Queen Victoria’s legacy as the second-longest reigning British monarch is explored in the fascinating and intimate production Queen, serving as a revival of Katrina Hendrey’s acclaimed one-woman show An Evening with Queen Victoria. The original was a staple of actress Prunella Scales, who performed in the production for 28 years, starting at the Old Vic in 1980. Scales now contributes a voiceover in this new production directed by Denise Silvey and taking to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
Split by two portrayals of Victoria (by actresses Sara Crowe and Grace Darling), Queen draws on the monarch’s own words from her journals, letters, and writings to explore key moments in her momentous reign—from her coronation to her final days.
This production packs a largely comprehensive number of Victoria’s defining moments into a breezy, hour-long set. Grace Darling explores the young Victoria’s youthful excitement, energy, and romantic whimsy of stepping onto the throne, through her relationship with her Uncle King Leopold of Belgium, the chaotic excitement of her coronation, and her growing romance with Albert. Sara Crowe presents a more established Victoria—grounded and confident in her role yet growing somewhat wearier—especially after the heartbreak of Albert’s death. Crowe’s Victoria recounts her love of Scotland and bond with John Brown, her relationship with Prime Ministers such as Disraeli, and her stance on being Empress of India. Given the volume of key moments from Victoria’s reign covered, both actresses present the monarch as truly human and passionate about her duties.
The addition of Scales’ voiceover is a poignant touch, bookending the narrative. We get a sense of both the toll and honour that Victoria’s duties have had upon her. The staging is quietly effective, with the George Street Assembly Hall Drawing Room stage adorned with vintage furniture—capturing and transporting us to Victoria’s living quarters. Lighting grows softer as Victoria ages, with moments of darkness filling the stage as Scales’ impactful voiceover is played.
Interesting historical titbits are thrown into the mix, such as Victoria’s relationship with Russians and her German grandson, Kaiser Wilhelm II. For those with any interest in history or those seeking an elegantly absorbing piece of theatre, Queen is a treat.
In Queen, both actresses embody Queen Victoria’s depth, showcasing her complex personality through life’s defining moments, all enriched by Scales’ moving narration. This intimate production deftly captures the historical and personal intricacies of a monarch’s long reign, leaving the audience with a vivid portrait of a passionate and resilient ruler.
Tickets to Queen are available here.
Photo: Cahoots Theatre Company