Vinegar Tom

Written by Caryl Churchill
Directed by Wes Scully
Performed in Mill Theatre and Bray Festival - January 2009

Witchcraft trials in 17th century

Fresh from his success with 'One for the Road', Wes Scully directed 'Vinegar Tom' by Caryl Churchill. The play was performed in the Mill Theatre Studio from Tue 13 to Sat 17 January 2009. The play is also on in the Mermaid Arts Centre Theatre in Bray at 8pm on Wednesday, 28 January as part of the Bray One Act Festival. Booking to The Mermaid Arts Centre is online at www.mermaidartscentre.ie

The play was written in 1976 by British playwright Caryl Churchill.

The story is centred around the 17th century witchcraft trials in England and explores issues that have a timeless quality, but were particularly relevant to a time when feminism was not only the subject of lively debate, but also enjoyed a higher profile than in the past. Gender issues, the use of power and the control that men have over society are key elements in the play. One of the opening lines (“I'm the devil.”) sets a generalised image of 'man' as the symbol of evil. However, the play also casts a wider societal net over the rejection of people who are perceived to be different.

The title of the play relates to a creature that would have accompanied witches and the story is told not only in words, but also through song and dance. The play is suitable for a mature audience only.

 

The cast members were: Dolores Mulligan, Fiona Walsh, Doris Cullen, Susan Nix, Cathal Kilcline, Aoibhinn Finnegan, Joanne Keane, Fiona Buckley and Ciaran Dwyer.

The play was directed by Wes Scully and produced by Gary Wall. Stage Management was by Orla Murphy and Orla Fitzpatrick.

 

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