Review: Vignettes, Letters to the NHS at Hope Mill Theatre is an ’emotionally charged tribute to the NHS and womanhood’

These six short plays by female playwrights create a space where women can feel truly seen, understood, and celebrated.

Vignettes, a production from HER Productions, offers a unique theatrical experience, presenting six short plays in the span of one evening—the theatre’s version of a Netflix binge!

Day One by Clara Darcy

The night opens powerfully with Day One by Clara Darcy, a piece that immediately grips the audience with a shocking beginning, which continues to be the theme throughout the play.

Erin Riley and Sarah White deliver goosebump-inducing performances as workers in an NHS-led ambulance call centre.

The play explores the emotional toll of the job, capturing both its inspirational highs and heart-wrenching lows.

Dos and Don’ts of the Date by Ifeoma Uzo

By the end, you’re left questioning whether the relentless and daunting work is truly worth the heartache.

Dos and Don’ts of the Date by Ifeoma Uzo offers a refreshingly relatable take on modern dating.

Esther Ugiri and Fejiro Emasiobi give charming and heartfelt performances as two people gradually finding their way back to each other after a serious health issue got in the way.

An exploration of the pitfalls of online dating and the struggles the youth of today face when trying to find a partner in a digital world.

The play ends with a cliffhanger leaving the audience begging to know more.

Unit H6 by Rosa Hesmondhalgh

Unit H6 by Rosa Hesmondhalgh, performed by Louisa May Parker, Maya Dhokia, and Melissa Parker, explores the challenges of forming friendships under the shadow of an “expiry date.”

Despite the looming feelings of fear and isolation, the piece reminds us that love and connection are worth pursuing—even if they’re fleeting.

It’s a weighty subject, lightened by moments of humour and anchored by a moving final scene that celebrates the importance of friendship.

Born/Borne is by Alicia Forde

Born/Borne is by Alicia Forde, and performed by Nicola Gardner and Lydia Hasoon.

We follow a former immigrant welcoming a refugee and her daughter to the UK, the play offers a powerful reflection on the importance of respect and kindness while also portraying the stark contrast between immigration and refugeeism, with insights into welcomed immigration post-world war two, comparing that with the political debates that continue today. The ability to portray the failings of the government from the windrush scheme while also depicting the plight of refugees in the UK today is profound.

Ultimately, the message is human nature and the willingness to help despite facing racism, discrimination, and aggression can overcome all barriers. Deeply emotional and strikingly relevant in today’s world, it leaves a lasting impression.

A Womb With A View by Maisy Whipp

A Womb With A View by Maisy Whipp delves into the frustrating reality many women face when navigating the healthcare system.

Through a candid conversation between a couple considering parenthood, this play highlights the confusion and contradictions often encountered when seeking medical advice—especially as a larger woman with health concerns like “dodgy ovaries.” It captures the emotional toll of being prescribed the pill to manage severe periods, only to later face barriers to fertility and medication restrictions during pregnancy. Honest, sharp, and deeply resonant, the piece voices a struggle which is too often dismissed.

You’re So Brave by Alex Keelan

Closing the evening is You’re So Brave by Alex Keelan, a deeply moving piece that leaves many in the audience in tears.

Performed with raw honesty by Erin Shan and Rachael McGuinness, the play portrays the exhausting battle with cancer and the toll it takes—not just physically, but emotionally.

The play also delves into the pitfalls of social media and the unwarranted advice of others who think they can cure all ills because they watched a tik tok! Yet, amidst the struggle and conflicting information it is ultimately the kindness of others that offers strength, love, and a reason to keep going. A poignant and powerful ending to the night.

Altogether, Vignettes is more than just a showcase of short plays—it is a testament to the power of women’s voices in theatre.

Each piece offers something distinct, yet together they form a cohesive, emotionally charged journey through love, loss, resilience, and connection.

The production balances moments of heartbreak with humour and hope. Vignettes – Letters to the NHS is an emotionally stimulating evening that deserves to be seen, discussed and remembered, long after the final bow.

Tickets for Vignettes – Letters to the NHS runs at the Hope Mill Theatre

Vignettes – Letters to the NHS runs at the Hope Mill Theatre until 4th May and tickets can be booked here.