A new Welsh company, Gagglebabble, led by Abergavenny-born performer Lucy Rivers, brings its first production to the town's Borough Theatre next Wednesday (March 14).

The Bloody Ballad of Mary Maid, based on a collection of short stories by Daniel Morden (also from Abergavenny) is a gripping love story told through Blues, Rock and Americana inspired songs and music.

Mary's not like other girls, more of a loner watching from the shadows. But all that changes when Connor, a handsome stranger, walks into her life and unleashes dark desires that Mary never knew existed.

Set around Memorial Day in 1950s America, Mary and Connor's union triggers a trail of devastation and bloodshed that only they can stop.

"The piece was first conceived early in 2010 when I read Daniel Morden's collection of Abram Wood's stories Tales From The Woods and found a wonderfully dark story called Mary Maid of the Mill." Lucy explained.

"I wanted to see if I could develop a style of theatre that used music and song in the form of a band to tell the story, and to appeal to a teenage and adult audience.

"It's a story of love, betrayal, revenge and murder – all the good stuff! The premise is that the audience is attending the Memorial Day celebrations and I really want people to be transported to the world of Midwest America in the 1950s."

Lucy attended King Henry VIII Comprehensive School and was also a member of Gwent Young People's Theatre and used to busk on the High Street every Saturday!

Her parents - actor Andy and designer Bettina - still live in Abergavenny.

She has worked as an actress, musician and composer for many years (including touring with National Theatre Wales' The Village Social ) but this is the first project that she has led creatively from the very beginning.

Tickets for the show, which cost £13 (concessions £11), are available from the Box Office on 01873 850805 or online at http://www.boroughtheatreabergavenny.co.uk">www.boroughtheatreabergavenny.co.uk