31st October 2024, was like stepping into the pages of a gothic novel. In the dim, shadowy glow of a historic theatre, we brought the dramatic trial of Mary Ann Higgins, aged 19, and her co-accused, Edward Clarke, back to life. Both had stood accused of murder in 1831, and the suspense was thick enough to feel.
Setting the Scene: A Night in Court
Adam Wood and I directed this historical reenactment with the goal of making it as true to the original trial as possible. Armed with transcripts, authentic testimonies, and period-accurate arguments, we crafted a chilling, immersive experience. Each line, gesture, and question was chosen carefully, allowing the audience to step back in time and become a modern-day jury tasked with weighing a young woman’s life in their hands.
The Verdict: Not Guilty
As our jury deliberated and returned with their verdict, there was a collective hold of breath in the room. They found Mary Ann and Edward Not Guilty—not because they believed wholeheartedly in their innocence, but because they unanimously felt the evidence just wasn’t enough to convict. When the foreperson uttered those words, the air in the theatre changed. There was a mix of relief, unease, and contemplation. It was clear the audience felt the weight of history, and their verdict highlighted just how complex justice can be, especially when those answers are lost to time.
The Real Outcome: A Guilt That Still Haunts
This verdict stood in stark contrast to reality. In the actual 1831 trial, Mary Ann Higgins was found guilty and faced harsh punishment, while Edward Clarke was acquitted. For many, this historical outcome raises questions and reflects just how much perceptions of justice, guilt, and innocence can evolve over time. Watching the jury come to a modern verdict, Adam and I were left to wonder how differently history might remember such cases if they were decided today.
A Heartfelt Thanks to Everyone Involved
This event was far more than just a performance. Every cast member and crew member brought dedication, detail, and respect to bring Mary Ann and Edward’s story back to life, and it was clear from the audience reactions that the story struck a deep chord. We’re grateful for everyone’s passion and participation in an evening that brought both wonder and reverence for the past.
Thank you to everyone who joined us for this unforgettable experience and to those who continue to explore history’s shadowed corners.
Until the next reenactment, let’s keep telling the stories that refuse to stay buried.