Demonized
2f, 1m
The year is 1598. The place, a small village in France called Romorantin. Marthe Brossier, a young woman from a once-struggling family, is now one of the most famous people in the country. Her claim to fame? She has been bewitched and is now possessed by a horrible demon, with crowds of people from all across France traveling to witness the exorcisms performed on her. But Marthe has a secret: it’s all a lie. And the woman she has accused of bewitching her is not just her childhood best friend; she’s also her lover. This queer reimagining of a little-known piece of French history examines themes of love, betrayal, power, choice, and the repercussions of patriarchal society that still haunt us to this day.
“I was untouchable, impervious to suspicion, beloved by the public, praised by my father, the miracle of the church! The whole of France stood in reverence of Marthe Brossier!”
Photos by Logan Waugh, Jordan Azzinaro, and Georgie Svrcek
Production History
Demonized was first performed in a workshop production at Skidmore College in the Spring ‘24 semester, featuring two performances over the course of the semester with a revision period in between.
Read the Skidmore Theatre Living Newsletter article written about it here.
Marthe Brossier: Becca Durst
Anne Chevreau/Odette: Andie Alcorn
The Men: Lucas Gordon-Vera
Stage Directions: Kit Simpson
Directed by Georgie Svrcek
Stage Managed by Kit Simpson
Poster by Georgie Svrcek and Penelope Gibeau