She used to have dreams, now she has a baby. A sad, aging sack full of milk and regret.

Madonna on the Rocks is a visceral, beautiful, hilarious call to arms. A neon-lit menty-b at the Stay and Play. It’s about egos, responsibilities and the struggle to be an artist, or to have any career at all really, and be a relatively decent parent at the same time. With songs inspired by Madonna, Peaches and Nina Simone.

Written and performed by Marie Hamilton, composed in Berlin by Cameron Mackintosh Award winner Ben Osborn, directed by Stephanie Kempson with dramaturgy from Hildegard Ryan and Bryony Kimmings.

Brighton Fringe Award Nominated, Top 10 Shows Of The Edinburgh Fringe 2025 (Fergus Morgan The Crushbar, The Scotsman, The Stage)

“A striking image of motherhood as icon… personal and fresh, raw yet funny” ★★★★ The List

“An excellent show. Bracingly honest, profound and vitally important” ★★★★ The Stage

“This show is a gem. Refreshing, clever, and deeply human. Don’t miss it.” ★★★★ Richard’s Theatre Reviews

“Funny, sad and super relatable. A true reflection of motherhood.” ★★★★ Little Local Edinburgh

“Spectacular… a glittering, neon stage transforms the drudgery of domesticity into the glamour of showbiz. Self-aware without ever being too knowing… a triumph.” ★★★★★ Ed Fringe Reviews

“Fiercely honest… Emotionally charged and deeply resonant. I left the theatre shaken—in the best way.” One4Review

“Unhinged and uplifting… stunning. Hamilton lets us in on motherhood’s darker moments, spiralling into overwhelm and isolation before finding glimmers of joy amongst the chaos. The finale had the mother of a teenager beside me weeping in solidarity.” Fest Magazine

Website

Additional information

Age guidance: 14+

This is a babes in arms performance, however it is important to note that the show contains swearing throughout and adult themes so parental discretion is advised. We have recommended that accompanying children are under 18 months. You may bring older children to the daytime performance – however, you will know your child best and the age of the accompanying children are at your discretion. Matinee FAQs >

Content warnings: Some swearing, references to postnatal depression. Haze, flashing lights, amplified music.

Part of Matrescence Festival. Post-show Q&A led by festival organiser Lizzy Humber following the 1pm performance.

Pre-show workshop ‘Making Art After Making Life: Empowering Parents To (Re)discover their creativity‘ on Mon 18 May as part of Open Door Festival.

Venue: Auditorium, Exeter Phoenix

*Subject to a £1.50 ticketing system charge. We don’t charge this to make a profit. Find out more >>