Local theatre group is staging Oscar-winner's dark thriller in Ramsbottom

Wednesday, 19 November 2025 16:02

By David Murphy

A local theatre company is taking on one of the most challenging works by a modern Oscar-winning writer, with a week-long run at The Theatre Royal in Ramsbottom.

The Summerseat Players are performing Martin McDonagh’s psychological drama The Pillowman until Saturday 22 November. McDonagh, best known for his award-winning films In Bruges and Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri, brings his darkly comic style to the stage in a gripping story about storytelling, censorship and control.

Set in an unnamed totalitarian state, The Pillowman follows writer Katurian as she is interrogated over a series of gruesome child murders that appear to mirror the plots of her short stories. The production is known for its unsettling twists and pitch-black humour.

The lead role is played by Mollie Winnard, known to television audiences for her appearances in Happy Valley, Coronation Street and All Creatures Great and Small. She is returning to live performance after focusing on her screen career. Joining her are stage veteran Clive Tomkinson, Summerseat regular Sam Cooper, and Connor James-Ryan, who recently completed a national tour with The Syndicate. The show also features members of the Summerseat Players Young Company, making their stage debut.

Directing the production is the group’s artistic director Stephen Davies. This is his fourth directorial project with the company.

“This script is intense, funny and deeply unsettling, and I’m delighted to be working with such a talented cast to bring it to life,” said Davies. “The play demands a lot from its performers and audience, but it’s a powerful piece of theatre and we’re proud to present it here in Ramsbottom.”

The Summerseat Players have been producing live drama in the community for more than fifty years. Entirely volunteer-led, the group has built a reputation for tackling ambitious material and staging quality productions at the historic Theatre Royal.

Performances of The Pillowman will run nightly from 15 to 22 November, with a matinee scheduled for Saturday 16 November. Tickets are available via https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/summerseatplayers or in person at the theatre’s box office.