Review: Modest by Ellen Brammar

Despite being set in 1874, Modest tells a remarkable true story that is just as relevant to us today. Elizabeth Thompson took the art world by storm by submitting a painting called The Roll Call which stunned everyone – not just because of its brilliance, but because it was painted by a woman. The play follows her journey to break into the male-dominated art world as she tries to become the first woman elected to the Royal Academy.

At the time, the painting was so popular there had to be guards stationed outside to control the crowds. The RA members were astounded by the public's reaction, but insisted it was a one-off success and that she wouldn't be able to replicate such a piece again. When she does, a year later, they sideline her as they don't want the popularity to go to her head. There are some very cleverly written tongue-in-cheek moments when the RA men declare how progressive they are for accepting a painting by a woman in the first place.

The cast is made up of a mixture of genders and sexualities. It includes songs, but there are no scores or details on how these should be performed. Within the script, there are brilliant quips relating to women's rights, which make for an entertaining performance.

The play is told through the lens of several non-binary and trans characters who are trying to find their way in Victorian England, and hope that Elizabeth might pave the way for a more modern future.

Five years later she comes two votes short of being accepted into the RA. It is disheartening to realise that a woman wasn't accepted as a member for another 57 years. A female poet laureate won't be appointed until 2009, after 341 years of the title going to men. This play may be set in the 1800, but in 2023 we still have a long way to go.