World premiere of Jesse Norman's play adapted from his historical novel, directed by Adam Nichols at OVO's 17th-century theatre The Barn.
The Winding Stair opens at The Barn in Verulamium Park on Friday 13 November, running through to Sunday 15 November. It's the world premiere of Jesse Norman's first play, which he adapted himself from his bestselling novel. The book picked up the 2023 Parliamentary Book Awards and was named a New Statesman Book of the Year and a Sunday Times Book of the Week, so the play comes with a fair bit of momentum behind it.
The story brings together the scholar and philosopher Francis Bacon and his great rival, the lawyer Edward Coke, as the politics of Elizabethan and Jacobean England turn their rivalry into a battle for power, influence and the hand of one of the country's most eligible women. Set as Elizabeth I's reign draws to a close, it mixes political intrigue, jealousy and wit, and draws parallels between the Jacobean court and contemporary politics. There's a local connection too: Bacon grew up nearby at Gorhambury, so the setting fits the area.
It's presented by OVO at The Barn, the company's revived 17th-century theatre in Verulamium Park, and it's part of their inaugural season. The play is directed by Adam Nichols.
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There are four performances over the weekend: Friday 13 November at 7:30pm; Saturday 14 November at 2:30pm and 7:30pm; and Sunday 15 November at 6:00pm. Tickets are £15 to £29.50.
Date
13 November – 15 November
19:30
Location
The Barn, Verulamium ParkPrice
Paid
Recommended Age
+14 years
