Interview with Jacinta Whyte, Coven at Kiln Theatre
Written by Emmie for Theatre and Tonic
This Autumn, audiences can experience the world premiere of Coven, a new musical that reimagines the infamous Pendle Witch Trials of 1612. The world premiere new musical has music and lyrics by Rebecca Brewer and Daisy Chute, with book by Rebecca Brewer and is directed by Olivier Award winner Miranda Cromwell. It follows the story of Jennet, who at just nine accused her own family of witchcraft – and twenty years later finds herself imprisoned and facing the same fate. Ahead of its run at the Kiln Theatre from 31 October, we chatted with Jacinta Whyte (Juno and the Paycock) to find out more.
To begin, could you introduce yourself and share a bit about your role in Coven? What can audiences expect from the show?
Hi my name is Jacinta Whyte, and I have the privilege of playing Maggie in Coven. Maggie is the matriarch of the women; she’s earthy and rooted in the ancient crafts of herbalism. She is knowledgeable and possesses heightened senses which enable her to traverse the past and the present, she’s an ancient psychologist…..
Audiences can expect to hear the most exciting music I have heard in a long time, sung by the most talented women in today’s theatre world (I’m in awe daily!) There’s an amusing script with heart-wrenching moments, based on fact.
Coven is inspired by the true events of the Pendle Witch Trials. How did you approach preparing for the role of Maggie? Did you find yourself diving into historical research, and if so, what stood out to you most?
I’ve watched a lot of historical documentaries on the trials and have family who live in Lancs, so I found it fascinating to research the era, area, the story, and have also read up on ancient herbalism/mysticism. What stands out is the injustice of what happened to these women, being accused of witchcraft in a male dominated society of clerics and religious orders living in a climate of fear. It was a ludicrous time before the age of reason.
How has your personal exploration of this history influenced your character development? Do you feel it will add emotional depth or new dimensions to your portrayal?
Fortunately, I live in a society where I have a voice and am entitled to my opinions. Women had no rights back then. Women who were herbalists, midwives or of the land were seen as threatening. To survive daily in those times, women must’ve been so strong so I feel quite empowered by this and feel it will lend an edge of strength to Maggie. Emotional depth too, hopefully, particularly in scenes when women are sentenced to death.
The show highlights themes of feminine power, resilience, and community. Why do you think it's vital for contemporary theatre to amplify these narratives, especially in original works like Coven?
If we look at some of the world today, we can see that for many women in certain countries, their voices have never been heard or indeed their voices and choices are now being withdrawn, for some, life is going backwards to dangerous times. The world is very volatile currently, and contemporary theatre is a platform from which to highlight these issues for society to hear. Theatre challenges norms and provides a voice for the underrepresented. It can encourage collective consciousness to highlight social issues. Coven will certainly make people think.
What has it been like collaborating with the creative team and cast on this piece? Has the process been different compared to other projects you've worked on?
The creative team are a dream. Miranda (Cromwell), our director, is a breath of fresh air, a real life force. Our Musical Director, Jennifer Whyte, is a dream and so experienced, the musical numbers will be so nuanced under her guidance. Our choreographer Shelley Maxwell watches and takes our lead in rehearsals to create the pictures.
As for the cast…..each and every one is so talented and vocally unique. When we first all sang together in the studio, there was something very special left hanging in the air…..I’m fascinated by how our talented actor/musicians play one note on an instrument and sing another! Working on a new piece, which changes constantly during initial rehearsal weeks is always exciting & challenging as opposed to an existing piece which already has a template in place. It’s possible to put your own stamp on an existing role but originating these roles and watching these characters come to life is invigorating.
What can we expect from the style of score which is put into this show too and how does that support the overriding narrative?
The score is wonderful. The lyrics are so clever. Daisy and Rebecca have created something very unique. Daisy’s melodies are haunting one minute and rousing the next, funny numbers too. Songs you are humming as soon as you hear them and several are anthemic. The score crosses so many musical styles and the lyrics propel the story forward.
Finally, what do you hope audiences will take away from Coven?
I hope they are moved, that they feel they’ve witnessed a piece of true history which they may have had no previous knowledge of, and the fact that society really needs to keep focused on moving forward together to fight today’s social injustices, stand up for fairness and equality. Mostly, I hope they will have had a bloomin’ good night out at the Kiln Theatre, which as a theatre built for their community, is the perfect space to originate Coven and its underlying message.
Coven plays at Kiln Theatre from 31 October – 20 December.
