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Machinal by Sophie Treadwell
17 June 2025 @ 7.30pm
About Machinal by Sophie Treadwell
‘How can that be? A great sin – a mortal sin – for which I must die and go to hell – but it made me free! One moment I was free!’
The city. A woman is restless. Women are suffocating. Women are silenced. A woman revolts.
Machinal is a pulse-pounding journey of women pushed to breaking point by the relentless machinery of patriarchy, life, expectation, and convention. Sophie Treadwell’s play written in 1928, updated to 2025, in Mandala Young Company’s version, is as relevant today as it was then. It is a gripping exploration of societal norms, female identity, and the consequences of rebellion.
Inspired by the real-life case of convicted and executed murderer Ruth Snyder, the play delves into the life of a young woman caught in the machinery of a rigid and oppressive society.
The play is written in eight episodes depicting ‘the different phases of life that a woman comes in contact with, and in none of which she finds any place, any peace’. Each episode titles the location of the social institution or the type of behaviour still expected of women in the 21st century.
This is not just a play – it’s a warning, a mirror, and a rallying cry. Machinal confronts the quiet suffocation of expectation and the loud silence of being unheard. In a world still grappling with gender roles and systemic control, this story—told through a bold, modern lens—asks the question: What happens when a woman has no room left to breathe?
Come for the powerful storytelling. Stay for the uncomfortable truths. Leave changed.
What the critics say
“Poignant and beautiful writing! Loved the message.”
SOAS Student
“Such a brilliant performance. Such emotion was conveyed.”
SOAS Student
“The performers were genuinely believable characters. Very passionate performance due to the important nature of the subject matter.”
Tottenham Audience Member
Tickets
Please see important booking information below.
Booking information
Ticket prices:
Standard – £12.00
Pay more – £14.00
Pay less – £10.00
Group ticket for 10 – £8.00
Dates & times:
Tuesday 17 June 2025 at 7.30pm
Running time:
1 hour 10 minutes + 20 minutes Q&A
About The Old Fire Station
The Old Fire Station in Oxford is an arts centre with a unique social mission, combining creativity with community impact. Located in the city centre, it hosts a vibrant programme of theatre, exhibitions, music, comedy, and workshops.
It shares its space with the homelessness charity Crisis Skylight Oxford, supporting people experiencing homelessness through training and opportunities in the arts. By bringing artists, audiences, and vulnerable communities together, The Old Fire Station aims to challenge inequality and inspire positive change.
Discover more about The Old Fire Station, including travel, access and venue information.