We caught up with writer, actor and musician Shiloh Coke who plays Frances and Alizon in Coven which is playing at the Kiln Theatre until 17 Jan 2026. Theatre credits include: Chiaroscuro (Bush Theatre – Nominated for Best Emerging Talent at the 2019 Evening Standard Theatre Awards), Small Island (National Theatre) and Belly Of The Beast (Finborough Theatre). Screen credits include: Cheaters (BBC), Pirates , I May Destroy You (BBC), This Way Up (Channel 4) & Fast and Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw.
In your own words, tell us about Coven and what attracted you to being part of this production.
Coven is a new musical inspired by the Pendle Witch Trials. It follows Jenet Device and the women she encounters while imprisoned. I play Frances and Alizon. I first came across the show a few years ago during its workshop stages and immediately fell in love with the music and the incredible willpower of these women. Their resilience really spoke to me — and now, to be part of bringing their story to life, feels very special.
You’re playing Frances and Alizon. Tell us about these characters and how they fit into the wider context of the play.
Frances is one of the women Jenet meets in the prison — she exists in Jenet’s present. Alizon, on the other hand, is Jenet’s older sister who lives in her past. They’re complete opposites, yet their connection to Jenet allows them to reflect and mirror one another. Playing both roles has been such a gift; it’s like exploring two sides of the same coin.
What tips would you give to a newbie to this industry?
Be your own biggest fan — and remember, there’s only one you! No one else can do what you do in the way that you do it.
What are you enjoying about being an actor right now?
I’m loving the opportunity to tell stories I truly believe in and to play characters that resonate deeply — in all their complexities and colours. I’m grateful for the brave writers and theatre-makers who dare to create roles that challenge the status quo. Because of their courage, actors like me get to build sustainable, fulfilling careers doing what we love.
If you could wave a magic wand and make one change in the industry, what would it be?
I’d love to see more recognition and celebration for everyone who works in theatre — both cast and creatives. It’s an intense commitment: six days a week, eight shows a week, driven by passion and love for the craft. It can be especially challenging for those from working-class backgrounds, parents, people with disabilities or those who care for a loved one. We must continue to nurture careers.
Quick Fire
Person you’d love to see at press night – dead, alive or fictional?
Stephen Sondheim. I’m such a huge fan of his work.
The first time you went to the theatre – and who took you?
My school took us to see an RSC production of The Tempest, directed byRupert Goold. I absolutely loved it.
What was the last play you saw at the theatre?
Not Your Superwomanat the Bush Theatre, directed byLynette Linton. Letitia Wright and Golda Rosheuvel both absolutely smashed it.
Shout out to the person in this industry who’s had the biggest impact on your career.
Justin Pierre. He taught me, and I’ll always be deeply grateful for those lessons.
Finally, why should we come and seeCoven?
Because this piece is urgent, especially in the current political climate but it’s a show built on love — love poured in by everyone who’s ever worked on it. You can feel that energy in every scene, every note. You won’t be disappointed!
About Coven by Rebecca Brewer
A scorching new musical. Based on England’s most notorious witch trials.
1612. Pendle, Lancashire. A witch hunt is raging and a 9-year-old Jennet accuses her own family of witchcraft. Twenty-one years later, she finds herself imprisoned, surrounded by the most feared women in town. As the accuser becomes the accused, Jennet must confront a 250-year legacy of witchcraft and the dark secrets of her own past.
As she listens to the shocking stories of the women around her, Jennet’s faith begins to crumble. Olivier Award-winning director Miranda Cromwell joins forces with Grammy award-winning Daisy Chute alongside Rebecca Brewer. A thrilling new musical combining uplifting anthems and powerful melodies in a fresh reinterrogation of the true story of the Pendle Witch Trials. With power in their veins and the earth beneath their feet, 13 women rise above the forces that seek to silence them. Join the coven. The trial begins.
Coven plays at Kiln Theatre until 17 Jan 2026. Book tickets.
