Sisterhood

Abstract

This chapter investigates the professional networks that were a vital part of the formation and success of the Actresses' Franchise League, and campaigning and sociality within the theatrical profession and the suffrage movement. The contribution of male suffragist supporters is considered in this chapter, as are suffrage plays that tackle social and political issues around low paid work, working conditions and prostitution. Representations of the sisterhood of suffrage campaigners in suffrage plays are examined, along with the role of the League in the Census Boycott of 1911, the work of suffragist actresses in variety and the links between theatre professionals in the British and American suffrage campaigns.