Oh Mary at the Tobacco Factory Bristol
Co-directed by Simon Harvey (Kneehigh) and Bec Applebee, Oh Mary takes centre stage at the Tobacco Factory in Bristol. This physical theatre show brings to life the incredible true story of Mary Bryant, a woman who experiences conviction, motherhood, love and loss in an epic journey from Cornwall to Australia.
Mary was born in Cornwall in 1765, and after stealing a bonnet, is arrested and found guilty of violent highway robbery. Her punishment is exile to Botany Bay, Australia. During her long journey, Mary faces violence and abuse, gives birth on the boat and then marries William Bryant. She has two other children, before attempting a desperate escape. She finally loses all the people she loved, but survives to find redemption.
Bec Applebee, known for her work with Kneehigh, Wildworks and Dalla theatre companies, doesn’t play Mary; she is Mary. She is so intense, passionate, and credible there is no need for other actors. She transform a mop into Mary’s husband, and when Mary dances with him the spectator sees him. When Mary gives birth, the labour pain and tenderness are palpable.
Oh Mary is an epic experience and the audience is swept away by this brave journey of physical and emotional storytelling. Catch it if you can.