Bloody, Bloody Kansas Brings True Crime to Camden Fringe
A new play inspired by real events is set to premiere at the Hen & Chickens Theatre as part of this year’s Camden Fringe Festival. Bloody, Bloody Kansas, written and directed by US theatre-maker Heidi Van, runs from 28 July to 2 August (no performance on 1 August).
Presented by Central Standard Theatre and The Fishtank, the play explores the story of the Bloody Benders, a 19th-century Kansas family believed to be the first known serial killers in the American West. At the centre of the story is Mary York, a fictional widow determined to uncover the truth behind the killings.
The production features a cast that includes Heidi Van, Katie Gilchrist, Vanessa Davis, and Bob Paisley, who also produces. Van is known for her work in experimental theatre and is the founder of The Fishtank and The Black Boxvenues in Kansas City. Paisley has worked extensively across North America, the UK, and Australia.
Performances run 28–31 July at 6pm and 2 August at 9pm. Press night is Tuesday 29 July at 6pm, though reviewers are welcome at other performances as well.
Tickets are priced at £15 / £12 concessions and can be booked through Camden Fringe:
👉 camdenfringe.com/events/hells-half-acre
Bloody, Bloody Kansas is staged at the Hen & Chickens Theatre, 109 St Paul’s Road, London N1 2NA, a short walk from Highbury & Islington station.
