Faustus: That Damned Woman

The archetype of the tragic hero has been explored and revisited several times over the centuries since Christopher Marlowe’s epic play - The Tragic History of the Life and Death of Doctor Faustus. In the original play, the protagonist exhibits a range of somewhat contradictory traits. Although he is capable of debating and thinking in a profound manner, he is still blinded by ambition and gives in to the urge to squander the powers he has gained on trivial matters. Faustus is a fundamentally flawed human being who sells his soul to the devil in exchange for magical powers. This is a direct analogue to all those who sell their careers and dignity for transient pleasures. In this play, however, Chris Bush takes the protagonist on a revolutionary new route.

Bush won several accolades including the coveted 2011 Brit Writers’ Award. She is best known for her thoroughly entertaining satirical pieces such as TONY! The Blair Musical and Tony of Arabia. In 2013, she held the post of the Pearson Playwright in Residence for Sheffield Theatres. Faustus: That Damned Woman will be directed by Caroline Byrne, a West End veteran who is well-known for productions such as Portia Coughlan and Spring Awakening. Owing to its limited running period at the Lyric Hammersmith theatre, booking tickets early will ensure that you do not miss out on this brilliant iteration of the Faustus myth!

The Story

What must a woman sacrifice to be remembered as the one true saviour? Unlike Faustus from the original play, Johanna Faustus plans to sell her soul, not in return for personal gains, but in an attempt to salvage the world from decay and sickness. Born four hundred years before the 21st century, Johanna Faust swore to restore the world and spite the Devil. After her sacrifice, Johanna flitted through the centuries, altering the course of history, and rescuing people across the globe from damnation!

Good for

Teen and Adult Audiences | Fans of the Original Play | Lovers of Tragic Plays