Maybe there’s treason in us all…

1415. The armies of England muster in Southampton, preparing to launch Henry V’s invasion of France.

But Scrope of Masham has discovered a dark plot that threatens to unseat Henry and change the course of history. Scrope, loyal to his king, intends to reveal all, but as he uncovers more, at Itchen Ferry, he is pulled across the dark water. Pulled so far he may not come back alive.

Across The Dark Water has been specially commissioned to tell the story of the Southampton Plot. To add context and atmosphere, the play is being performed at a number of different venues, each one specifically chosen for its significance during Henry’s journey to battle through our region:

Portchester Castle – where Henry first learned of the plot to overthrow him. He had the conpsirators brought to him here before sending them to Southampton for trial.

Peartree Church – although not built at the time of Agincourt this is one of the most historic and characterful buildings in Itchen Village. From this village the plotters went ‘across the dark water’ on Itchen Ferry to conspire.

Royal Victoria Country Park – the Abbey nearby would have supplied wood for ships and other supplies for the army, from the shore the hundreds of ships would be seen, the Abbey would also have hosted members of the army and the plotters are likely to have travelled through there to their various meetings.

Hamble Priory Church – during their conspiracy the plotters met at Hamble. Although there is no documented evidence stating where, Hamble Priory Church is of the period, and could have been the venue, a sanctuary away from prying eyes.

St Julian’s Church – the last resting place of Richard Earl of Cambridge after his execution.

Follow in the plotters’ footsteps, 600 years later to the very day.

Scroll down to book tickets.

*Performance at St Julian’s Chapel, Southampton by kind permission of The Queen’s College Oxford