Queen Bette

Queen Bette is a compelling one-woman show that delves into the extraordinary life and career of Hollywood legend Bette Davis. It explores her influences, setbacks and challenges and includes iconic dialogue from her illustrious career.

Jeanette Cronin, who takes on the formidable task of embodying the iconic star, delivers a vibrant and engrossing performance that effectively captures Davis’s fierce independence, sex appeal, and undeniable talent. Through a well-paced 75 minutes, Cronin channels Davis’s signature voice and spirit, allowing the audience to experience both the public bravado and private vulnerability of the star. Her energy never wanes, and her command of the stage keeps the narrative engaging from start to finish.

The production shines not only because of Cronin’s interpretation but also thanks to the excellent lighting design by Harrie Hogan, which enhances the emotional texture of the play. Peter Mountford's direction is equally commendable, crafting a visually interesting and dynamic stage experience that sustains momentum throughout. The set, faithful to the era, provides ample space for movement, while the on-stage costume changes add variety, keeping the audience visually invested.

At its core, Queen Bette offers an enlightening exploration of the challenges Davis faced as a woman navigating the male-dominated studio system. It touches on her battles for artistic independence, her struggle against stifling contracts, and her unapologetic, ahead-of-her-time feminist stance. This piece is more than a biography; it is a tribute to a woman who redefined what it meant to be a Hollywood star and paved the way for future generations of female artists.

Overall, Queen Bette is a well-rounded and entertaining tribute to one of Hollywood's most formidable talents, shedding light on Bette Davis’s career while also portraying her as a trailblazer, both on and off the screen.

Kitty Goodall

Photography by Richard Hedger