New Venture Theatre

Our Current Production

4 to 12 October 2024
In the Theatre Upstairs

Salome
by Oscar Wilde

directed by Natasha Higdon

This production has adult and violent content, the use of haze and some flashing lights. It is not suitable for children.

Tickets Available Here

Salome was originally written by Oscar Wilde, reimagined from historical references where her title was formerly known as ‘girl’. Dehumanised in history, Wilde gives Salome an identity; agency in her decisions and requests. This classic tale will be placed in a contemporary setting and in this version Salome will be sacred, inspired by the stories of the Vestal Virgins (382 AD Roman Empire). In a surreal parallel where women are close to extinction, Salome is almost idealised with little autonomy by rulers of this new age, namely Herod and his male court. Salome is multi-faceted and objectified but she is courageous in her choices, which inevitably leads to her death. Like the Vestal Virgins of the Roman Empire, Salome must obey and follow all the men in this “ cult” ; in particular her stepfather, Herod, not distracting herself with the alluring fruit of Jokanaan. Or is her infatuation with Jokanaan completely self-sabotage? I guess you will have to find out.