Rona Munro returns to Scottish stages this autumn with a bold new production: ‘James IV – Queen of the Fight’, directed by Laurie Sansom – the formidable duo who brought us James I, II and III. This chapter reveals the vibrant cultural mix of the Scottish court, enriching our understanding of our nation’s history.
Scotland, 1504, seen fresh through the eyes of new arrivals Ellen and Anne, two Moorish women who were expected to take their place at a royal court… but not this one. Both women now have to fight to find and keep a place in the dazzling, dangerous world of the Scottish Court of James IV. It’s a world where war is never far away, words of love and promises of peace are not what they seem and where poets might turn out to be more dangerous than any assassin.
Queens room featuring Blythe Duff, Laura Lovemore & Sarita Gabony
Employing the same wit and theatricality of the first three James Plays (James I, II and III) acclaimed playwright Rona Munro takes you back to a thrilling and uncharted period of Scottish history in this brand-new production. Join us on the journey.
Rona Munro’s vividly imagined trilogy has already brought to life three generations of Stewart kings who ruled Scotland in the tumultuous fifteenth century to the acclaim of audiences and critics from Scotland to Auckland. They were acknowledged as a landmark event in Scottish and UK theatre. Now comes James IV with Laurie Sansom directing once more.
Queens room featuring Blythe Duff, Laura Lovemore & Sarita Gabony
Blythe Duff said: “I was delighted to find out the brilliant Rona Munro had worked her magic and created James IV. I was given a tantalising glimpse of the script when Laurie Sansom invited me to workshop the piece in May 2021.
“Being back on the Festival Theatre stage during that week reminded us of the extraordinary legacy and impact The James Plays had, not only personally, but on audiences when it toured nationally and internationally in 2014/16. It was an extraordinary part of my life, and I was transported once again with Rona’s storytelling and forensic detail.
Scene featuring Danielle Jam & Daniel Cahill
“As ever her wit shines through. Always revealing the strength of her female characters. The partnership and trust she has with Laurie Sansom is evident and so important in bringing all the elements together. I just can’t wait to be back in the rehearsal room and be with the wonderful team who are ready to bring their creativity and expertise to the next exciting chapter of Scotland’s history. I feel sure the audience are ready too.”
Daniel Cahill said: “Rona’s work has always meant a lot to me, as indeed it does to every young Scottish actor and to be a part of Laurie’s magnificent vision in the original James Plays was a real honour. Now, to be revisiting the character of James who I played when we were both nearly 10 years younger feels like something special. I have still got such vivid memories of what he went through as a kid and I feel that with this bridge to the original trilogy, the momentum of the of plays is going to be carried through into this next chapter.
Scene featuring Danielle Jam & Daniel Cahill
“To go through such an intense and personal journey with James and then to have both him and myself age 10 years before reuniting in a new production to bring his story to an end feels like an apotheosis on a whole other level.”
Danielle Jam said: “I’m excited to perform in the next chapter of this incredible story and I hope to honour Ellen’s journey as much as she deserves.”
Laura Lovemore said: “I am beyond buzzed to be part of the James legacy! Can’t wait to share this sick story with everyone.”
Co-produced by Raw Material, the award-winning, independent, producing company, and Capital Theatres, Scotland’s largest theatre charity based in Edinburgh, in association with National Theatre of Scotland, the production will open at the Festival Theatre, Edinburgh at the end of September 2022 before touring to Glasgow, Dundee, Aberdeen, Inverness and Stirling.
Friday 30 September – Saturday 8 October 2022
Festival Theatre Edinburgh www.capitaltheatres.com | 0131 529 6000
