SLGP and The Society of Wonders are having a reading of the work-in-progress script of their joint project “Consuming Stories” (working title) by Rebecca Mordan at 6pm on Sunday 22nd July at the Viewfinder Gallery, Greenwich.
This rehearsed reading will be accompanied by the sound design of Paul Walker, allowing us to explore the role of sound in telling the story of the piece.
Viewfinder Photography Gallery
Linear House
Peyton Place
Greenwich
London SE10 8RS
www.viewfinder.org.uk
Synopsis
Under permanent house arrest, surrounded by scandalous accusations of blood and perversion, the Countess Bathory is told stories by the one servant remaining to her. The boredom that threatens the sanity of both women is in part staved off by the tales that are brought to life before the Countess in the single tower room. The only other change in the monotonous existence of the Lady and her retainer is the occasional visit from the man who first accused and then incarcerated Bathory - her son-in-law and the inheritor of her lands since her trial.
The stories told all reflect the questions that hang over Bathory and the nature of her suspected crimes, with the Countess, her servant and her son-in-law appearing through-out the tales in different guises.
As the play progresses and the tales unfold, the tension between the three figures in the room grows and it is left for the audience to decide; what were the real nature of the Countess’ crimes; what brings the son-in-law back to her room; and whether the return of her precious bath will prove to be the cure she is hoping for, or the final kill.