Enjoy a Taste of Honey at Wakefield Lit Fest

Robert Stephens and Dora Bryan in a still from a Taste of Honey.
(We have permission from Park Circus to use these photos for publicity but on the understanding that any used on-line are low resolution files). — Robert Stephens and Dora Bryan in a still from a Taste of Honey. (We have permission from Park Circus to use these photos for publicity but on the understanding that any used on-line are low resolution files).

A Taste of Honey will to be shown as part of Wakefield Civic Society’s contribution to the event.

The 1961 film will be screened in the Major Hall at Unity Works on Monday, September 21 from 7.30pm.

The film is based on a stage play by British writer Shelagh Delaney and stars Dora Bryan and Robert Stephens with strong supporting roles from Rita Tushingham and Murray Melvin.

The film, directed by Tony Richardson, explores attitudes towards class, race, gender and sexuality against a backdrop of an industrial north.

Kevin Trickett, president of Wakefield Civic Society said: “People often view the past through rose-tinted glasses but films such as this remind us that life could be pretty grim back in the 50s and 60s for people who did not quite fit in. Yes, life could be simpler and, I suppose, “more innocent”, and people were having fun, but find yourself living outside the norms of mainstream society, and life could be a pretty difficult. This film looks at teenage pregnancy, race and homosexuality when society was perhaps more censorious than it is now. “Despite the rather bleak aspect, there are some terrific and moving performances in this film.”

The film was kitchen sink drama genre, which were noted for their realism in how they explored social issues and attitudes of the day.

Tickets cost £6, £4 for concessions. They are available online from wakefieldlitfest.org.uk or in person from Unity Works reception. They will also be available on the door.

Picture courtesy of Park Circus.