COVEN – Kiln Theatre

Inspired by England’s notorious witch trials of the 17th century, Rebecca Brewer’s Coven tells the story of Jenet Device in 1616 Pendle, Lancashire, who at nine years old accuses her family of witchcraft. Over two decades later, she finds herself imprisoned for the same crime amongst wrongfully accused women, forcing her to confront her painful past, her beliefs, as well as her identity.

Directed by Miranda Cromwell, Coven could be likened to SIX and Sylvia in some ways, powerful women historically shunned by society, reclaiming their narratives and rewriting their stories in a deeply rooted patriarchal world.

Jasmine Swan’s set is dark and intimidating, grey stone covers the stage with formidable jail bars centre stage, a constant reminder that these condemned women are trapped, while trees hang high above the stage, with the occasional full moon flickering from the back wall, adding to the mystical atmosphere and the inner turmoil that these characters faced.

Daisy Chute’s music is a mix of fist-pumping anthems and heartbreaking ballads. The song ‘Care’ led by Allyson Ava-Brown as the kind-hearted midwife Nell, is a real standout, exploring women taking back control of their bodies, and brought the energy with the cast’s melodic harmonies. Gabrielle Brooks was a real star as Jenet, her stunning yet soulful vocals seemed to truly embody the plight of her character’s tragic story, especially in ‘Testimony of 9 Year Old Jenet Device’.

Other standouts include Lauryn Redding as the sharp-witted pregnant Rose, who had plenty of one-liners, especially towards Jenet. Beyond Rose’s tough bravado, you get to see depth and vulnerability in her character, too. Joining the trio is Shiloh Coke as the deeply devout and perfectly played Frances, and Jacinta Whyte, who truly commands the stage, stealing several scenes as the mysterious healer Maggie.

Diana Vickers shines in a dual role as creepy and corrupt jailer Covell, poking fun at the women behind bars, and young boy Edmund hilariously performing a rap at Janet’s trial as an eyewitness. Her performance was a real highlight of the show and offered some much-needed comic relief.

A special shout-out must go to the ensemble, with the majority being actor-musicians, who matched the energy of the main cast with their singing and dancing in a very impressive display reminiscent of The Curious Case of Benjamin Button the Musical.

Shelley Maxwell’s clever choreography truly brought the ensemble and main cast together, bringing even more strength to their words as they seamlessly moved across the stage as one, uniting against the institutions that tried to condemn, shame, and control them.

A story of redemption, power and resistance although the story may need a little fine-tuning to make it slightly shorter, Coven offers a haunting yet fresh retelling of this dark, often overlooked period in British history.

Coven runs until 17th January 2026, with tickets available at https://kilntheatre.com/whats-on/coven/

Reviewer: Gemma Prince

Reviewed: 11th November 2025

North West End UK Rating: