A funny, poignant and celebratory play about the power Queen Elizabeth II wielded through her wardrobe, featuring Jane Asher and Laura Main.
By Royal Appointment runs at the King's Theatre from 26 to 30 January 2027, a short run that brings the play to Edinburgh after it opened in Cambridge on 24 September. It's written by Daisy Goodwin, who created the ITV series Victoria, and directed by Anthony Banks.
The play looks at the power Queen Elizabeth II wielded through her wardrobe. The Queen herself had little interest in clothes, yet a coat could win over a crowd and a well-picked hat could put a relative in their place. She left those choices to her Designer, her Milliner and, above all, her Dresser — a working-class girl who became the real power behind the throne, advising on everything from the colour of her lipstick to her state outfits. Like all royal favourites, she was living on borrowed time. Critics have called the show poignant, thoughtful and elegantly clever.
Jane Asher plays The Queen, with Laura Main as The Dresser, David Robb as The Designer and Matthew Cottle as The Milliner. The production features design by Jonathan Fensom, lighting by Richard Howell, sound by Sarah Weltman and composition by Ben Ringham. It's recommended for ages 14 and over.
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Evening performances start at 7.30pm, with matinees at 2.30pm, and tickets run from £23.00 to £49.50. The King's Theatre is at 2 Leven Street, EH3 9LQ.
