Two brand new productions on Rugeley’s infamous poisoner come to town
Both plays are based on the true story of William Palmer who was found guilty of poisoning a man in 1856, although may have murdered nine others
The Palmer season at the Rugeley Rose Theatre starts with I Am a Murdered Man on March 30 before Prince of Poisoners shows from April 6.
Both these productions are written by local writers and performed for the first time at Rugeley’s own Rose Theatre, accompanying the production will be an exhibition café run between 1-3pm on the days of the performances.
Based on a true story: In 1856, William Palmer of Rugeley, Staffordshire was hanged for the murder of John Parsons Cook. The jury found him guilty of poisoning Cook with a drug known as strychnine.
It is believed that Palmer may have been responsible for the murder of nine others, including his brother, his wife and four of his children.
He was never held accountable by law for these deaths, yet he is remembered as Rugeley’s infamous poisoner.
I Am a Murdered Man - rehersals pictured above - by Set Piece Theatre Productions will run from March 30 to April 2 2022 and the opening night will include a gala night for local writer Gerry Hinks.
This play has been written by local writer and actor Gerry Hinks to accompany his book of the same title. Sadly, Gerry passed away last year but it was always his intention that his play would be performed at his beloved theatre Rugeley Rose.
In 1856 the law did not permit the accused to speak at their own trial but to give their name and to address the court after sentence was passed.
Palmer claimed that he was set up - that some witnesses lied and others omitted crucial facts and that vital witnesses were not called to give evidence which would prove his innocence.
This play explores the ‘what if’ version of a trial in which Palmer speaks and cross-examines his own witnesses. The play reveals an insight into the man Palmer.
The opening night will be a celebration and in honour of Gerry Hinks.
Speaking about the play Teresa Hinks, widow of the writer, said: “I am very pleased that Gerry’s wish will be fulfilled, and his play is being performed at The Rose!”
Prince of Poisoners - rehersals pictured above - by Rugeley Musical Theatre Company will run from April 6-9 2022.
It is a brand-new musical written by two members of Rugeley Musical Theatre Company, Dan Smith and Claire Hughes and tells the story of William Palmer, the famous Rugeley Poisoner.
The plot explores William Palmer’s son Billy, travelling to Rugeley, to see if he can find out the truth about his father. It was never proven that Palmer did do these things, so was he guilty or innocent?
Matt Hunt, Director of Music for the production, said: “Claire has done an amazing job with the text and Dan’s music is remarkable - very catchy – Guilty as Sin and What’s Your Poison in particular, pass the whistle test!”
To accompany the plays an exhibition will be held in the foyer of The Rugeley Rose Theatre between March 30 and April 2 and again from April 6-9.
Guests are invited to relax with a hot drink and enjoy browsing artefacts and memorabilia reflecting Rugeley in the mid 1800’s and enjoy previews of the shows on the audio-visual installation.
Tickets for each performance cost £12 for adults and £10 for concession, and both are rated PG.
To find out more or to book tickets call the theatre on 01889 584036 or visit their website.
Get all the latest news, updates, things to do and more from Rugeley, Staffordshire's dedicated InYourArea feed.
