One murderer, 12 women, one decision; The Welkin is the latest play to be performed at Northwich’s Harlequin Theatre, promising a show filled with tension, surprises, and a few laughs along the way.

From June 7-10, the Queen Street theatre’s stage will be transformed into a courtroom in rural Suffolk, 1759, as a group of women are tasked with judging if a murderer is telling the truth about being pregnant.

The Welkin is written by British playwright Lucy Kirkwood, and this Northwich production is directed by Yvette Owen.

A description of the play reads: “As the country waits for Halley’s Comet, Sally Poppy is sentenced to hang for a heinous murder.

Northwich Guardian:

“When she claims to be pregnant, a jury of twelve matrons are taken from their housework to decide whether she's telling the truth, or simply trying to escape the noose.

“With only midwife Lizzy Luke prepared to defend the girl, and a mob baying for blood outside, the matrons wrestle with their new authority, and the devil in their midst.”

The Welkin first premiered at the National Theatre, London, in 2020, and has been described as, ‘a beautifully weird horror story’, ‘mesmerising and intriguing’, and ’12 Angry Men meets The Crucible, but funny’.

Director Yvette added: “Why should you come and see it? Because nothing is as good as watching live theatre performed by talented actors.

“The story is funny, gripping, brutal, and moving, and it’s not just a play for women.”

Northwich Guardian:

To book tickets, visit ticketsource.co.uk/harlequintheatre

Shows will start at 7.45pm between Wednesday, June 7, and Saturday, June 10.

All seating is tiered, and the theatre also has a bar for refreshments before the show and during the interval.

The production is suitable for ages 12 and above; please be aware there is strong language throughout.

You can find more information by searching for The Welkin at Harlequin Theatre on Facebook or visiting the Harlequin Theatre website.