Based on the trials of Captain Rackham and his pirate crew in Jamaica in 1720, history meets myth in this story of the remarkable, cross-dressing women pirates Anne Bonny and Mary Read, and their fateful encounter with the infamous Jack Rackham, also known as Calico Jack. 

Bonny & Read depicts the circumstances that led these two women to disguise themselves as men, go out to sea, and join the notoriously male-dominated world of piracy.  This epic voyage of twists and turns is a story of exceptional female bravery, adventure, and survival against all odds.

Bonny & Read is a new musical play by Claire Novello, with music composed by Frederick Appleby, and directed by award-winning director Kenneth Michaels.

“If you love pirates, musical theatre, female empowerment and standing up for something you believe in, Bonny and Read had all this, as well as excitement, adventure and more.” Sascha Cooper, Broadway Baby ★★★★
Brighton Open Air Theatre, BOAT Brighton Fringe 2022

If you love pirates, musical theatre, female empowerment and standing up for something you believe in, Bonny and Read had all this, as well as excitement, adventure and more.

Sascha Cooper, Broadway Baby ★★★★
Brighton Open Air Theatre, BOAT Brighton Fringe 2022

It works well, has a clever set designed by Victoria Maytom and Director Kenneth Michaels keeps the action moving briskly along.

William Russell, ReviewsGate

 This is an entertaining show with strong direction, acting, and gorgeous set…

 Sian Rowland, London Pub Theatres, 28 Nov, 2021

Frederick Appleby’s compositions are lively with the arrangements a delightful embellishment to the keyboard and wonderfully rendered by a flautist and clarinetist.

Director Kenneth Michaels commands a roisteringly good ship.

Hopefully, this rollickingly fun show will continue to be seen and, even if Bonny and Read’s stories remain something of a mystery, they will not remain in obscurity.

Sandra Georgetti, 2021 British Theatre Guide, 4 Dec 2021