Peelers, Poachers & Paupers

A tale of resistance, survival and defiance in Victorian Yorkshire

Experience an unmissable theatrical journey across Ripon’s historic museums. Ripon Workhouse Theatre Ensemble and Fell Foss Theatre join forces to present a brand-new production staged across all three sites: the Workhouse Museum, the Police and Prison Museum, and the Courthouse.

Step into the gripping true story of Elisha and John Sinkler, Yorkshire brothers born into a gamekeeping family who turned to poaching and paid the ultimate price. Follow their journey across the moors of Nidderdale, their clashes with the law, and their brutal punishment: transportation to Australia. Witness their desperate fight to return home not once, but twice.

This powerful performance also brings to light the struggles of those left behind the women who endured hardship and a fight for survival in their absence. This immersive promenade theatre experience breathes life into the forgotten voices of 19th-century Yorkshire.

Don’t miss this extraordinary story told in extraordinary spaces.

Due to the nature of the venues, ticketing will be used to manage numbers at each stage of the story.

All ticket purchasers end up at the Workhouse Museum for refreshments after the show.

• 1.30-4.30pm – Rotation #1 – Police & Prison Museum, Courthouse, Workhouse Museum Book Now
• 2-4.30pm – Rotation #2 –  Courthouse, Police & Prison, Workhouse Museum Book Now
• 5-8pm – Rotation #3 – Police & Prison Museum, Courthouse, Workhouse Museum Book Now
• 5.30-8pm – Rotation #4 – Police & Prison Museum, Courthouse, Workhouse Museum Book Now

Age guide 10+