the black cat



Written by EDGAR ALLAN POE

23 - 26 March 2021 (Live-Stream)



Arguably considered Edgar Allan Poe’s darkest and most twisted tale, THE BLACK CAT follows an alcoholic who has been driven to madness and violence by his addiction. On the eve of his death, he decides to share – or confess – his story. The whole story. In all its horrific and gruesome detail.


Using Poe’s original 1843 text, our narrator (played by Stephen Smith) retells THE BLACK CAT as he travels through the Space’s 1859 building, promising an eerie ‘promenade theatre’ offering that can be witnessed from the comfort – or discomfort – of your own homes.


Created in our award-winning signature style, which combines ‘one-shot filmmaking’ with ‘live theatre’, THE BLACK CAT ensures to be a live, thrilling and authentic theatrical experience.




★★★★



"A thrilling watch, one that maximises the potential of the Isle of Dog’s The Space as a creepy crime location … A compelling presentation of Poe’s suspense-filled text."



- Karl O’Doherty​, THE REVIEWS HUB



★★★★



"Smith gives the part his all… with a booming voice that is able to provide Poe’s words with suitable gravitas."



- Nick Ferris, A YOUNGER THEATRE



★★★★



"One of the finest examples of gothic horror ever written… Smith demands your attention with his precise and elegant performance."



- Kiefer Williams, NORTH WEST END



★★★★



"Edgar Allan Poe is a writer beloved of goths everywhere … When material has not just admirers but fans, getting the interpretation right matters. In 'The Black Cat' this is not in much danger."



- Emma Burnell, VIEW FROM THE CHEAP SEATS



★★★★★



"An absolute triumph"



- Nathan Blue, EVERYTHING THEATRE



OFFIE AWARD WINNER
for Best Online Production



- OFFWESTEND.COM





SATURDAY VISITER AWARD
for Best Adaptation



- INTERNATIONAL EDGAR ALLAN POE FESTIVAL AND AWARDS





★★★★★



"The emptiness of the Theatre and the echoing within some of the main rooms bought this 1843 macabre masterpiece to life."



- Elaine Chapman, MY THEATRE MATES



"The protagonist’s inner torment and outward manifestations of viciousness are superbly conveyed by Stephen Smith who gives his best performance yet in a mammoth monologue of Poe’s distinctive prose."



- JOHN CHAPMAN



CAST & CREATIVES



Directed and Performed by Stephen Smith

Featuring Michaela Bennison as the Wife

Filmed by David Smith

Lighting and Tech Support by Eddie Stephens

Production Assistants: Xavier Moras Spencer and Josh Hinds

Dramaturgical Support: Jonah York

Marketing Support: Jack Hesketh and Bethany Fox

Stage Manager: Duncan Riches




the space, THE iSLE OF DOGS, LONDON



The perfect place for Poe!





The Space is a theatre on the Isle of Dogs, managed by St Paul’s Arts Trust (registered charity no 801587).


It was once a Presbyterian church and the building was built in 1859.


Their aims as an organisation are to increase access to the arts and provide support for new artists.


They provide opportunities for local residents to engage with the arts and a range of platforms for performance and artist development. They're activities include hosting live performances (throughout the year at the Space and during the Summer at the Roof Garden), delivering workshops and performance opportunities through our participatory theatre project and bringing people together for arts festivals and special events.


Their patrons are Sir Ian McKellen and Marie McLaughlin.


VISIT WEBSITE

promo videos





WATCH THE FULL SHOW OF 'THE BLACK CAT' - SHOT IN ONE SINGULAR TAKE AND STREAMED 100% LIVE TO A WORLDWIDE AUDIENCE





an interview with stephen smith - As part of the Space’s Spring Season Launch Party on Friday 15th January





CLOSELY RESEMBLING THE FIRST FEW MOMENTS OF OUR SHOW, CHECK OUT OUR TEASER TRAILER FOR 'THE BLACK CAT'





A BEHIND-THE-SCENES INSIGHT INTO THE MAKING OF 'THE BLACK CAT'





The Black Cat: Resources Pack



Suitable for ages 13 and over



We would like to offer a unique resource to you, your class and your school. Featuring a recording of our latest production, Edgar Allen-Poe’s The Black Cat, as well as 4 workshops inspired by techniques we have used in creating our work – The Black Cat Recording & Resources Pack is perfect for drama and theatre groups from Year 9 to Year 13.


Find out more

PRODUCTION PHOTOS BY JACK HESKETH:






enquiries@threedumbtheatre.com