Ventnor Fringe Festival will host a remarkable piece of forgotten British history this year, as performer Ali Williams brings the story of Mabel Bancroft to Pier St Playhouse.
Bancroft holds the dubious distinction of being the only British person tried and charged with treason during World War II, yet her story remains largely unknown to contemporary audiences.
A local story with national significance
The performance draws from events that unfolded on the Isle of Wight itself, lending particular resonance to its Ventnor staging.
Ali portrays the landlady as she navigates her familiar Island routes, travelling from Sandown to Freshwater and changing buses at Ventnor—a journey many festival-goers will recognise.
The central question driving the narrative explores whether Bancroft was a Nazi collaborator or simply a woman whose uncompromising character led to her downfall.
Critical acclaim and award recognition
The production has already garnered significant recognition within the theatre community.
Last year, Careless Talk received a nomination for a Standing Ovations Award for best solo show at the Camden Fringe.
The show has also achieved sell-out performances in London and at the Brighton Fringe, demonstrating its appeal to diverse audiences.
Literary origins and theatrical style
Ali bases her performance on James Friel’s novel of the same name, which earned a shortlisting for the prestigious John Llewelyn Rhys Prize.
Critics have described the show as “a cross between a wonderfully observed Victoria Wood sketch of everyday life and an episode of ‘Dad’s Army’.”
London Pub Theatres recognised Ali’s work with a nomination for Best Solo Show, whilst The Stage praised her previous work as “a female National Theatre of Brent.”
About the performer
Ali brings considerable experience to this challenging solo performance.
Based in London with her family and pet snake Salazar, she works across multiple performance disciplines including improvisation, stand-up comedy, storytelling, and puppetry.
Her storytelling credentials include winning the World Book Day Storyteller of the Year award in 2012.
Booking information
Careless Talk takes place on Friday 18th (sold out), Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th July at 3.30pm each day.
Tickets cost £11.50 for general admission and £9.50 for under-25s.
Culture and Unlimited Pass holders can take advantage of a two-for-one offer on Friday performances only.
Book via the Ventnor Fringe Box Office.
The production promises to shed light on a fascinating chapter of wartime Britain, exploring themes of loyalty, character, and the consequences of speaking one’s mind during turbulent times.
See the Ventnor Fringe website for details of all events.
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