The Ballad of Maria Marten

Maven Theatre Company, in partnership with Te Raukura ki Kāpiti, proudly presents the New Zealand premiere of The Ballad of Maria Marten, an innovative reimagining of the infamous ‘Red Barn Murder’ of 1827.

Maven’s inaugural offering, The Ballad of Maria Marten explores the notorious ‘Red Barn Murder’ of 1827 which has become a part of British folklore and the subject of sensational gossip and grim speculation. A young woman named Maria Marten went to a barn in Suffolk to meet her lover with plans to elope. A year later, her body was discovered hidden beneath the floor. What is the truth behind her murder? Why was she killed? And who was responsible?

Rather than providing a literal retelling of this historic true crime, the play offers a thrilling reappraisal that focuses on Maria’s life. It celebrates the solidarity among female friendships and highlights the stark realities that young working-class women in rural areas faced, including limited choices due to their gender, social class, and lack of education. Through a mix of storytelling, dance, and humor, Maria's fate is explored through the eyes of the women who loved her, illuminating a complex narrative of love, loss, prejudice, and patriarchal power.

Join us for this thrilling New Zealand premiere, where historical crime meets contemporary theatre, and Maria Marten’s story is told through the eyes of the women who loved her.

Maven is the newest theatre company on the Kapiti Coast and was born from a passion for bold storytelling and a commitment to creating immersive, thought-provoking theatre that challenges conventions. Maven was formed by Sera Devcich and Jessica Clough, the creative team behind the extended sold-out season of Nick Dear’s Frankenstein on the Kāpiti Coast last year. That production received numerous accolades at the Wellington District Theatre Federation Awards, including Best Drama and Best Overall - a first for any production from Kāpiti. The overwhelming feedback received from patrons was a desire to see more locally produced, ambitious, meaningful, and expertly crafted theatre. And so, Maven was established.

Content Advisory: This play contains adult themes and some content that may disturb. Recommended for audiences 16+

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