Witchfinder began its life in 2013 as The Witchfinder Project: combining the ideas of three Suffolk artists; composer Amy Mallett, choreographer Sarah Alexander, and graphic novelist Emile Warnes (images by Emile can be seen below).
The show, supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England, was devised in a series of community workshops and performed in historical venue Ipswich Town Hall . Professional artists worked alongside aspiring performers from the local Suffolk community, including dance, music and performing arts students from UCS, One College, Suffolk New College, Northgate and Farlingaye High Schools.
A series of immersive performances in July 2013 invited audience members to promenade through the rooms and corridors of the Ipswich Town Hall buildings to meet Matthew Hopkins and witness his incredible witch-finding powers in action. Live musicians, improvised drama, dance and projected film images were combined in an intense atmosphere in which the audience found themselves part of the drama.
The music and lyrics were amazing and very moving. Great to see all ages involved locally. Particularly enjoyed the audience being so close up to the cast….. thoroughly enjoyed it… so much went twice!
Audience member