“All live to die, and rise to fall”
This all-female version of Christopher Marlowe’s play brings a fresh take on this classic tale of love, violence, and what it means to live a life under the spotlight.
After the death of the King’s father, Gaveston is hastily summoned back from exile on the whim of the reckless new monarch, Edward II, to a claustrophobic court filled with increasing unrest, intrigue and perpetual distrust.
Edward and Gaveston’s love is the catalyst that threatens not just to destroy Court life – but the very foundations of England itself.
When you have no choice but to live under the relentless glare of the public eye, is it possible to keep any piece of yourself intact? Is love truly worth the risk?
As royalty clashes with the nobility, all seems set to disintegrate, Edward II explores the conflict between personal desire, political duty and legacy.
Marlowe’s turbulent drama was one of the earliest history plays, and focuses on indulgence versus the rules of kingship, alongside homosexuality. Our production addresses what happens to traditional power structures if they are converted into a matriarchy. What is the impact on the government, the kingdom and personal relationships when leaders overstep the mark? Given the tempestuous state of the modern world, we felt that this is a timely opportunity to challenge the current impression of political hierarchy.
We encourage audiences to ask: what topples a leader when they seem to be untouchable? Is royalty immune to the rule of law, or do they simply follow their own whims? When an unworkable regime falls, is the next leader any better – or are we in a continuing cycle of disillusion?
Alex Pearson Productions, in association with Glass Splinters, bring a fresh take on this classic tale of love, violence, and what it means to live a life under the spotlight.
Alex Pearson Productions focuses on telling established stories in contemporary and intuitive ways; bringing classic tales to a modern-day audience that emphasises clear story-telling and making it accessible and enjoyable for all. APP is a company that strives for inclusivity and shredding new light on stories that have been forgotten or ignored.
Glass Splinters is a new writing company focused on platforming the stories of women from history who have been omitted, marginalised or deliberately erased. We are keen to maximise opportunities in the arts for female actors, writers and directors to collaborate and showcase these tales in new and exciting ways.
Brockley Jack Studio Theatre, 410 Brockley Road, London, SE4 2DH.
Tuesday 31 March to Saturday 18 April 2026 at 7.30pm.
Booking and full details: www.brockleyjack.co.uk
