CORE Theatre Ensemble presents an original performance based on the infamous trial of Lizzie Borden and the brutal ax murders of her parents.

Love lives in dreams; guilt thrives in nightmares.

The Lizzie Borden murder case captivated the nation over one hundred years ago and is still considered “one of the most dastardly and diabolical crimes that was ever committed.” Andrew and Abby Borden’s bodies were found axed to death in their home in August 1892; their daughter Lizzie was arrested and charged days later. The case was surrounded by a passionately divided public. The opinion of women and the extent of their capabilities fueled an intense debate concerning her guilt or innocence. Lizzie was ultimately acquitted of all charges due to circumstantial evidence, incompetent prosecution, and the pervading delusion that a “woman is incapable of doing so foul a deed.”

Age recommendation: 15+
Content advisory: Blood, violence, sexual situations

40 Whacks was originally conceived and performed in 2011 in Norfolk, VA. It has since been performed at Fêtes Internationales du Théâtre-Quebec, The Brick Theater-New York, and Tarptautinis Universitetinių Teatrų Forumas IUTF-Lithuania where it was awarded for Best Production and Best Performer.