October 2021
Nell Gwynn
by Jessica Swale
Directed by Polly Beauwin
The Restoration of the monarchy in 1660 brought with it a burst of energy and innovation. The King, Charles II was interested in science, exploration, trade and the theatre. And women. Lots of women.
The most popular of those women was, and remains, the incomparable Nell Gwynn. From her downright disreputable beginnings she rose to prominence as an actress through her wit, her humour, her vivacity and a tremendous talent for comedy.
In Jessica Swale’s Nell Gwynn, Charles is asked what he sees in the theatre. He replies “Joy – and gaiety”.And, as he later points out “What’s the point of having a country if it’s sapped of all joy?”
So come and join us for this wonderful play, full of joy and gaiety!
Cast
Nell Gwynn – Cat Lamin
Rose Gwynn – Elanor Greenwood-Stemp
Nancy – Rachel Burnham
Lady Castlemaine/ Louise de Keroualle – Juliette Sexton
Queen Catherine – Ileana Falcone
Ma Gwynn – Simone White
King Charles II – Tim Williams
Charles Hart – Hugh Cox
Thomas Killigrew – Toby Doncaster
Edward Kynaston – Tony Cotterill
John Dryden – Dominic Parford
Lord Arlington – Marcus Ezekiel
Ned Spiggett – Fred Ezekiel
Q2 Players 