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While the phrase ‘one woman play’ might bring up disturbing recollections of The Vagina Monologues for some, Bec Applebee’s captivating tale of the life of a Cornish convict takes the form to an entirely new level.

Energetic, charming and genuinely moving, Applebee conjures Mary Bryant’s journey with warmth, humour, and the ingenious use of a range of props.

The gorgeous soundtrack, commissioned from Dalla and Radjel, interacts with the telling of the tale emphasising tension, elation and suspense in equal measure. From joyful Cornish jigs to moments of bittersweet reflection, the music is almost a character in the play itself, so textured and animated is its presence.

Mary’s tale is based on the true story of an eighteenth-century highwaywoman sentenced to a lifetime of hard labour in Australia for stealing a lacy bonnet; a literal case of suffering for fashion? We follow her on a long prison-ship voyage, where she meets, courts and marries a man represented by one of the more inventive props in the play - a mop.

The raising of a family, ephemeral escape and eventual capture, are set against a simple yet flexible set, allowing Applebee to create multiple settings. The exploration of herhighs and lows is unflinchingly portrayed; euphoric freedom is succeeded by unbearable loss, at which point you have to remind yourself that the characters are only blankets and household cleaning supplies to stop the tears.

The cyclical narrative brings us back to Cornwall, where we reflect on Mary’s loves and losses before leaving us with a defiant message of strength and female identity. Oh Mary! is a delight to watch in its buoyant physicality, taking its audience on a real journey of imagination and lived experience.



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Words: Rachael Sweet

http://becapplebee.com/

http://www.tobaccofactory.com/

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