Yesterday, When I Was Young

Coming of age in the days when the word ‘lesbian’ wasn’t even known and getting married was simply what you did, Josie Pickering left her husband, moved in with her girlfriend, and became a professional dominatrix. Rather than aiming for sensationalism, this one-woman show sees Erin Shanagher telling the story in Josie’s own words – and she excels at it.

With only a Mancunian accent, regular costume changes and a little music to set the scene, Shanagher manages to bring to life the red-brick terraces and Canal Street bars. She addresses the audience conversationally, sharing anecdotes from her life which not only reveal her audacious nature and her punters’ quirks, but also her struggles, her losses, and the tenderness to be found in the most unexpected settings.

Her reminiscences of the old-school gay scene – where women were firmly divided into butch and femme camps – and her insights into one particular sector of the sex industry together form a valuable oral history which Shanagher has expertly brought to life. Above all, this is an entertaining and affectionate tribute to a fascinating lady.