The Maids by Jean Genet, translated by Martin Crimp

Witness Jean Genet’s iconic play, The Maids, as it makes a daring return to the stage, reimagined in the atmospheric and historic Pendennis Building. From October 25 to November 3, this thrilling adaptation promises to immerse audiences in a world of intense drama and dark intrigue all within the basement of Edmonton’s newly restored landmark. 

This adaptation of Genet’s The Maids, masterfully translated by celebrated playwright Martin Crimp, delves into the perilous lives of two sisters, Claire and Solange, who navigate the complexities of their servitude with increasingly blurred lines between reality and fantasy. While they present a flawless façade to their Mistress, their private world brims with contempt, resentment, and a dangerous game that threatens to unravel their sanity and safety. The central question is, can Claire and Solange complete the ceremony and vanquish their Mistress before the real world catches on to their fantasy? Or are the sisters doomed to die deaths just as insignificant and meaningless as their lives?

The Maids features Hannah Wigglesworth as Solange and Julia van Dam as Claire, with Alexandra Dawkins as their Mistress. It is helmed by Connecticut Critics Circle Award-winning director David Kennedy, and stage managed by Patton Wei. With scenic design by Even Gilchrist, costume design by Beyata Hackborn, sound design by Nick Kourtides, and production management by Jacy Grummett.

With support from The Canada Council for the Arts, the Edmonton Arts Council, and the University of Alberta’s President’s Fund. The venue is wheelchair accessible, including access to an accessible washroom.