A Middle Child Short

When they were fifteen, Ash made Jess a promise she'd never imagined she'd have to keep. Fifteen years later, life looks very different. Ash is navigating the beautiful chaos of motherhood, while Jess is ready to ask the question that could change both of their lives forever.

Funny, heartfelt and full of honesty, this new play explores friendship, family, the promises we make when we're young, and what happens when they come back to find us.

Lydia Marchant

Lydia Marchant is a Hull-born writer for stage, screen and audio. Her debut play Mumsy was produced by Hull Truck Theatre in 2023. She is currently under commission at Hull Truck, developing No Balls, about women’s health and Sunday league football.  

She also regularly writes episodes of EastEnders and has written multiple episodes of Spotlight award-winning podcast British Scandal, presented by Matt Forde and Alice Levine.  

Middle Child Shorts

Middle Child Shorts is a brand-new series of 30-minute plays by Zia Ahmed, Tom Wells, Lydia Marchant and Kelly Jones. 

Every week we present a new play with two actors, one set and no interval. Just brilliant storytelling in the time it takes to drink a coffee, eat your lunch or enjoy a quick pint after work. 

Inspired by the creativity and energy of Fresh Ink: Hull Playwriting Festival, these bite-sized productions are designed to be affordable, welcoming and easy to fit into your day. 

Whether you're a regular theatregoer or trying live theatre for the first time, Middle Child Shorts will showcase brilliant new writing in the heart of Hull. 

Post-Show Q&A

Stick around after the 6.00pm performance on Friday 25 September for a short Q&A with writer Lydia Marchant, hosted by Middle Child literary manager Matthew May.

Relaxed Performance

The 10.00am performance on Sunday 27 September is a relaxed performance. The house lights will be up and noise and movement from the audience is welcome.

For more details about the venue and this performance, visit the Middle Child website.