Hurst College sixth former, Phoebe Perry, has embarked on an extraordinary creative adventure. Not only has she written an original musical about the Suffragettes, but she also has her sights set on performing it at the world-renowned Edinburgh Fringe next summer.

Phoebe has shared her excitement with the Foundation, saying:

"The Edinburgh Fringe is a dream for any aspiring artist. It’s a chance to share my work with a diverse audience and gain invaluable experience in the performing arts world. I’m so grateful for the encouragement I’ve received from my teachers and friends at Hurst. Now, I’m hoping the alumni community can help me take the next step."

The initial production featured a talented cast of 18 students aged 13 to 17, who rehearsed tirelessly over four weeks. Their efforts paid off with two performances that received standing ovations and left audiences inspired. But for Phoebe, this was just the beginning.

As part of her gap year, Phoebe plans to expand VOTE into a full-length West End-style musical with 17 original songs. The next chapter of her journey? Taking VOTE to the world’s biggest arts festival — the Edinburgh Fringe — in August 2025.

Set against the backdrop of the real-life Hyde Park rally of 1908, VOTE follows the journey of Mary Abbott and her friends as they navigate personal and societal challenges to fight for a future where women are seen as equals. Through stirring songs and a gripping narrative, the musical highlights the courage of the Suffragette movement from 1908 with the Hyde Park rally, later known as ‘Woman’s Sunday’,  Mary’s arrest and imprisonment, through to the celebration of the Representation of People’s Act, some 20 years later, when electoral equality was granted to all women over 21.

The Edinburgh Fringe production will feature an all-Hurst OJ cast the ambitious project includes three performances and two weeks of rehearsals. But for this dream to become a reality, Phoebe needs your help.

Phoebe shared her thoughts on the journey so far:

"This show is about celebrating the sacrifices made by those who fought for equality. Taking VOTE to the Fringe is an incredible way to share this message on a larger scale, and I’m so grateful for the support I’ve received from Hurst. Now, I’m hoping our alumni can help bring this dream to life."

Please join us in supporting Phoebe as she represents Hurst College at the Edinburgh Fringe. Follow the link to her GoFundMe page:

https://gofund.me/975f6d4e