Queen Victoria and Albert’s relationship is well documented throughout the history books. Their marriage, passion, closeness, and nine children. Writer Daisy Goodwin adds an intriguing new dimension to the Royal Couples relationship in this new play Victoria: a Queen Unbound.
Known as an avid diary writer since the age of thirteen Queen Victoria’s diaries have sparked a concern with her son Bertie (Stephen Fewell) whose proved to be an embarrassing challenge for his parents at times and he is desperate to stop anything that his Mother might have written about him getting out into the public domain.
However, as the ageing Queen Victoria, played by Amanda Boxer, is reaching the end of her days and reign, she begins to reflect on her younger self and her marriage to Albert (Rowan Polonski). Although as the younger Victoria reminds her that we often reflect through a tinted lense.
Her main confidant throughout the play is her trusted physician, Dr Reid, played by Steve Chusak, who is instructed to carry out her final wishes.
Beatrice (Lydia Backlemun) tries very hard to please her mother, and their relationship is fraught at times. As the play unfolds, I wonder if Victoria was trying to save her daughter from pain and loneliness of an empty marriage.
The younger Victoria is played by Jessica Rhodes. The young Queen is full of life, energy, and passion for her new husband. As each baby arrives, the rift between them deepens. Albert takes over some of the Queen’s roles without her knowledge or approval, Albert explains that he is doing it in her best interests. Although it appears that there’s a more controlled desire from Albert. Who is unsure how to deal with his feelings about not being in charge of his household.
The stage design by Alex Berry combined with lighting designer Ben Jacobs is incredibly effective, the glass sloped ceiling above the stage reflecting the past and present at the same time. Echoing how Queen Victoria is reflecting on her life and facing a few difficult truths along the way.
For more information about Victoria: a Queen Unbound and future productions at The Watermill Theatre, please use the link below.
Five Stars.
Photo credit Pamela Raith.
Theatre, Art and Film Reviews 
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