Turtle Lab presents the Australian Premiere of The Drowning Girls by Canadian playwright Daniela Vlaskalic, directed by Paola Unger.
Based on the infamous “Brides of the Baths” murders in Britain from 1912-1914, this macabre play is a true crime story for the stage. Edwardian bigamist and serial killer George Joseph Smith spent his days hunting down lonely, wealthy women. After courting them he married them before ruthlessly drowning them in their baths and making off with their life insurance policies.
Vlaskalic’s take on the tragedy tells the tale of the last three women who fell in love with him, and investigates the exposure and vulnerability that defines love. Surfacing from their murky graves, the murdered brides rise to gather evidence and present their case against their murderous husband.
Despite happening at the beginning of last century and in another country, these events aren’t unfamiliar to audiences around the world. Domestic violence against women is still a hidden scourge of our communities. A recently released study shows that intimate partner homicides account for one-fifth of all murders in Australia.
Turtle Lab is proud to announce that the opening night of The Drowning Girl is an official White Ribbon Event. White Ribbon works to prevent the most common and pervasive form of male violence – that towards women. White Ribbon believes the prevention of violence against women will change society for the better.
The Drowning Girls by Daniela Vlaskalic
Director: Paola Unger
Cast: Rachael Dyson-McGregor, Zoe Ellerton-Ashley, Eloise Oxer
Costume/ Set Design: Kat Chan
Lighting Design: Lisa Mibus
Sound Design: Chris Wenn
10–26 February, 2012 Northcote Town Hall
Tuesday–Saturday 8pm, Saturday Matinees 2pm Sundays 7pm
Book tickets online at www.northcotetownhall.com.au or via phone on 9481 9500
