THE BALLAD OF MARIA MARTEN

by BETH FLINTOFF

14 November – 16 December 2023

AUSTRALIAN PREMIERE

“The battle between good and evil is full of grey areas… but I think he’s firmly on the devil’s side.”

The notorious ‘Red Barn Murder’ of 1827 has entered the annals of British folklore, the subject of prurient gossip and grim speculation.

A young woman, Maria Marten, goes to a barn in Suffolk to meet her lover, with plans to elope. A year later her body is found, hidden under the floor.

What was the truth behind her murder? Why was she killed? And who was responsible?

Her fate is explored through the eyes of Maria and the women who loved her, shedding light on a complex story of love, loss, prejudice and patriarchal power.

Rather than a literal retelling of this historic ‘true crime’, the play is a thrilling feminist reappraisal that focuses on Maria’s life, and celebrates the solidarity of female friendship through story-telling, dance and laughter.

“Flintoff restores dignity to Maria… Unexpectedly joyous” The Guardian

creative team

Director Louise Fischer
Set Designer Tom Bannerman
Lighting Designer Michael Schell
Costume Designer Deborah Mulhall
Videographer Verica Nikolic
Assistant Director Ali Davies

cast

To be announced

dates/times

Preview Tue 14 Nov 7:30pm
Opening Night Wed 15 Nov 7:30pm
Thu – Sat 7:30pm, Sun 2pm
Final performance Sat 16 Dec 2pm

Running time: to be advised

Please note: latecomers will be admitted at a suitable break in the performance

tickets

Full $35
Concessions, Groups (6+) $30
New Theatre Members $25
Thrifty Thursdays $25
Preview $20

An Amateur Production By Arrangement with ORiGiN™ Theatrical, on behalf of RIGHTS HOLDER

BOOK TICKETS

Patrons please note: New Theatre is now EFTPOS-only
at Front of House for both ticket and bar sales.

COVID- Safe protocols:
QR code and vaccination checks are no longer required.
Face masks are not mandatory, but recommended.