Wise Women is a historical and heartfelt piece of storytelling, told through two intertwining monologues. The work draws parallels between caregiving in the 17th century and modern-day nursing, exploring the timeless burdens and resilience of women in care roles. 

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The story follows the lives of Margo and Margaret, two women separated by 375 years in Ludlow, Shropshire. Margo is a nursing student grappling with the relentless demands of her first year at university; long shifts, loneliness, and the ache of homesickness. Margaret, isolated from her community and awaiting trial for witchcraft, faces persecution for her healing herbal remedies and the consequences of forbidden love. 

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The piece was inspired by the story of Margaret Bridgen, first discovered in the Shropshire Archives, and shaped by testimonies from NHS nursing staff during the 2022–2023 strikes. Wise Women debuted as part of the Ludlow Fringe at Ludlow Old Cemetery, with additional performances at the Arena Theatre and the Old Joint Stock Theatre in Birmingham. 

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This project was made possible with support from Arts Council England and formed part of the intergenerational audio initiative Walking with the Wise. Special thanks to the Friends of St Leonard’s and Caitlin Doherty, whose contributions were invaluable to bringing this story to life.