The talk at Ilkley Manor House will celebrate past pioneers and today’s changemakers.
An engaging new interactive talk, Brilliant Bradford Lasses, will take place this Friday 6 March 2026, 5–6:30pm, marking International Women’s Day by shining a light on extraordinary women and girls connected to Bradford from the 19th century to the present day.
Audience members can expect a lively session that blends history, performance and participation.
The event opens with a fun introductory game before Mrs Norton - portrayed by Irene Lofthouse in full suffragette character - leads the audience through a rich mix of hidden stories, forgotten names and modern-day “Brilliant Bradford Lasses”.
From writers, explorers and sportswomen to nurses, poets, trade unionists and a university chancellor, the talk spotlights women who achieved “firsts” in their field - from the well-known to the overlooked, right up to contemporary figures making change today. The session also invites the audience to nominate their own Brilliant Bradford Lass, creating a shared celebration of women’s achievements across generations.
Tickets for the event are £12.50 available from TicketTailor. Limited tickets may be available on the door, subject to availability.

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