By Sophie Treadwell
Directed by Sue Wilson

First produced in 1928 on Broadway, with Clark Gable as the lover, Machinal is a powerful expressionist drama about the dependent status of women and the living hell of a loveless marriage. The relationship between Helen and her husband is typical of the time. Confined and regimented to wife, mother, housekeeper and sexual partner, it is no wonder her head is turned by the sudden arrival of a man who offers her a momentary glimpse of passion and solace.
Driven to commit a desperate act in order to free herself from the constraints of society, Helen's life is changed forever...
A powerful and moving drama that provokes discussion and asks the question - isn't it necessary for certain women, at least, to resort to murder when there is no other option or help at hand?

Matinees on Thursdays and Saturdays, 2.30pm (not Thurs 11 June)
Post-show discussion on Thurs 25 June