The New Theatre has finished the year on a high note with Louise Fischer’s production of Beth Flintoff’s THE BALLAD OF MARIA MARTIN.
Flintoff’s play is a work of historical fiction and turns on the notorious ‘Red Barn Murder’ of 1827 which entered the annals of British folklore and generated a lot of gossip and speculation.
A young woman, Maria Marten, goes to a barn in Suffolk to meet her lover, with plans to elope. A year late her body is found.
What was the truth behind her murder? Why was she killed? Who was responsible?
Flintoff’s play is a feminist take on the ‘Red Barn Murder’ with the men in her life turning out to be nothing but trouble whilst her female friends are supportive, kind and, at times, plenty of fun.
As well as the ever present issue of men’s violence towards women, the play also looks at how the class structures in Britain, at the time, inhibited people like Mary from achieving more in her life.
Flintoff’s play, impressively, does not portray Mary as a victim but as a strong, ebullient spirit nourished by her female friends.
The New Theatre’s long time Artistic Director Louise Fischer helms a stellar production. The performances are first rate led by Naomi Belet as Maria Martin. There was a genuine feeling of warmth and intimacy emanating from the stage.
The show features great work by Fischer’s creative team. How is this for credentials; Set designer Tom Bannerman has designed some 287 sets (I think that the late Tony Youlden is the only set designer who has topped this) and the current set is his 78th set for the New Theatre!
Lighting and sound designer Michael Schell has worked on 300 productions and prefers to work with fringe rather than mainstream companies.
This show is well worth a visit. The New Theatre is offering a two for one ticket deal for the performances on Friday 1 December, Saturday 2 December and Sunday 3 December 2023. Use Promo Code FIRE.
The New Theatre’s production of Beth F lintoff’s THE BALLAD OF MARIA MARTEN is playing the New Theatre 542 King Street Newtown until the 16th December 2023.
Production photography by the mercurial, brilliant veteran theatre photographer Bob Seary