Rope Women: Female pioneers in aerial circus

Join us for an exclusive lecture and private viewing celebrating Rope Women. This exhibition honours the ground-breaking contribution of Skinning the Cat to aerial performance and the vital role of women in circus. From 1988 to 2003, this radical, all-female troupe from Bradford stood at the vanguard of Britain's contemporary circus movement.

The company was forged in a unique cultural landscape. In the 1960s and 70s, Bradford was at the forefront of an international political and creative movement deeply linked with peace activism, women's liberation, gay rights, and anti-racism. This awakening of social consciousness, paired with the artistic openness of the era, provided the ideal environment for a new, radical form of performance to take root. 

The Exhibition

Rope Women follows the journey of Skinning the Cat through the eyes of its founder and artistic director, Rebecca Truman. Exploring the lived female experience of the athletic performer and entrepreneur, the exhibition showcases the passion, creativity, and endurance required to succeed in professional circus, as well as the journey that follows retiring from the limelight.

At its core, Rope Women champions fair representation and the full recognition of women’s contributions to history and society. This story is brought to life through Rebecca Truman’s original costumes, sculptures, and poetry, reflecting how her aerial career continued to inform her work as a visual artist and writer.

Co-curated by the National Fairground and Circus Archive and Rebecca Truman, this special event features an opening lecture by Professor Vanessa Toulmin.

Programme

• 4.15pm to 4.30pm: Registration
• 4.30pm to 5.00pm: Lecture by Professor Vanessa Toulmin
• 5.00pm to 5.15pm: Audience Q&A
• 5.15pm to 6.30pm: Private viewing of the exhibition (Refreshments served)

Book your place

Please note that  photographers and videographers may be capturing content at this event. These images and recordings may be used by the University of Sheffield for future promotional purposes, including digital and print publications.

By attending this event, you are consenting to the use of your image for these purposes. If you or your guests wish to opt-out, please notify the organiser.