Witch is a dark comedy exploring morality and the price of a soul, along with themes of hope, desperation, and stigma. The play, written by Jen Silverman, is being performed and brought to the Bermuda theatre scene by the Bermuda Musical & Dramatic Society.

Tonight is the opening night, and due to high demand an additional performance has been added for this Sunday at 6pm.

Witch tells the story of a charming devil (Owain Johnston-Barnes) who arrives in the quiet Edmonton village to bargain for the souls of its residents in exchange for their darkest wishes. Elizabeth (Wendy Dill) should be his easiest target, having been labelled a “witch” and cast out by the town, but her soul is not so readily bought. Meanwhile, in the local noble household, ambition and rivalry turn heated with Cuddy Banks (Lil J. Bush) and Frank Thorney (Machum Simmons), witnessed by Sir Arthur Banks (Will Kempe) and the maid, Winnifred (Raven Baksh). The devil leaves flames in his wake, causing unexpected passions to flare, alliances to be formed, and the village to be changed for ever.

Milo Roberts, the show’s director, said: “[It’s] a fun and enjoyable show, featuring some sensitive content & more explicit scenes. Viewer discretion is recommended due to some of the content and language. It’s not a Hallowe'en show for children, but it is a good way overall to get ready for the spooky season.

“It’s an emotional rollercoaster and while set in the 17th century, I am hopeful that people will walk away seeing all the parallels to our modern day — wondering how much their souls are worth when hope is hard to come by.”

She added: “I am beyond excited to see this story on our stage and extremely thankful to BMDS for the opportunity to direct it. The script was brought to me earlier this year by Robbie Godfrey and Kate Farmer, both members of the BMDS Drama committee.”

This is Ms Roberts’ directorial debut, having previously been assistant-director on Boeing Boeing earlier this year at BMDS. “The goal was to give opportunities to younger and newer faces both behind the scenes and on stage,” she explained.

Also stepping into lead production roles are Max Grainger as stage manager and Emily Ishoj as producer, mentored by Tracey Beach. Set designer and painter Hannah Horsfield, lighting and sound designer Ravi Lokubahithage, and Marc Willmott on props round out the young creative team.

The cast blends some newer faces at BMDS, Ms Dill and J. Bush, along with young BMDS member Simmons, coupled with theatre veterans Ms Baksh, Mr Johnston-Barnes and Mr Kempe.

“There is a learning curve as a first-time director on a full-length show,” Ms Roberts added. “I’m extremely thankful for the cast and crew, as well as the support & mentorship that I’ve been given at BMDS over the years.”

“I’m also excited to note that the run is almost sold-out, so we have decided to add an additional show on Sunday at 6pm. So if you would like to see Witch, there are tickets still available.”