New ballet to celebrate ‘first modern lesbian’

Anne Lister is known for her diaries detailing life at Shibden Hall, with a statue of her sitting in Halifax's Piece Hall

A ballet based on the life of Anne Lister, often descibed as "the first modern lesbian", is set to open in Leeds in 2026.

The Northern Ballet production is inspired by BBC TV show Gentleman Jack, written by Sally Wainwright and starring Suranne Jones.

Lister, born in 1791, is known for her diaries detailing life at Shibden Hall near Halifax, with entries including intimate details of her same-sex relationships.

Wainwright, from Huddersfield, said she was excited to see Lister’s story reach new audiences, with the production set to tour England and later head to Finland.

The writer, who will be a creative consultant on the project, said: “It's so exciting to see Anne Lister's influence and legacy continue to expand.

"What a thrilling opportunity to present Anne Lister to the world in a brand new way."

Anne Lister lived at Shibden Hall near Halifax

It is Northern Ballet’s first large-scale commission since 2021 and the first under artistic director Federico Bonelli.

Bonelli, who said he first became aware of Lister through the BBC drama in 2019, said: “As an organisation our aim is to break down barriers to world class ballet for larger and more diverse audiences.

“The story of someone many call the first modern lesbian is a perspective we rarely see represented through ballet, and with her connection to our home in Yorkshire it feels like a perfect fit.”

• The life and loves of Anne Lister

Composer Claire Cowan said: "It is a rare delight to see a queer female character, let alone a queer female love story based on real life.

“I’m looking forward to learning more about Anne and exploring how all the complexities of her character can be portrayed through music to heighten the impact of the choreography and storytelling."

Gemma Whelan and Suranne Jones starred in the television show written by Sally Wainwright

After opening in Leeds, Gentleman Jack will be performed in Sheffield, Nottingham, Salford, London and Norwich.

In April 2028 it will be presented at the Finnish National Opera and Ballet in Helsinki.

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