The Maids promo image

Sharnpal Jeetley as Madame in The Maids.

When the mistress is away, the maids will play. Two maids in service to a Madame pass the moments of their day play acting. As the line between fantasy and reality begins to disintegrate, their games take a deadly turn. Jealousy, resentment, sexual tension and betrayal converge in this classic French thriller. Suitable for 15+

Past shows

The Maids

By Jean Genet

When the mistress is away, the maids will play.

New translation by Neil Bartlett
Directed and designed by Sâmir Bhamra

A poisoned teacup, a mysterious 'Monsieur', a profusion of flowers and two sisters caught up in a fantasy of conspiracy and murder.

When left alone in the house, Claire and Solange Lemercier indulge in secret rituals of hatred and revenge, directed against their wealthy Madame. They both love and hate their mistress and are drawn daily to act out fantasies of power and submission.

Will the game ever reach its conclusion, and with what consequences?

Suitable for 14+

The 2010 tour kicks off with:

Wednesday 24 March 2010, 7.30pm
UNIVERSITY OF BEDFORDSHIRE Theatre Polhill Avenue, Bedford, MK41 9EA Bedford
0800 328 5334
£10 (Concessions £5)
www.beds.ac.uk/theatre

Thursday 25 March 2010, 7.30pm
THE HAT FACTORY
65-67 Bute Street, Luton LU1 2EY
01582 878100
£9/£7 concs/£5 NUS & Vibe Card/
Free ticket allocation for Under 26s
www.hatfactory.co.uk