This June, Lewes sees a new play about Sussex's hidden past.
It is a well-kept secret that the World's Deepest Hand-Dug Well stretches down 1300ft beneath Brighton.
Written and directed by Lewes-based Jonathan Brown, who was born near the well, it is set in 1862 Brighton, where Jack and 45 other men have been digging a well to supply the new local workhouse. But they're finding no water. Despite this seemingly pointless exercise and the ever-mounting expense, the digging continues. But Jack is also digging for the truth about his mother, Betsy, a prostitute who was found dead under the Chain Pier. Now, in a relationship with Bella, another prostitute, he discovers too much; about those in power, and about Betsy.
Jonathan says, "The company has worked incredibly hard, a feat that mirrors, if not matches, the digging of the well itself. "Striking water", perhaps by moving the audience, is the main aim of all their Brunelian efforts!"
And Something Underground Theatre Company scooped up several awards and nominations at this year's Brighton Fringe and Festival. Not only were they once again shortlisted Best New Play for "The Silent Stream", a prequel to "The Well", but also won the Best Male Performer Award for the same show. Whilst Rachel Guershon was nominated Best Female Performer, for their third Fringe show "Betsy: Wisdom of a Brighton Whore", another prequel to "The Well".
More info at http://www.somethingunderground.co.uk/
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