The Welkin at The Bear Pit

Kumari Venn as Sally Poppy. Photo by Chris J Clarke Photography.

The Welkin by Lucy Kirkwood, at The Bear Pit Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, from 19 – 27 September. Directed by Nicky Cox.

Preview

Rehearsals are well underway with The Bear Pit Theatre Company’s production of The Welkin, by Lucy Kirkwood and directed by Nicky Cox. This powerful and thought-provoking drama set in rural Suffolk in 1759 centres on the trial of Sally Poppy played by Kumari Venn, 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, this would spare her from execution.

Lily Skinner as Elizabeth Luke. Photo by Chris J Clarke Photography.

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.

Zoe Mortimer as Charlotte Cary. Photo by Chris J Clarke Photography.

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 Night’s Dream – A Play for the Nation’ in 2016.

For tickets contact the ticket hotline: 0333 666 3366 or  go to: https://www.thebearpit.org.uk/whats-on/the-welkin-by-lucy-kirkwood/