14/09/2026
Cleo Sylvestre’s The Marvellous Adventures of Mary Seacole returns to the Rosemary Branch stage after 14 years on 29th October, 7pm
This is a bold reimagining. Actor Daniella Pollendine captures the enduring spirit of Jamaican-born Mary Seacole as a woman ahead of her times - traveller and witness to war who nursed countless British Soldiers in the Crimea.
This one-woman show rekindles Seacole’s journey through memory, identity, and the search for home: a tribute to Black British history reclaimed and remembered.
Adapted, directed and performed by Daniella Pollendine. Co-directors: Sophia Woolfenden and Maria Sousa
**********
Remembering Black Female Pioneers: Sylvestre & Seacole, Sun 18th October @ Hackney Archives
Join us for an inspiring community afternoon celebrating the lives, legacies, and voices of two remarkable Black female pioneers: nurse and healer Mary Seacole, and the trailblazing actor and playwright Cleo Sylvestre.
Ahead of the highly anticipated return of Sylvestre's iconic play to the Rosemary Branch stage, this special pre-show event invites you to connect deeply with history, theatre, and community.
What to Expect:
Open Community Play Reading: Step into the life and times of Mary Seacole through the interpretations of playwright Cleo Sylvestre. Led by actor Daniella Pollendine, we will hold a collective reading of the script for The Marvellous Adventures of Mary Seacole. No acting experience is necessary. Everyone is welcome to read or simply listen.
Exclusive Archive Presentation: Discover history up close. Bristol Theatre Archives and Hackney Archives present a curated selection of rare records detailing Cleo Sylvestre’s fierce campaigning and "artivism" surrounding the recognition of Seacole. Explore Cleo and the Mary Seacole Memorial Statue Appeal's successful campaign. Links to all in bio
Supported by Reel Rebels Radio, Hackney Archives & If Mi Nuh Laugh Mi Cry!