A theatre show set in the heart of the 1920s is coming to Weston-super-Mare this month.

Stowaway Theatre, a female-led actor-musician theatre company, debuts 40 Elephants, inspired by the real-life exploits of Britain's first female crime syndicate.

Alice Diamond, the former leader of the 40 Elephants, steps out of prison, ready to narrate a tale of glamour, violence, and feisty female gangs.

The audience will witness the rules, raids, consequences, and betrayals these women born into poverty experience as they strive to escape their circumstances.

Lizi Bennett, company founder and alumni of Rose Bruford College and Exeter University, conceived the concept for 40 Elephants while researching for her dissertation.

She said: "Although they were criminals and at times incredibly unpleasant, I really do think theirs is a story that should be celebrated; The 40 Elephant Gang was hugely successful – running from pre 1900s well into the 1950/60s, a massive achievement for young working-class women in an era where career options were extremely scarce."

Weston Mercury: Stowaway Theatre, a female-led actor-musician theatre company, debuts 40 Elephants

The narrative of '40 Elephants' unfolds in a 1920s music hall, detailing gripping tales of Alice Diamond and her second-in-command, Maggie Hughes.

With a prosperous start as part of the Exeter Northcott Artist Futures programme in 2022, Stowaway Theatre has been able to develop '40 Elephants' ambitiously, thanks to Arts Council England's support.

Welcoming reactions from viewers include feedback such as 'Explosive, Powerful and Impactful' and 'Vibrant, intriguing, and kick-ass - loved it!'

The show is scheduled to take place on Thursday, February 29 at the Front Room at 7.30pm.

Other shows include Exeter's Barnfield Theatre between February 22-24 and Seaton's Gateway Theatre on March 1.

Tickets for the Weston show are available online via frontroomwsm.com.