The Promised Land

A story of a childhood in a doomsday cult.

Rhiannon is thirteen and has a recurring dream about the end of the world. She is not like her classmates; there are no birthday parties, Christmas trees, pop music or make-up. She can recite all the books of the Bible, the Ten Commandments, the twelve sons of Jacob and is fearful of being possessed by the devil. Despite her fears she is beginning to find her voice and her own identity and she secretly loves peering at the twinkly Christmas lights in wintery windows.

Originally commissioned by Upstart Theatre for Dare Festival The Promised Land is based on Rhiannon’s experiences as a child brought up in the Worldwide Church of God. It is a haunting tale told through scriptures, songs, and recurring dreams.

Written by Rhiannon Brace
Performed by Rhiannon Brace & Scott Swinton