THE WITCHING WAY (LIVE SHOW)

Photo by Grant Archer / Royal Exchange Theatre

Two years ago, Leo Burtin and I walked the 65 miles that separate Pendle Hill from Lancaster Castle, retracing the footsteps of the so-called Lancashire Witches – women who were hanged for being out-of-the-ordinary. Inspired by our journey, we wrote the story for The Witching Way, a concept album.
Part gig, part fable, The Witching Way tells two interweaving stories through live music and original video animation. After succumbing to peer pressure and trying to be someone she’s not, W. (our teen witch protagonist) is transported to a strange and wondrous landscape. In order to find her way home, she must embark on a quest, reckon with her history, overcome obstacles and ultimately find her voice. With original music spanning punk, folk, blues and rock, The Witching Way features a live band, music video visuals and animation to deliver a magically-charged rock opera for all ages.
The Witching Way experiments with multimedia gig-theatre to explore feminist storytelling and the histories of the Pendle Witches. Join Ali and her band to experience a story brimming with witches, history, feminism, indie music, experimental theatre and stunning animations.

Creative Team:
Story by Ali Matthews & Leo Burtin
Music & Lyrics by Ali Matthews and arranged with the band, who are:
Becky Wilkie (Rashdash): Piano, synth, bass, BVs
Sophie Galpin (Self Esteem/SOAK): Drums, SPD, violin, BVs
Ellis Davies (Honeyfeet/Band of Burns): Guitar, BVS
Sound by Eleanor Theodorou
LX by Louise Andersen
VFX by Adam York Gregory and op'ed by Michael-Jon Mizra
Costume by Abby Clarke


Supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England. Additional support from the Royal Exchange Theatre, the Lowry Studio and New Adelphi Theatre. Special thanks to Cheddar Gorgeous, Liquorice Black, Jo Scott, Peter Stevenson, Matt Randall and George Adams.