A Bear Pit Theatre Company Production
Directed by Nicky Cox
The Welkin, by Lucy Kirkwood, is a powerful and thought-provoking drama set in rural Suffolk in 1759. The play centres on the trial of Sally Poppy, a young woman accused of a gruesome murder. Sally’s fate rests in the hands of twelve women. The women are called upon as a jury to decide whether she is pregnant. If true, would spare her from execution.
These women, who come from various walks of life, deliberate Sally’s case but they reveal their own secrets, prejudices, and struggles. The play explores themes of justice, womanhood, and the complexities of truth. With its richly drawn characters and intense moral dilemmas, “The Welkin” by Lucy Kirkwood shines a light on the harsh realities of life for women in the 18th century and resonates with contemporary issues of gender and power. The gripping narrative and emotional depth make it a compelling and impactful piece of theatre.
The Director, Nicky Cox’s first connection with The Bear Pit was performing in The Vicar of Dibley and A Christmas Carol (2013). This led to directing a number of productions including; The Hound of the Baskervilles, Brief Encounter, Toad of Toad Hall, One Man Two Guv’nors, The 39 Steps, The Norman Conquests Trilogy.
Nicky directed The Bear Pit company actors as part of the RSC production “A Midsummer Nights Dream – A Play for the Nation” in 2016
Content Warning and Age Rating (18+)
The Age Rating for this show is indicated at 18+ due to strong adult language, addresses adult content and graphic violence
Content and Accessibility Warnings
Abuse, Violence, Blood, Death/Dying, Child Death, Threat/Horror, Pregnancy/Childbirth, Miscarriages/Abortion, Sexism/Misogyny, Strong Language, Descriptions of Hanging, Sudden/Loud Noises. Mention of Sexual Assault, Child Abuse, Animal Cruelty/Animal Death
Cast
The Accused – Sally Poppy, the murderer – Kumari Venn
The Jury of Matrons
Elizabeth (Lizzy) Luke, the midwife – Lily Skinner
Judith Brewer – Angela Minto
Charlotte Cary – Zoe Mortimer
Kitty Givens – Amanda Anderson
Helen Ludow – Vicki Jamieson
Sarah Hollis – Lynn Taylor
Emma Jenkins – Carol Roache
Ann Lavender – Holly Gorne
Mary Middleton – Natalie Kaminski
Hannah Rusted – Sammy Horton
Sarah Smith – Pamela Hickson
Peg Carter – Imogen Clarke
Also
Mr Coombes, the bailiff – Chris Dobson
Frederick Poppy, the husband – TBA
Mr Willis, the doctor – Richard Sandle-Keynes
The Justice – Steve Bizley
This amateur production of “The Welkin” is by arrangement with Nick Hern Books
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