Maiden Speech is a dynamic and exciting theatre festival that provides a much-needed platform to showcase the boldest new work from a new generation of theatremakers. From solo shows and gig theatre to spoken word and drag cabaret, Maiden Speech offers fresh perspectives on identity, gender, and sexuality through a myriad of stories and styles. 

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The inaugural season of Maiden Speech in 2017 staged nine shows by emerging female artists and was predominantly focused on challenging the dominant image of gender on stage. Successive seasons have expanded the remit to programme new work that provides fresh perspectives on identities, including (but not limited to) gender, race and sexuality.

 

In November 2019, Maiden Speech concluded its third and most ambitious season yet at the Tristan Bates Theatre in Covent Garden. Brought to you by a team of Mountview graduates, the 2019 season featured an impressive array of multi-disciplinary artists from around the globe.

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The festival has supported more than l00 early-career artists across its three year tenure, and provided a significant launchpad for new work.

 

Previous productions that debuted at Maiden Speech, with Lexi as originating producer, include: Purple Snowflakes And Titty Wanks (Abbey Theatre, 2021; Royal Court, 2022); Ashleigh Laurence's Tumours (Soho Theatre & Edinburgh Fringe, 2019); Tania Nwachukwu’s The Kola Nut Does Not Speak English (VAULT Festival, 2020; Bush Theatre, 2022); Rachel Causer's Off-West End award-nominated When It Happens (Seven Dials Playhouse 2019) and Please, Feel Free To Share (Theatre503, 2021; Edinburgh Fringe & Pleasance Theatre, 2022).