28 Oct 2024
The Company of Ten brings Merry England to sparkling life on the main stage of the Abbey Theatre in November with Jessica Swale’s witty, fast-moving, Olivier Award-winning comedy, Nell Gwynn.
Prepare for an unforgettable journey through the bawdy, brilliant world of 17th century England. First staged in 2015 at Shakespeare’s Globe, Nell Gwynn tells the extraordinary story of the orange-seller-turned-actress-turned-mistress of King Charles II. The play explores how Nell, a woman of humble origin, rises to fame as one of the first female actors in a male-dominated profession.
With a talented ensemble cast, stunning period costumes, live music and real spaniel Lula, Nell Gwynn is a dazzling, delightful story of love, laughter and the rise of a true national treasure. And how appropriate that a play about an actress is being staged by the Company of Ten to celebrate 90 years of providing live theatre to St Albans.
Rachel Maloy, who plays Nell, said: ‘I am thrilled to be bringing the character of Nell Gwynn to life in this vibrant production with the Company of Ten. Her fascinating journey offers a captivating look at a woman rising to prominence in a man’s world. With her sharp wit, confidence, humour and generosity, Nell is a joy to portray!’
Co-director Elena Markham said: “It’s a familiar story of a brave and brilliant woman trying to make her way in a world ruled by men, although it is thanks to Charles II that we have theatre today, let alone one in which women are allowed to perform!”
Fellow director Tim Hoyle added: “When I first read this play I was laughing out loud but I was also really moved by it. I couldn’t put it down so I knew straight away that I wanted to be involved with directing it. We’ve had so much fun putting this show together with a gorgeous and talented cast. We’re sure audiences will love it too.”
Performances take place from Friday November 8 to Saturday November 9, 8pm, Sunday November 10, 2:30pm, Tuesday November 12 to Saturday November 16, 8pm.
To book tickets please go to www.abbeytheatre.org.uk or call the box office on 01727 857861.
