‘Unexpected’ tells a story of a woman dealing with strange and unexplainable occurrences during her pregnancy. She begins to see dark and surreal visions, and grows to believe they are warnings of what her child will become. 

This production aims to shed light on perinatal depression. While postnatal depression is becoming more talked about, its equally dangerous pregnancy equivalent is still relatively unknown. Around 12% of women experience perinatal depression, yet it is still a stigma.

This visceral and bold play ties surreal elements of horror, with painfully stark humanity and humour. It is STIGMAcollective's most ambitious show to date. It has received support from VOILA! Europe and The Cockpit Theatre and its R&D process is supported by Arts Council England.

Image by Emalea Jones

Photos by Ross Kernahan