Billy Bow

Inspired by a true, if tangled, tale from the Napoleonic War, Billy Bow is about young, black English woman named Mina.

Desperate to escape her murderous husband and captivated by her late father’s stories of the sea, Mina disguises herself as a man, Billy Bow, and joins the wartime British Navy. But she soon discovers the harsh reality of life aboard HMS Cormorant.

Encountering danger, storm and battle, she finds friendship, respect and even love. However, Billy is menaced by another sailor, racist ex-slaver, Miller, who threatens to uncover her secret and get her sent back to the brutal embrace of her husband.

After past musical triumphs, The Dreaming and Honk!, the Curve Young Company‘s performance of Billy Bow features a soaring soundtrack and is a beautiful tale of triumph over cruelty and prejudice.

Running time: 1 hour 40 mins (includes 20 minute interval)

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