The Welkin at the Questor’s Theatre

Ealing Living Magazine

• 3 min read
The Welkin at the Questor’s Theatre

by Gemma McDonald

A new production of The Welkin by Lucy Kirkwood has come to the Questors Theatre in Ealing. The play, which first debuted at the National Theatre in 2020, is a feminist exploration of the inequalities faced by women in the 18th century and the modern day.

The story centres around Sally Poppy, who has been found guilty of murdering the child of Lady Wix. Her innocence is neither addressed nor questioned; instead, the play focuses on Sally “pleading the belly.” Sally’s sole aim is to convince the 12 women on the jury that she is pregnant, thereby sparing her from hanging and securing transportation instead. In Questors’ production, a noose is set upstage, creating a constant, looming presence throughout the performance. Intermittent screams and chants from the street below heighten the tension, reinforcing the sense that Sally is trapped, regardless of the jury’s decision.

This theme of entrapment is further underscored by the play’s refusal to consider whether Sally might not be at fault. It neglects to address mental health issues or illnesses that could have contributed to the child’s death. This omission reflects the attitudes of the time, when psychological issues—especially those affecting women—were often dismissed or labelled as “crazy” or “insane.” The director commented, “There was little recognition of the psychological pressures or mental health issues… unlike today, when there would be a psychiatric evaluation before even going to court.”

However, a significant issue raised repeatedly in the play is society’s limited understanding of women’s bodies. This is highlighted in scenes where the women on the jury debate Sally’s pregnancy, unable to confirm it based on her physical appearance alone. The play illustrates how little was known about women’s health at the time—so little, in fact, that even women themselves were often poorly educated about their own bodies. Tragically, this lack of knowledge remains an issue today, which is why the play continues to resonate with modern audiences.

The Welkin places a strong emphasis on women’s roles in society as mothers, daughters, and wives, which makes it relatable to a contemporary audience. In Questors’ production, this was particularly evident in the opening tableau, where 12 women performed daily tasks in unison, building the atmosphere of the play’s world. This sequence was repeated at the end of the play, but with a modern twist. The shift from 18th-century costumes to modern attire, along with the use of contemporary appliances, effectively transported the audience to the present day. However, the 18th-century backdrop remained, symbolising the ongoing struggle for true gender equality.

This compelling courtroom drama presented significant challenges. Pamela Redrup, the production’s director, stated, “This play demands not only strong performances from the cast but also a balance of tone.” Questors’ production succeeded in achieving this balance, knowing when and where to shift the play’s tone to address serious issues while incorporating moments of levity. The acting was consistently strong, with Kezia Cotterell’s portrayal of Sally Poppy serving as a powerful anchor. Her performance grounded the play’s serious subject matter and provided a clear representation of women’s struggles.

Ultimately, Questors’ production of The Welkin is a thought-provoking exploration of historical and contemporary issues facing women, wrapped in a compelling courtroom drama. By shedding light on the historical limitations placed on women’s bodies, minds, and societal roles, this staging offers an impactful experience that lingers long after the curtain falls.

Upcoming Productions at Questor's: