The Maids
The critically acclaimed play The Maids, has had critical success with the London debut of this co-production of Martin Kemp’s glittering translation of jean Genet’s classic masterpiece with Jermyn Street Theatre.
Showing at the Reading Rep Theatre between Thursday 30th January until Saturday 8th February 2025, The Maids is a classic play that has scandalised audiences since 1947. The play was inspired by the real murders committed by the Papin sisters. Where the loose lines between fantasy and reality blur – with consequences.
The play is set in the Mistress’s lavish bedroom. Maids Solange and Claire are sisters who spend their time while the glamorous and wealthy madame is away role playing, and taking it in turns to play the Mistress. However their role playing is far from harmless fun as they have deadly plans for their Mistress who constantly taunts the sisters and looks down on them.
The play was captivating throughout, and it was interesting to see the dynamics between the sisters. Claire, played by Charlie Oscar and her older sister Solange, played by Anna Popplewell have constant power battles and fall outs, as now and again they turn against each other with the frustration. Claire promises to go through with it, but Solange doubts her. The self-absorbed Mistress is brilliantly played by Carla Harrison-Hodge, who dramatically goes from pity to disgust when interacting with the maids. Her diva-like presence on the stage is humorous at times. As the maids play Mistress and Maid, they become real and more intense – leaving the audience wondering what is true and what is fantasy.
There are scenes where the window doubles as a mirror and it is cleverly used throughout the play. As the audience begins to learn more about the sisters and their plans, it keeps you engaged throughout. With an impressive monologue towards the end as Solange addresses her audience at the window and a dramatic ending.
Reading Rep Theatre
Reading Rep Theatre is a local theatre in Reading, Berkshire which was founded by Reading born Artistic Director Paul Stacey in 2012 with just £500. The theatre is becoming one of the leading producing venues in the UK. It was created to break down barriers that prevent people from accessing world class theatre, as Paul is a disabled practitioner. Accessibility is is central to Reading Rep’s output and 10% of all their tickets are given away for free to those who can’t afford them.
ENGAGE allows 10,000 children, young people and vulnerable adults with professional pathways to access Reading Rep’s Theatre’s work throughout their lives. These award-winning programmes are delivered in partnership with Reading Libraries, Reading Borough Council, Reading Collage, The University of Reading and the NHS.
*Press Trip
Reading Rep Theatre, Kings Road, Reading. RG1 4LY
Box Office: 0118 370 2620
