Sarah Macombee’s new musical work My Name is Laverne has been in development for the last year and has been performed as part of a Living Room Tour under the name Put Up and Shut Up!

It won the Best New Work at Whangārei Fringe 2022 and is the powerful story of Rose, who mourns the baby she had at 16.

The musical drama is inspired by Sarah’s Mother’s story of being coerced into giving up a baby before Sarah was born. Little did she know the impact it would have on audiences. They have been compelled to share their own family secrets of teenage pregnancies, forced adoptions, and hidden family members. Sarah was surprised and humbled to learn that there was a need for people to talk and share their experiences. This musical drama is a beautiful cathartic vehicle for people to explore a very difficult subject. Indeed, music has the ability to reach places words alone cannot.

At its core, My Name is Laverne is an intelligent, gut wrenching and profound story underscored by the power of the performances. Sarah Macombee’s exquisite songs performed with Poppy Pritchard and Julie Edwards in sublime harmonies, embody the characters’ journey. Past audiences have been moved to tears by the stunning and unexpected finale.

My Name Is Laverne – ONEONESIX