The world premiere of the musical Bloody Mary and the Nine Day Queen, by Gareth Hides with Anna Unwin, directed by Adam Stone, tells the story of two Queens: Bloody Mary and her 17-year-old cousin, Lady Jane Grey.
Set during a time of political and economic upheaval following the death of Henry VIII, and with the teenage King Edward VI on the throne, the power-hungry Duke of Northumberland lurks in the background – willing to do whatever it takes to maintain control.
How wonderful to see a brand new musical in the UK. Set in Tudor London in 1553 and 1554 this historical tale is one of bitter battles for the power to the throne – whether it be through a puppet king or immoral process.
With two incredible female leads in Queen Mary and Lady Jane, this musical is a glorious collection of music and songs and almost sung straight through. A few moments without music are generally for dramatic impact. The musicality in this production is tremendous with underscoring and correct balance in volume to not drown out the performers. Special mention has to be given to the violinist, Yvonne Yo for her sensitive playing.
The first half is a little too long and the second half has some absurdist comedy that didn’t really land for me. A song between Guildford Dudley and Lady Jane felt very much like a pantomime musical number especially with dashing Dudley dressed throughout as a handsome prince huntsman – a role Johnnie Benson was well suited for. It was an emotional scene when he was executed. The lighting has some beautiful images here and there with well controlled haze. The Set was very fringe and minimal with no creative instincts for its use. Credit to the sound operator for subtle use of reverb in the songs.
This is a powerful story carried admirably by the live band, the music and the lead performers.
Photo credit: Colin Perkins
Mary Cezarah Bonner
Jane Anna Unwin
Northumberland Constantine Andronikou
Guildford Dudley Johnnie Benson
Henry Grey Gareth Hides
Written by Gareth Hides with Anna Unwin
Directed by Adam Stone
Musical Direction by David Gibson
Movement Direction by Erena Bordon Sanchez
Set Design by Ella Burrell
Costume Design by Elisabeth Hinde
Lighting Design by Leigh Mulpeter
Produced by Handiwork Productions
Bloody Mary and the Nine Day Queen
by Gareth Hides with Anna Unwin
Union Theatre
Old Union Arches
229 Union Street
London SE1 0LR
21 October 2025 – 29 October 2025
Times
Mon-Fri 7:30pm
Saturday 2:30pm
Sunday 5pm
Tickets Weekdays £25.50 Weekend £29.50
BSL interpreted performances: Saturday 25 and Wednesday 29 October