Betsy Abell is the focus of a new historic play 'The Interesting Mrs Abell' written by local playwright Annie Bilton.
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Director Annie Bilton said that it's a strong drama about a strong woman and being a Bungonia resident, she had to write Betsy's story.
Betsy was the daughter of William Balcombe, in 1824 appointed First Treasurer of the Colony of NSW. In Sydney, their home was in O'Connell Street, where the Treasury still stands. She came with her father, mother and daughter to Sydney because her husband had deserted her, stolen her inheritance and left her with no means of support.
Though very popular in Sydney's high society, she was unable to marry again because her husband refused to release her. Her family were granted land in Bungonia and the family were often there. When her father died in debt and with rumours of scandal poisoning his reputation, the women of the family were left destitute. But with grit and determination Betsy finally overcame all obstacles to find success.
The production of 'The Interesting Mrs Abell' is at the core of the Playing Our History Project, which starts on April 10-11 in Bungonia and Marulan.
On April 10, the events start at 9.30am with The Bungonia Connection which includes talks, displays and self-guided tours linking local people, places and events to their colonial history. At 3pm, history is made with a preview performance of the play in Bungonia's historic Anglican church Christchurch.
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Dr Patricia Clarke, Australia's leading expert and published author on Colonial women, will give a presentation on Colonial Women of the Region in Marulan's lovingly restored Memorial Hall on April 11 at 1pm. It will be followed by another preview of the play in Marulan's All Saints Anglican, a historic church.
"With the threat of closure hanging over these charming old churches, this is an opportunity to open them up to engage the wider community. They provide a lovely atmosphere to perform," Annie said.
Meanwhile, the play 'The Interesting Mrs Abell' opens with the official Première at Goulburn's Lieder Theatre on Friday, April 16. This is playwright Annie Bilton's debut with the Lieder, where she is also directing."With Covid restrictions easing, we're thrilled to be able to play to full houses. And I am so impressed with the standards and talents on display at the Lieder," she said.
Information and bookings for April 10-11 events in Bungonia and Marulan can be made on 0432109977.
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