cuckoo

Cuckoo

Brother and sister, Jay and Elle, have moved from the city to rural Suffolk to live with their Gran. Both are unhappy and in different ways very vulnerable. Things change when Elle meets the charismatic Zed, but events soon spiral out of control with devastating consequences.

Cuckoo by Marth Loader – performed at INK Festival 2022, followed by a three-week tour of schools and colleges in Suffolk and Norfolk.

Martha is an award-winning writer, actor and producer. Her work has been performed across the UK and internationally. She is the recipient of the Judges Award at the Bruntwood Prize for Playwriting, the Peggy Ramsey/Film 4 Bursary Award and in 2025 the George Devine Prize.

Cuckoo illustrates how young people are targeted by exploitative drug traffickers across County Lines, and what the costs are for individuals who find themselves caught up in these dangerous networks:

‘Martha Loader’s play evokes the way that the teenage need for friendship, excitement and independence can be exploited, and even in peaceful country places can lead good kids step by step into a dangerous trade. The brother and sister are likeable, distinct characters, their nemesis equally beguiling and in his way equally innocent. It’s a strong and interesting take on one of the worst abuses of our time, directed with life and vigour.’

Libby Purves‍ ‍www.theatrecat.com

“Very powerful … fabulous, well drawn, relatable characters, and wonderful writing.”

“Fantastic insight into the way young people can be drawn into something they wouldn’t do at first ‘by degrees’.”

“The dialogue was authentic and believable. Very powerful storytelling.”

“An essential story to tell.”