Mother is in prison. Daughter has come to visit. Closely watched by security personnel, they have 1 hour. A trained actor, and quick-witted Mother tries to keep things light… but the darkness rises up around them as they are forced to confront the disorienting series of events that led them here. Surrender takes us on the blurry and sleep-deprived journey of a flawed woman trying to survive in a punishing and dysfunctional system that has separated her from her daughter. Thirteen years later, they have forgotten how to love each other… and this is their last chance to connect.
Surrender is the result of a collaboration between Writer Sophie Swithinbank and Director/Performer Phoebe Ladenburg. Drawing on Phoebe’s early experiences as a mother, Surrender investigates Kate’s journey of submission in Shakespeare’s Taming of the Shrew, not through the lens of marriage, but through the lens of motherhood.
Written by Sophie Swithinbank following the success of her multi award-winning and Edinburgh sell-out play, BACON
Content warnings: This production contains distressing or potentially triggering themes, strong language/swearing, flashing lights, loud noises, haze.
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Post Show Q&A: The Making of Surrender – Thursday 11th July
Join us for a post-show discussion with the creators of Surrender: Writer & Co-director Sophie Swithinbank and Performer & Co-director Phoebe Ladenburg, chaired by Hannah Farley-Hills from HFH Productions.
★★★★ “As enraging as it is engrossing. ” – The Stage
★★★★ “A sharp, witty and effortlessly natural monologue... each line seems to trickle down from her brain and into ours. ” – All That Dazzles
★★★★ “Ladenburg’s stage presence captivates the audience, even in silence. Her humour provides light relief at key moments, and her gentle yet probing connection with the audience provides much to think about. ” – The Reviews Hub
★★★★ “Ladenburg delivers a raw and emotional performance that lays bare the struggles of a mother on the brink. ” – Everything Theatre
★★★★ “There’s plenty of food for thought.” – London Theatre 1
“It is a theatrical thrill to see a team at the top of their game. Surrender is a big win.” – Once A Week Theatre
