to finally meet you. @SalfordMuseum #TastesOfHoney #ShelaghDelaney pic.twitter.com/jx6WrO09Qv

— LouiseWoodwardStyles (@MrsLouiseWS) September 12, 2019

Rob Lees, the director of MaD Theatre Company, said:

“we’re privileged to have been asked to take part and perform, Shelagh Delaney has been a massive influence on the work we do.

“She’s working class…basically trying to push boundaries in getting our voices heard in an artistic way.”

Shelagh Delaney was born in Broughton in 1938. She is best know for her debut work, the play ‘A Taste of Honey’, written when she was just 19.

The play, set in Salford, achieved critical acclaim after debuting in London in May 1958. It then went on to play the West End and Broadway.

Lovely evening with @LibbyHall01 @SalfordMuseum for @selina_todd book launch Tastes of Honey the making of Shelagh Delaney and a Cultural revolution wonderful performances from @madtheatreco & @VanMariaMusic pic.twitter.com/Z2xURzLJ3x

— Roni Ellis (@RoniEllisActor) September 12, 2019

There was also a round table discussion, hosted by Selina Todd, which explored how modern artists have been inspired by Shelagh Delaney. The discussion also featured Jenna Omeltschenko, Vanessa Maria (Musician), Rob Lees, and DJ Lippy.

Jenna Omeltschenko, Touring Partnerships Manager, on the National Theatre’s new production of A Taste of Honey which opens tonight at the Lowry Theatre, said:

“It’s a bit of a blessing really, a joy to bring this incredible piece of work back to Salford, especially at a time when it feels so beautifully relevant.

“people forget that it opened in London, and then transferred to the west end. Bringing the play back and having it at the Lowry, such a beautiful space, it’s just great to have the connection”