Friday – Patrick 3
Clara at the Door with a Revolver
Clara at the Door with a Revolver is an inspiring true crime story, adapted from a book of the same title. It’s murder mystery meets courtroom drama, with a complex protagonist who goes on one hell of a hero’s journey.
Clara Ford, a mixed-race, working-class, gender non-conforming, half Scottish, pipe-smoking, probably lesbian, 19th century single mother, gets arrested for the murder of a young wealthy white man. In police custody she confesses but once in court, pleads not guilty. If convicted, she will hang. Before a Jury of 12 white men, Clara must give the performance of her life.
Composer Ayanna takes inspiration from the ragtime traditions of Clara’s time, along with her signature blend of modern musical styles.
Book Musical – historical true crime
First draft – currently in development
Seeking producing/venue partner(s) for rigorous development process (2025 – 2026), with a view to premier late 2026, early 2027. And/or commissioning partners.
Reference to sexual assault, racist and homophobic language.
Cast of 14
Band of 6
Meet the Writers
Susan Wokoma
Susan Wokoma is an acclaimed writer, actress, and director. She wrote and starred in the Sky Comedy short film Love… Read more
Susan Wokoma
Susan Wokoma is an acclaimed writer, actress, and director. She wrote and starred in the Sky Comedy short film Love the Sinner which was selected for London Film Festival, won a Broadcast award and was longlisted for a BIFA. She recently wrote and starred in her second short film Dark Skin Bruises Differently, which is also her directorial debut. Susan wrote for Sex Education S2 and The Reluctant Landlord S2, and is developing film and series projects with BBC Films, Objective Fiction, Complete Fiction, and Netflix. Acting credits include Enola Holmes, Crazyhead, and Chewing Gum. A RADA graduate, she has performed at top theatres including the Royal Court Theatre, Bush Theatre, Almeida Theatre, National Theatre, Old Vic, Donmar Warehouse and St. Ann's Warehouse in New York.
Ayanna Witter-Johnson
Ayanna Witter-Johnson is a composer, singer-songwriter, pianist, and cellist celebrated for blending classical, jazz, reggae, soul, and R&B. She has… Read more
Ayanna Witter-Johnson
Ayanna Witter-Johnson is a composer, singer-songwriter, pianist, and cellist celebrated for blending classical, jazz, reggae, soul, and R&B. She has collaborated with artists including Anoushka Shankar, Andrea Bocelli, Nitin Sawhney, Jools Holland and Peter Gabriel. A Trinity Laban and Manhattan School of Music graduate, and Amateur Night at the Apollo winner, Ayanna has composed for the London Symphony Orchestra, Kronos Quartet and productions at The Young Vic & Bush Theatres, amongst others. Her solo releases include Road Runner (LP) and Colour War (EP). She has performed on BBC, Jazz FM, and at the Royal Albert Hall and is a recipient of the Silver Clef Classical Award.
Team
Music and Lyrics by Ayanna Witter-Johnson
Book and Additional Lyrics by Susan Wokoma
Director/Producer – Jane Moriarty
Producer – Danielle Manson
Cast:
Tori Allen-Martin
Get in Touch
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