To Stop Her Mouth

Images: Jason Lock

To Stop Her Mouth was commissioned by Trust New Art & Waterside Arts as part of the National Trust’s Women & Power programme. An audio installation within the corridors of mansion house at NT Lyme Park, To Stop Her Mouth followed the journey of Ellen Turner, a young heiress who in 1826, aged only 16, was abducted and forced into marriage. The work explored how Ellen was viewed by the public press as she prepared to stand and give evidence against her abductor and reflected on the treatment of women today by the press and judicial system.

Filament were invited to talk about To Stop Her Mouth at the National Trust’s ‘Women & Power; Redressing the Balance’ conference at the University of Oxford.

Written by Sarah Richardson

Design by Lis Evans

Lighting design by John Slevin

Sound design by Joel Clements

Scenic artistry by Melissa McCann

Graphic design by Richard Hand

Performed by Victoria Brazier, Gareth Cassidy, Deborah McAndrew, Elizabeth Nelson, Andrew Pollard

R&D supported by Sophia Hatfield, Polly Lister

Directed by Sarah Richardson

Produced by Helen Slevin

Creative Producer for Waterside Arts: Ross Carey

For Trust New Art: Cathy Newberry, Kelda Savage

With thanks to the NT Lyme property team and volunteers, in particular Kate Atkinson and Margaret Homer for their historical insight. Also to Sarah Fox for her academic research and support.