A Tryal of Witches: Inspiration

Our hometown, Bury St Edmunds, is a historic market town in Suffolk, England, known for its rich history and folklore, including tales of witchcraft. Throughout the centuries, the area has been surrounded by stories of witches, sorcery, and the supernatural. The practice of witchcraft has a long and complex history in the region, with both positive and negative connotations.

During the early modern period, witch hunts and trials were prevalent throughout England, including in Bury St Edmunds. The fear of witchcraft led to accusations and persecutions of individuals, mostly women, who were believed to be practising dark magic. The notorious Matthew Hopkins, self-appointed Witchfinder General and a key character in Tallulah Browns’ play was known to have operated in Bury St Edmunds and the surrounding areas during the 17th century.

The folklore of witchcraft in Bury St Edmunds also includes tales of wise women and healers, revered by the local communities for their knowledge of herbal medicine and spirituality. These individuals were often referred to as “cunning folk” and played a significant role in the lives of the townspeople who relied upon them for all manner of things including childbirth, curing illness and encouraging conception. A Tryal Of Witches has a similar character, Anne Alderman, whose knowledge of tinctures and herbs arouses suspicion when whispers of witches are alive on every corner.

“The claim of ‘spectral evidence’ came about because of an argument – that truly did begin over a fish – an old woman falls out with a merchant over begging for food (the Poor Relief Act in 1601 decreed the poor should be cared for by almshouses and so people’s attitude to begging really changed.) An argument blows up between the old woman begging and the wealthy merchant and it’s his children then start having these visions. Spectral evidence meant that women couldn’t have alibis – if you could prove you were elsewhere that meant nothing because if you were a witch the devil could take your image. It meant women had no way to defend themselves.” – Tallulah Brown, Playwright.

Our local museum, Moyse’s Hall, in the centre of Bury St Edmunds is home to a number of chilling artefacts. The museum is holding a new exhibition Superstition: Strange Wonders and Curiosities which opens 15th February – 6th April.

Listen to music from TRILLS who are creating music for A Tryal Of Witches.