This witty and engaging play, written by Moira Buffini imagines the meetings of two of the most influencial women in Bristish history - the Queen and Margaret Thatcher. The ‘irresistibly mischievous’ (The Independent) comedy speculates on that most provocative of questions: What did the world’s most powerful women talk about behind closed palace doors?
Both the Director Indhu Rubasingham and writer Moira Buffini were "Thatcher children". So they are able to draw from their own personal experiences which makes the show both riveting and entertaining.
Rubasingham recalls growing up in Mansfield, near Nottingham, during the miners' strikes:
"I wasn't a Thatcher fan growing up. Now it's not that I agree with her, but I've understood her a bit more, and I really admire that someone in that time, as a woman, had that kind of conviction politics, whether or not you agree with those politics."
Handbagged presents both the younger and older versions of the Queen (played by Lucy Robinson and Marion Bailey, respectively) and Margaret Thatcher (Fenella Woolgar and Stella Gonet).
Marion Bailey will mesmerise you in her role of the older Elizabeth II, capturing the mannerisms and elocution of the monarch with unbelievable accuracy. Her younger self which is played beautifully by Lucy Robinson, is just as well-spoken. Thatcher is embodied by Stella Gonet and Fenella Woolgar, as old and young versions of Thatcher, they have captured the posture and distinctive voice of the late Prime Minister so well it will send a shiver down your spine!
This play will give you a unique insight into two women, rather than merely retelling history as we know, this coupled with the fantastic comedic support from Neet Mohan and Jeff Rawle who portray a profusion of supporting characters, from Nancy and Ronald Reagan to Neil Kinnock and Kenneth Kaunda make this a show you won't want to miss!
The exploration into the relationship between two giants of 20th Century British culture,will have even the hardest of political jostlers laughing in their seats. This is a must see show! Catch it whilst you can!
Book your Handbagged tickets now!
★★★★★
‘Magnificent’ Sunday
Telegraph
★★★★
‘Wickedly Funny’
Evening Standard
★★★★
‘A clever, mischievous little pleasure with the sharp teeth of a kicked corgi.’
Metro
★★★★
‘Deliriously funny’
Time Out