The world premiere of Marion Bott’s play will take place at the Arcola Theatre from the 18th April. 

Starring Sarah Alles, the world premiere production of Moormaid will see both Marion Bott and Alles making their UK debuts at the Arcola Theatre.

This new play is about two lost individuals’ search for freedom, inspired by Marion Bott’s discovery that two of her old classmates had travelled to Syria to fight for IS and didn’t come back.

Berlin. Eleven past eleven. Art teacher Melissa is about to do something drastic.

Seeking a place to hide, her ex-pupil Mehdi interrupts her momentum. Both embark on a turbulent journey, painting and battling their way through the past.

Moormaid sets out to explore cultural differences, radicalisation, mental health, self-acceptance and isolation as well as developing an understanding the human beings caught up in extremism.

Talking about the play Marion Bott said: “The shocking news about my classmates haunted me until I took the decision to seek and better understand, rather than to judge in ignorance. As I sought the uncomfortable truths, the story of Moormaid took shape. The play tackles hugely complex themes, which we hear on the news all the time, but I’m interested in the humans behind it. Especially the radicalised youth. It’s really important to listen to their rage, and instead of being scared and letting the fear grow: face it and transform it. And never forget to ask: where is the human behind all this?”

The production is directed by Zois Pigadas, designed by Sophia Simensky with lighting and sound by Tim Boyd. It is produced by The Alchemist and Fine Line Productions.

Moormaid will play at the Arcola Theatre from the 18th April until the 19th May. For more information and to book tickets visit: https://www.arcolatheatre.com/event/moormaid/