The trial of Elizabeth Woolcock has an uncomfortable place in the South Australian legal landscape. Whilst the legal process has often been critiqued, it is Woolcock herself that is the focus of the production “The Hanging of Elizabeth Woolcock” A Biographical True Crime Play.

For those unfamiliar with the story of Woolcock, her situation is harrowing to say the very least. During the early years of the South Australian colony, the justice system faced some steep hurdles including the quality of legal processes, adequate representation and the position of women beneath the law. Although the legal system has undergone significant reform since the 18th century, it is with these challenges in mind that Elizabeth was charged with the murder of her husband. Unseen by the audience, the inquiry and court case has been completed in favour of the prosecution. A significant loss for Woolcock, her plea for mercy denied, she is set to hanged. Now as she waits to be called to the gallows, Elizabeth recalls her story, and a difficult one it is to hear. 

Performed by Hillary Boyce, the entire ambiance is deflating. Staged in the old mess hall of the now defunct Adelaide Gaol, the very gaol that Woolcock is currently interred, could not have been a more appropriate setting for the show. Simulating her cell, the living environment was spartan and almost cruel in nature. A simple bed and bedside table, it emphasised how poorly the inmates were treated at the time and continued to add layers to Woolcock’s misery. Cramped and having a hollow sound, the performance space could not be described as anything less than atmospheric and very challenging. Although there was a moment of two of poor acoustics, again, it is a very challenging environment, Boyce was clear and easily heard. Clearly passionate about Woolcock’s circumstances, Boyce delivered a powerful performance, it was easy to believe her pain. What would have assisted her was an excellent script, written by Regina Chieftain which eloquently advocated not only Woolcock’s innocence but the extenuating circumstances that she was born into. An emotionally demanding performance, it was rewarding to see a performer commit so comprehensively to a role.