Havisham

written and performed by Heather Alexander

directed by Dominique Gerrard

presented by Emul8 Theatre

 

‘If you knew my story, your heart would break too. A cobwebbed tale of heartbreak’

This is the story that Dickens left out….

1825. A young woman, newly liberated from the deep-rooted effects of an abusive childhood, arrives in London. She is full of hope and ready to embrace a fresh start.  However, she soon finds herself as ‘the leading lady in drama she can’t comprehend.’ The gaslighting is subtle, the manipulation slick. Can Miss Havisham discern her fate? Or is she destined to relive the devastation of her trauma?

Havisham offers a fresh perspective of Charles Dickens’ greatest work of Gothic characterisation – Miss Havisham from Great Expectations. Miss Havisham is the embodiment of stuck trauma and malignant rage. But how did she arrive at this place and what are the tragic secrets of her calamitous past…?

Emul8 Theatre Company challenges boundaries, seeking to engage the audience in a dialogue around themes of justice, female empowerment, and freedom of expression. They develop fresh ideas and perspectives, offering new writing around current issues, concerns and controversies. They also dramatise and adapt existing iconic texts, making them accessible and relevant to a contemporary audience. Emul8 seeks to interrogate prejudices and stereotypical representations through thought-provoking and innovative text and staging.

 

Press for this production

‘Gorgeously written and packed with haunting imagery’ The Stage ★★★★

‘This is a beautifully crafted piece of theatre, whether you are a fan of Dickens or not. The story stands strong alone… a cobwebbed tale of heartbreak’ WEBF ★★★★★

‘Heather Alexander expertly mines the horror beneath Dickens’ most Gothic character.’ The RECS ★★★★★

‘As ever with Alexander, this is a masterclass in acting.’ Fringe Review

‘a breathtaking sight to behold on stage… Powerful, tense, heart-breaking.’ Broadway Baby ★★★★★

Performed by Award Winner HEATHER ALEXANDER – Best Female Actor

Havisham

Written by Heather Alexander

Direction and Dramaturgy: Dominique Gerrard

Presented by Emul8 Theatre

Heather Alexander

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