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A theatre performance telling the story of chartist Mary Frost – who played a key role in the 1839 Newport Rising – is coming to Blackwood Miners’ Institute this summer.

Pianoforte, by Newport-based Her Story Theatre Company, is touring south Wales, and will be in Blackwood on June 3.

Frost was the wife of Newport chartist leader John Frost, and the play explores her central yet long‑overlooked role in the 1839 Newport Rising. 

It follows her journey from devoted wife and mother to a quietly radical woman whose belief in fairness and equality mirrored the very ideals of Chartism.

Original music composed by Helen Woods weaves throughout the drama, underscoring moments of hope, grief, and triumph. 

“Mary Frost’s story is one of resilience, justice, and love,” said playwright Adele Cordner. “She lived through enormous political upheaval and personal sacrifice, yet history has all but erased her name. 

“This play is our way of restoring her voice and honouring the many women who fuelled change from behind closed doors. Mary loved playing the piano, which inspired the title Pianoforte as a tribute to her quiet strength.” 

Visit the Her Story Theatre Company website for more information.

Full Tour Dates

• Congress Theatre, Cwmbran, April 24;
• The Drill Hall, Chepstow, April 25;
• The Paget Rooms, Penarth, April 30;
• The Blake Theatre, Monmouth, May 21;
• The Memorial Hall, Usk, May 23;
• Blackwood Miners Institute, Blackwood, June 3;
• Horfield Parish Church Hall, Bristol, June 6;
• The Riverfront Theatre, Newport, June 11.