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A sixteenth century witch trial is reimagined in a new digital work or film ‘The Ockendon Witch’ premiering on YouTube at 8pm Tuesday 25 August 2020.
The making of this latest piece of lockdown theatre based on a new short play by writer Richard Margrave is supported by Stronger Together Arts, Culture & Heritage Fund in Thurrock, Essex that with small grants has kept over a dozen artistes and theatre makers creating during the pandemic, delivering projects readily accessible to the community in this period of restricted activities.
The premiere includes an interactive digital element where the viewer can vote as to the verdict of the trial.
Richard Margrave, Writer and Executive Producer of The Ockendon Witch, says:
“The trial of Agnes Byllinge from South Ockendon in Essex was real, and potentially deadly, with many women in those times scapegoated and accused of witchcraft.
“The Stronger Together Fund is to be applauded for acting fast in the pandemic to support local artistes with funding to make work and ensure it is accessible digitally to a local community with restricted opportunities for entertainment.
“The actors staged this piece from their own homes and with the witchcraft of editing we are transported back to Tudor Essex.
“The piece brings to life a forgotten story with real parallels with today, delivering drama as well as education with a digital programme and education resource online and an interactive vote at the end.”
