Crown Matrimonial

All Monarchists and anyone interested in British history will enjoy this telling of the abdication of King Edward VIII to marry his true love, American divorcee Mrs Wallace Simpson. This warts and all production is historically acurate and visually appealing, with strong performances all round.

In the role of Queen Mary, Del Halpin delivers an emotional portrayal of the dowager Queen, struggling with the unthinkable situation of her son’s abdication and the need to maintain the traditions and demands of the Crown.  As King Edward VIII, Chris Catherwood gives the role the polish one would expect as the Leader of the British Empire. Other members of the Royal Family include Louise Harris as Princess Mary - the Princess Royal, Rob Horton - destined to take the Throne as the future King George VI and Susan Carey (his real wife) as his wife, the Duchess of York – our Queen’s parents.

The impressive set, designed and built by Michael Sutton, adds to the solemnity of the crisis at hand.

Director Kate Peters has produced a thought-provoking insight into the untenable situation being playing out within the walls of Marlborough House.

Roger McKenzie

Photo: Regina King and Peter Flowers