The John Godber Company Open New Play “Jesse North Is Broken” at York Theatre Royal

This May, York Theatre Royal welcome the John Godber Company back to the Studio with a world premiere performance of new play Jesse North Is Broken. Written and performed by Martha Godber, this new work will be directed by Millie Gaston.

Jesse is 25, from Hull. A carer on minimum wage, keeping the elderly alive while trying to live her own messy, chaotic life. Told over one night, we follow her from care shift to the dance floor, from the late-night kebab to an early morning call-out as she battles the system that undervalues her and the city that shapes her, all while her ADHD-fuelled thoughts and anxious mind crave order in the chaos.

Both political and personal, the show shines a light on working-class survival in Britain today – where carers are underpaid, the care system is crumbling, and young women are left to piece themselves together in a society that keeps breaking them.

Martha Godber said, “I’m thrilled to be bringing Jesse North Is Broken to York Theatre Royal, it feels like the perfect venue to premiere the show. As someone from Hull, I’ve always been drawn to telling northern stories, and this piece does exactly that. I’m passionate about creating female characters who are unapologetic, bold and command the stage, celebrating the northern female voice in all its complexity.

At its heart, the show explores connection, pain, love and loss, set against the realities of government policy, the care system and the social pressures of a working-class town. It’s a fearless piece of new writing and I hope it resonates deeply with contemporary audiences.”

Tickets are on sale now via yorktheatreroyal.co.uk and at Box Office (01904 623568).

For further information and to book press tickets for the Mon 11 May performance please contact Amy and Chloe on press@yorktheatreroyal.co.uk.

Listings Info

Jesse North Is Broken
YORK THEATRE ROYAL, STUDIO

• Mon 11 May, 7.45pm
• Tue 12 May, 7.45pm
• Wed 13 May, 7.45pm (includes a post-show discussion)
• Thu 14 May, 2.30pm & 7.45pm

Age guidance: 15+
Content guidance: Includes strong language and sexual references