LUCY Kirkwood’s 2020 play The Welkin is set in Somerset in 1759, the story of a young woman condemned to death by hanging, but whose life will be saved if her claim of pregnancy is true. Twelve women of the village form the jury.

She play has been chosen by Ilminster Entertainment Society for performance at the Warehouse Theatre from Wednesday 28th to Saturday 31st October.

Sally Poppy has been sentenced to hang for murder, and her fate lies with the 12 women who must determine the truth. The plot unfolds as midwife Lizzie Luke, the only one ready to support Sally, tries to reason with her neighbours as an angry crowd waits outside.

The play explores themes of justice, motherhood, power and women’s roles in society, and it is a story that remains relevant today. The production marks the directorial debut of Richard Huish College drama teacher Gemma Thompson at the Warehouse Theatre. The Welkin is known for its strong female characters and historical setting,and the production will offer Ilminster audiences a different theatre experience.

Rosie Hawkins plays Sally Poppy with Jenny Lowe as Elizabeth Luke, leading a cast that includes Karen Bolton, Ann Cook, Lucy Driver, Zuleika Driver, Philippa Glastonvill, Claire Hart, Olwen Herridge, Jane Leakey, Lois Parsons,Claire Petts and Lottie Wild, with John Greenhalgh and John McCrowther.

The performance has an age recommendation of 16+. Performances are nightly at 7.30pm.