Bradford theatre company Paper Zoo has adapted Charles Dickens’s novel Hard Times for the stage.

The play tells the story of Thomas Gradgrind, a pillar of the community headmaster who teaches the children of Coketown nothing but facts.

Hard Times is the 16th production staged by Paper Zoo, which was formed in 2005 by staff and students from Bradford College.

Cast member Julia O’Keeffe says: “Charles Dickens understood the value of imagination and wonder for everyone, not just children. Without these things we are in danger of producing a generation of young people who are hollowed out, who are not encouraged to think for themselves.”

  • Hard Times will be performed at the New Bradford Playhouse on Wednesday, June 12, Otley Courthouse on Friday, July 5, Queen’s Hall, Burley-in-Wharfedale, on Friday, August 23 and Caroline Street Social Club, Saltaire, on Thursday, September 19.