Secret Wrapped in Lead

In August 1803, Dorothy Wordsworth uncovers dark secrets in a Scottish lodging house while exploring myths and curiosities. This one-act play by Martin Travers delves into an unsettling night of discovery.

Secret Wrapped in Lead is a captivating one-act play by Scottish playwright Martin Travers, set in Leadhills during August 1803. The story follows Dorothy Wordsworth, who is traveling with her renowned brother on a tour of Scotland. Seeking shelter in a modest lodging house, she stumbles upon secrets that were never intended for outsiders. Eager to collect the chilling myths and legends of the region, Dorothy finds herself drawn to the eerie tales surrounding the Grey Glen, a place known for its madness-inducing poison and the unsettling experiences of miners.

As the night unfolds, Dorothy's curiosity deepens, and she becomes increasingly aware that the atmosphere around her is charged with hidden truths. The rants of her landlady and the tolling of the curfew bell serve as reminders that not everything is as it seems. The play explores the tension between the known and the unknown, inviting the audience to ponder the darker aspects of human experience and the mysteries that lie beneath the surface.

Travers skillfully weaves together elements of folklore and personal discovery, creating a narrative that is both magical and unsettling. Secret Wrapped in Lead offers a unique glimpse into the historical context of Dorothy Wordsworth's life while immersing the audience in the rich tapestry of Scottish culture. This edition was published to coincide with the Braw Clan tour in July 2023, making it an engaging piece for both theatre enthusiasts and those interested in the complexities of the human psyche.