Based on novel by H.G. Wells. Music & words by Edward Longstaff.
Role: Set and Costume Designer
The History of Mr Polly, by H. G. Wells, is a witty and bittersweet journey through the life of Alfred Polly, a small-town shopkeeper trapped by the routines and expectations of Edwardian England. As Polly struggles with the monotony of everyday life, his longing for escape leads him towards an unexpected act of rebellion, forcing him to reconsider the life he has built.
A story about conformity, class, marriage and the search for freedom, told through the comic and chaotic journey of an ordinary man determined to find a way out.
A Two-Wheeler Opera Productions production, presented as part of Tête à Tête: The Opera Festival 2026, with a performance on Wednesday 9 September 2026 at 8:30pm at The Cockpit, London.
“Stuart Barker’s production might have had a workshop feel to it … but it was enormously effective, with some moments of real fun.”
— Planet Hugill, September 2026
Composer / Conductor | EDWARD LONGSTAFF
Director | STUART BARKER
Set & Costume Designers | MARIA J. DAMIA PATINO and VALASSIA BARBOUTI
Lighting Designer | ACE MCCARRON
Movement Director | RUTH HOWARD
Assistant Designer | YAGMUR KARABACAK
Accompanist | JOHN LONGSTAFF
Stage Manager | JULIAN JOHNSON
Cast | ROBIN BAILEY, LAURIE SLAVIN, JACK HOLTON, MAYA KUMANA, EMILY MCCARTHY, SOPHIA JIN, ELIZABETH LYNCH and HAILEY WEST
