Sylvia Plath Stole My Boyfriend: 95-Year-Old's Play Debut 2026

Sylvia Plath Stole My Boyfriend is not just a provocative title—it's the real-life story of 95-year-old Liz Hicklin, who turned her youthful romance with poet Ted Hughes into a play debuting at the Melbourne Fringe Festival this October. Hicklin's journey from missed ferry to stage spotlight is as captivating as the literary love triangle it explores.

The Accidental Playwright: Liz Hicklin's Journey

At 92, Liz Hicklin missed a ferry that would change her life. Driving through perilous rain to the Sorrento terminal, she watched the boat glide away. "Go home. Don't be ridiculous. You're 92," she told herself. Instead, she boarded the next ferry. That decision led her to the Queenscliffe literary festival, where she tracked down ABC radio presenter Jacinta Parsons. Their meeting blossomed into a partnership, with Parsons becoming Hicklin's manager. Now 95, Hicklin says, "I really should be knitting," but instead she's debuting her first play.

Sylvia Plath, Ted Hughes, and a Love Triangle

The play delves into Hicklin's romantic relationship with a young Ted Hughes, before he became the Poet Laureate and married Sylvia Plath. It offers a fresh perspective on the tumultuous love story that has fascinated literary circles for decades. Hicklin's firsthand account provides an intimate look at the man behind the poetry and the woman who would become a literary icon.

Key Takeaways from Hicklin's Story

• Age is just a number: Hicklin proves it's never too late to pursue creative passions.
• Chance encounters matter: A missed ferry led to a life-changing connection.
• Personal history is powerful: Hicklin's unique perspective on Hughes and Plath adds depth to their legend.

The Making of a Fringe Hit

With Parsons as her manager, Hicklin has navigated the challenges of bringing her story to the stage. The play, titled Sylvia Plath Stole My Boyfriend, is a mix of memoir, poetry, and drama. It's set to premiere at the Melbourne Fringe Festival, known for showcasing bold, unconventional work. Hicklin's age and vivacity have already made her a media darling, with interviews and features highlighting her indomitable spirit.

Comparing Hicklin's Play to Other Literary Romances

Why This Story Resonates Today

In an era obsessed with youth, Hicklin's story is a refreshing reminder that passion and creativity have no expiration date. Her play also sheds new light on the Hughes-Plath dynamic, offering a counterpoint to the often-told narrative of Plath as the tragic heroine. Hicklin's Ted is a young man full of promise, and her own story is one of resilience and adventure.

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