Surrender is the result of a collaboration between Writer Sophie Swithinbank and Director/Performer Phoebe Ladenburg and Director Associate Nancy Medina. Drawing on Phoebe’s early experiences as a mother, Surrender investigates Kate’s journey of submission in Shakespeare’s Taming of the Shrew, not through the lens of marriage, but through the lens of motherhood.
Produced by Hannah Farley-Hills for HFH Productions, Surrender runs from 19 June – 13 July 2024 at the Arcola Theatre in London.
Mother is in prison. Daughter has come to visit. Closely watched by security personnel, they have 1 hour. A trained actor, and quick-witted Mother tries to keep things light… but the darkness rises up around them as they are forced to confront the disorienting series of events that led them here.
Surrender takes us on the blurry and sleep-deprived journey of a flawed woman trying to survive in a punishing and dysfunctional system that has separated her from her daughter. Thirteen years later, they have forgotten how to love each other… and this is their last chance to connect.
The Artiscape spoke to Phoebe Ladenburg about the upcoming production.
Can you tell us about the script?
Ladenburg: The script has been in development with me and Sophie Swithinbank, the writer, for about six years! I originally commissioned Sophie to write something about motherhood in response to Kate’s final monologue in ‘The Taming of the Shrew’, so it started life as a beautiful piece of prose.
What are the challenges in playing a character like this?
Ladenburg: Mother is very complex – she has done some terrible things and in many ways is easy to dislike. But she is also charming, open and easy to relate to. It’s hard to get the balance right – making sure people see all sides to her so they are left without a definite judgement.
What, if any, research do you do in preparing for a role like this?
Ladenburg: I lived my life! The character was developed by me and Sophie as a result of my experience of new motherhood. The play also explores the criminal justice and social care system, which I have a good insight into from working with prison leavers and vulnerable teenagers.
What do you think an audience will take away from this production?
Ladenburg: I hope they will take away a lot of contradictions. That people will question the way they judge others and perhaps even themselves. I hope that mothers will feel seen.
Surrender runs from 19 June – 13 July 2024 at the Arcola Theatre in London. To book tickets visit the website.
Content warnings:This production contains distressing or potentially triggering themes. Strong language/swearing.
