“Drowning Girls” brings true crime to the stage

Brides in Bath was an English true crime that made headlines in 1915 Girls drowning, the brides Bessie, Alice, and Margaret are resurrected to testify against the killer and reclaim their power. This exciting tale is presented by the Department of Theater and Film at the University of Winnipeg February 13-17.It is performed by the Acting III: Honors class and directed by Associate Professor Hope McIntyre.

In 1999, Edmonton playwrights Beth Graham, Charlie Tomlinson and Daniela Vlaskalic adapted this true crime case into a ghost story for the stage. The play has toured across the country and been shown around the world. Using bathtubs on stage, the play uses the visual power of water to tell this extraordinary story. It also contains humor despite its dark themes.

“Girls drowning humanizing victims while also allowing them to share their stories in a playful way,” McIntyre said. “There is joy in the union of these three women. It's also great theater for three actors (students Mary Katagas, Renelle Chartier and Jen Gigg) who portray dozens of characters.

The play shows the systemic cause of gender discrimination in the early 1900s and how it is still relevant in 2024.

This UWinnipeg production features costume design by a student Jojo Garton, Set design was done by student Laina Judge and lighting design by Associate Professor Adam Parbusing. All technical work is performed by junior and senior students of production.

In partnership with Vocal Video Ensemble of Winnipeg (VIEW), this production will feature an audio-described performance for the visually impaired on February 17. This is a first for the UWinnipeg Department of Theater and Film and one step in their larger commitment to performance. performances are available.

Girls drowning Tuesday, February 13 through Saturday, February 17 at 7:30 p.m. At the Asper Theater and Film Center (400 Colony St., enter Balmoral).  Admission is free, though reservations are recommended.

Adult content warning: Emulation of death, violence against women, intimate partner violence, gassing, misogyny, serial murder, emotional trauma, chronic pain and hauntology. For adults and teenagers.

Housed in the Asper Center for Theater and Film at the University of Winnipeg, the Department of Theater and Film offers concentrations in education in acting, design, drama, filmmaking, dramaturgy and production/stage management. Our classes are small and our methodology is practical. Our faculty includes highly respected and award-winning professionals who are experienced teachers and are active in their disciplines, providing students with relevant and up-to-date instruction.