THE PILLOWMAN
3rd – 8th November 2025
Explore the darker side of fairy tales in this acclaimed black comedy
Delve into the twisted world of Katurian, a short fiction writer living in a police state. When several children are found murdered in ways strikingly similar to her macabre children’s stories, she finds herself arrested and at the mercy of two detectives. As the clock ticks relentlessly toward her impending execution, Katurian must prove to the police that her only crime is crafting stories—but will they believe her in time?
Comprising narrations and reenactments of several of Katurian’s stories (including the harrowingly autobiographical ‘The Writer and ‘The Writer’s Brother’), this play explores the development of Katurian’s disturbed imagination, along with the impact a troubled past can have on the present.
Step into the darkly enchanting world of The Pillowman, where Oscar-winning screenwriter Martin McDonagh weaves a gripping tale that echoes the chilling brilliance of the Brothers Grimm.
Age recommendation: Age 16+ or at parental discretion, parental supervision advised. Contains disturbing themes. Trigger warnings: Child abuse and child murder, depictions of mental illness, violence, police brutality and firearm use.