After the Act

★★★★
‘Fizzing, fiery… This musical feels exceptional’
Guardian

A new 1980s-inspired musical about pride, protest…and abseiling lesbians.

Thatcher’s Section 28, which banned the “promotion” of homosexuality in schools, was the landmark legislation that silenced a generation, offered a global blueprint for LGBTQ+ oppression and galvanised a community. After the Act is funny, camp and unapologetically queer but also a clear-eyed exposure of the political playbook used to enact repressive laws.

Its joyously exuberant original live score accompanies the inspiring, sometimes heart-breaking, stories of teachers, students and activists impacted by the legislation.

This is the story of how a moral panic gripped a nation - and a generation decided to fight back. 

★★★★
‘Empowering and gut-wrenching... full of righteous anger and euphoric 80s synths’
Telegraph

★★★★
‘Heart-rending yet joyful... brilliantly conveys the hysteria and outrage of Section 28’
The Stage

A Breach production commissioned by New Diorama. Co-produced by Brighton Festival, HOME, New Diorama and Warwick Arts Centre. Developed with the support of the National Theatre's Generate programme. Supported using public funding by Arts Council England.