John Drinkwater's Mary Stuart by Rosina Piovani - A Play
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***2nd & 3rd October***
True Life Productions, in collaboration with 49Knights, presents a new adaptation of John Drinkwater's theatre play Mary Stuart. Adapted and directed by Rosina Piovani (True Life Productions) and produced by Dan Lentell (49Knights), this compelling reimagining brings fresh life to a classic historical drama.
Rosina Piovani's adaptation offers a contemporary perspective while remaining faithful to the poetry and spirit of Drinkwater's original work. A powerful character study, it explores the tensions between love, power, and destiny through the life of one of history's most fascinating women.
Presented as a 60-minute live radio drama before an audience, the production follows Mary Stuart through her relationships with David Riccio, Lord Darnley, and the Earl of Bothwell. Rather than focusing primarily on her political role, it reveals Mary as a woman of extraordinary intelligence, emotional depth, and resilience. Mary is portrayed not simply as a victim of circumstance, but as a complex figure navigating the perilous landscape of 16th-century politics. The result is an engaging theatrical experience, in the guise of a 1930s radio broadcast, that makes this historical drama accessible to contemporary audiences while preserving the richness of its setting and characters.
This special presentation forms part of the Mary Stuart Exhibition at Peterborough Cathedral and is supported by the Samuel Pepys House Trust. The producers express thanks to the Samuel Pepys House Trust, who care for the famous Diarist’s house in Brampton where John Drinkwater lived and wrote a century ago.
Join us for a poetic and intimate exploration of a queen whose personal passions and political fate remain as compelling today as ever. All done with the incredible and majestic backdrop of the Peterborough Cathedral.
This event is being organised and promoted as a fundraiser in support of Peterborough Cathedral. All proceeds from ticket sales and associated event income will contribute directly to the Cathedral’s charitable work, including the preservation of the historic building, the continuation of worship and music and the delivery of education and community programmes. By attending, you are taking part in a dedicated fundraising event that helps ensure the Cathedral remains open, vibrant and accessible for present and future generations. Thank you for your support.
True Life Productions, in collaboration with 49Knights, presents a new adaptation of John Drinkwater's theatre play Mary Stuart. Adapted and directed by Rosina Piovani (True Life Productions) and produced by Dan Lentell (49Knights), this compelling reimagining brings fresh life to a classic historical drama.
Rosina Piovani's adaptation offers a contemporary perspective while remaining faithful to the poetry and spirit of Drinkwater's original work. A powerful character study, it explores the tensions between love, power, and destiny through the life of one of history's most fascinating women.
Presented as a 60-minute live radio drama before an audience, the production follows Mary Stuart through her relationships with David Riccio, Lord Darnley, and the Earl of Bothwell. Rather than focusing primarily on her political role, it reveals Mary as a woman of extraordinary intelligence, emotional depth, and resilience. Mary is portrayed not simply as a victim of circumstance, but as a complex figure navigating the perilous landscape of 16th-century politics. The result is an engaging theatrical experience, in the guise of a 1930s radio broadcast, that makes this historical drama accessible to contemporary audiences while preserving the richness of its setting and characters.
This special presentation forms part of the Mary Stuart Exhibition at Peterborough Cathedral and is supported by the Samuel Pepys House Trust. The producers express thanks to the Samuel Pepys House Trust, who care for the famous Diarist’s house in Brampton where John Drinkwater lived and wrote a century ago.
Join us for a poetic and intimate exploration of a queen whose personal passions and political fate remain as compelling today as ever. All done with the incredible and majestic backdrop of the Peterborough Cathedral.
This event is being organised and promoted as a fundraiser in support of Peterborough Cathedral. All proceeds from ticket sales and associated event income will contribute directly to the Cathedral’s charitable work, including the preservation of the historic building, the continuation of worship and music and the delivery of education and community programmes. By attending, you are taking part in a dedicated fundraising event that helps ensure the Cathedral remains open, vibrant and accessible for present and future generations. Thank you for your support.
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Where is it happening?
Minster Precincts, PE1 1XS Peterborough, United Kingdom, Peterborough, United Kingdom
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
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Host or PublisherPeterborough Cathedral



















