Indie folk adaptation of Woyzeck with music by The Singing Loins.
Franz & Marie is a folk musical adaptation of Georg Büchner's Woyzeck, set in a late 19th-century world inspired by European folklore. Following his return from the front line, soldier Franz Woyzeck is haunted by visions that blur the boundaries between trauma and reality. Separated from his partner Marie and their infant son during wartime, Franz struggles to provide for his family as the pressures surrounding him build toward tragedy.
The production is directed by Michael Oakley (The Battle of Boat, Murder Ballad). The original book and lyrics are by Chris Broderick, adapted for the stage by Teresa Howard. Music is by Chris Broderick and Rob Shepherd of The Singing Loins, with arrangements, orchestrations and additional music by Steven Edis (The Go-Between, The Mistress Contract). Choreography is by Ben Wright.
Originally commissioned by the Korean theatre company ACOM, the musical has been reimagined for this London production with a cast of 14 actor-musicians. The adaptation expands the role of Marie within the story while retaining the central narrative drawn from Büchner's unfinished play.
