East Riding Libraries to partner with Mikron Theatre on new play

East Riding Libraries are partnering with Mikron Theatre to produce a brand-new play centered around their mobile library service.

‘Top of the Wold’ is a unique play bursting with original songs, inviting audiences to join the East Riding Mobile Library in a celebration of community, culture, caravans, and peas.

Audiences will follow the four actor-musicians as the quirky mobile library dives into chapters that teem with the lives of then and now. From Bempton to Bridlington, Hornsea to Howden, the play explores a region barely noticed by the nation it feeds and eroded by the pounding North Sea.

Following extensive research, playwright Maeve Larkin has crafted a production that reflects the voices and experiences of communities across the East Riding. Her research included conversations with local groups, visits to towns and villages, and time spent with the library team.

Larkin joined local mobile library routes to gain a deeper understanding of the diverse communities that make up the county. The play brings together a rich mix of perspectives and themes inspired by these encounters.

This project is part of East Riding Libraries, National Portfolio Organisation (NPO) status funded through Arts Council England. It has been a key project within the NPO and has been in the works since April 2023.

‘Top of the Wold’ will open at Pocklington Arts Centre on Friday, 27 March 2026, with tickets now on sale. The play will then tour nationally across Great Britain.

Councillor Nick Coultish, cabinet member for culture, leisure and tourism at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: “This is a brilliant partnership with a nationally renowned theatre company that will bring the East Riding, and our wonderful mobile library service, to the forefront.

“It’s an interesting and exciting way of exploring our region and will hopefully give our communities the spotlight that they so greatly deserve.”

Marianne McNamara, director of ‘Top of the Wold’, added: “We can’t wait to bring this play to life in 2026 and tell the nation about the wonder of the East Riding.

“So much effort and dedication has gone into this project, it’s going to be amazing to see it all come to fruition.

‘’It’s sure to be a play to remember and we can’t wait to bring it to the communities in this county and beyond!”

Further dates across the East Riding and beyond will be announced in the new year.

To book tickets, visit: Top of the Wold – Pocklington Arts Centre