Bess - The Commoner Queen

About the Event

After a sell-out premiere run and critical acclaim in 2017 at The Guildhall Theatre Derby, "Bess the Commoner Queen" returns on its national tour in June 2019.

The Guildhall Theatre will be closed until the end of September 2019. This event has been cancelled and ticket holders will receive a full refund. 

Visit our news page for more information.

"In these troubled times, Fortune hangs by a single thread..."

A female story of survival and astonishing business success in the brutal world of Elizabethan politics, as witnessed first-hand by "Bess of Hardwick". Born a farmer's daughter, Bess rose to become the richest woman in Elizabethan England. She created the Cavendish dynasty, built Chatsworth House and Hardwick Hall and became a maker of queens. Bess was the closest female friend and Lady-in-Waiting to Elizabeth I and, at the same time, confidante to Mary Queen of Scots, whom Bess and her 4th husband (the Earl of Shrewsbury) kept under "house-arrest" for over 15 years until Mary's execution.

"Who'd 'ave thought, this Derbyshire lass would one day be tab-hanging between two great queens?"

An ambitious show presented as a seamless mix of powerful live performance and luscious film, shot on location at Hardwick Hall. 

Performed by Michelle Todd (Follies - Shaftsbury Theatre West End)

Directed by Rikki Tarascas ("celebrates the totality of theatre in knowing hands" - Plays International)

Film and Projection Design by Will Simpson ("The Kite Runner" Wyndham's Theatre & Playhouse Theatre West End)

Published by Playdead Press. Funded by First Art. Supported by Derby Live

Reviews

"A tour de force, striking outstanding production, triumph for actress Michelle Todd and playwright Kevin Fegan" (British Theatre Guide).

"Britain's most innovative playwright" (Plays International).