A remarkable story of the Lancashire pensioner who helped pave the way for Nelson Mandela and the liberation of South Africa comes to the Theatre By The Lake.

Forgotten Voices, in Keswick October 7, tells the true story of Eva Moorhead Kadalie, the widow of South Africa’s first national black trade union leader, Clements Kadalie.

For over three decades, the couple fought for freedom, before Eva was forced to flee to England.

The true story has been described by Dean of Manchester Cathedral Rogers Govender as: “A truly inspiring tale of the South African Struggle.”

Staged as part of Black History Month, this event tells the powerful account of a woman at the forefront of challenging South Africa’s racist policies.

Black History Month offers the chance to share, celebrate and understand Black heritage and culture, and uncover those stories which have so often been overlooked or ignored.

Written by Eva’s grandson David Moorhead, the one-woman theatre show stars Shareesa Valentine as Eva.

Valentine has been nominated for a best actress award for this role by the Black British Theatre Awards with the ceremony at the National next month.

Writer and Eva’s Grandson, David said: “My grandmother was glamorous and warm-hearted but beneath lay a complex person, whose struggles were great.

“Her political contribution in terms of support and sacrifice were immense but completely ignored.

“I felt it was time to hear and celebrate the story of Eva Moorhead Kadalie. I am so proud of my dual heritage. She was a woman who refused to give up and I am delighted to be her grandson.”

Forgotten Voices, directed by Margaret Connell, is set in 1956 following the death of Eva’s husband.

Eva is contemplating leaving South Africa following their thirty-year fight against racism.

Reflecting on her life and the sacrifices that both she and her husband made, Eva is unsure if she should board the boat to England.

Spanning a turbulent time in South African history, the play reflects on the experiences of the 1919 dock strike at Cape Town; the creation and growth of the Industrial and Commercial Union, and the passing of the 1927 Native Administration Act, which made it illegal to challenge white rule.

Always ready to stand up and challenge white privilege and racial injustice, Eva was a strong, resilient woman and way ahead of her time. Prepare to be entertained, educated and inspired.

It was featured in the current Educate magazine.

Up until now, Eva’s story has been forgotten by history, which is so often the fate of women and especially those of colour.

Forgotten Voices offers the perfect opportunity to reflect on Eva Moorhead Kadalie’s life, the struggles and the joy, and her fight for freedom.

The Theatre By The Lake performance is part of the tour with shows in Birmingham, Manchester, London, Cambridge, Prescot and Chester.

Tickets can be booked through the Theatre By The Lake website www.theatrebythelake.com