‘…this wasn’t the guy I’d written music with, performed on stage with…cried with at our friend’s funeral. He was something else. It was that look in his eyes when he saw the blood from his lip. His pupils were so tiny, he looked like an animal…’
Witch House Dreamers are a fictional British-American band who managed to find success in the late 1990s and early 2000s. With their blend of hard rock and dark psychedelia, nihilistic horror-inspired lyrics and being led by frontman Gary Machen, they seemed unstoppable. Even after two tragedies struck the band and nearly caused a break-up, they still managed to come together to save the band and themselves.
However, when the sole female member, guitarist Harley Carter, comes forward to the police, she has a disturbing and potentially explosive story to tell about the band’s lead singer. With this single action, the band’s very existence is suddenly under threat and Harley’s reputation, reliability and even her safety are called into question.
Nocebo Theatre Company is proud to present their first production; the world premiere of Born Traitor at The Old Red Lion as part of Fresh Fest 2026. Inspired by the real-life allegations and convictions of public figures, particularly musicians, who had abused their positions of power and the impact that these betrayals of trust have on their victims.
This production contains references to sexual assault, abuse, sexism and drugging.
Written and directed by Matt Flynn
Performed by Martha Hitt, Zak Rosen & James Turner
Ticket Information
Performance Dates: Fri 30th / Sat 31st January 2026
Performance Time: 7pm
Run Time: 60 mins
Tickets: £16 / £13