⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Festival Theatre, Edinburgh
I’d seen a few things online about this production months ago and had a feeling it was going to be good… I wasn’t wrong. Sophie Laplane has done it again with a piece that feels so beautifully put together, flowing effortlessly across the stage from start to finish.
The story is told through the memories of Queen Elizabeth on the final day of her life, as she reflects on how she dealt with her cousin, Mary, Queen of Scots. It’s an interesting perspective – everything seen through Elizabeth’s eyes, her regrets, her decisions, her power.
Elizabeth, danced by Harvey Littlefield, was tall, striking and a brilliant interpretation of a queen often described through history as childless, long-limbed and not particularly attractive. In contrast, Mary, danced by Roseanna Leney, was everything you’d expect – poised, sharp, elegant and immaculately dressed. The contrast between the two characters was clear in every movement.
What really stood out for me was the modern twist the creative team brought to the stage. Projections and clever shadow work added layers of intrigue and mystery, making the whole thing feel fresh and unexpected. It wasn’t just a ballet – it was a visual experience.
The music deserves its own mention. Created by the same team behind the jaw-dropping score for Scottish Ballet’s Coppélia, it was powerful, atmospheric and completely in sync with the choreography. If you ever get the chance to see Coppélia when it comes back on tour, don’t miss it.
We loved Mary, Queen of Scots so much that we’ve already booked to see it again in October when it returns to the Festival Theatre as part of its national tour. A standing ovation closed the night – and it was well deserved. For me, this one’s an easy five stars.