EMOTIVE performances based on the lives of North-East women will be staged to mark International Women’s Day.

The stories of 162 young women from across the region - and Liverpool - inspired Jumping Puddles, a play from theatre company Open Clasp.

The production, currently touring the North-East, was developed through a series of workshops and draws on the lived experiences of participants.

The play tells the story of two sisters at war and is staged as part of Open Clasp’s mission to give marginalised women a voice and a platform.

Writer and artistic director Catrina McHugh said: “Connecting with audiences around International Women’s Day when women throughout the world come together to celebrate achievements in the fight for equality and freedom from violence is very special.

“I am so proud of this project, of the 162 young women from across the North-East and Liverpool who put their trust in us to tell their stories.”

The play will be staged in Liverpool on International Women’s Day (Sunday, March 8) and will return to the North-East on Tuesday, March 10 when it will be performed at the Bullion Hall in Chester-le-Street.

Jumping Puddles will also be staged at the ARC in Stockton on Thursday, March 12.

For more information, visit openclasp.org.uk.