★★★★½
‘Pretty, witty, Nell.’ Based on true events, Nell Gwynn, by playwright Jessica Swale, is a light-hearted, witty and clever farce, presented by the third year Bachelor of Acting students at the Queensland Conservatorium, Griffith University.
Nell Gwynn was known as King Charles’ most popular mistress in the 17th century, and Restoration theatre’s best rags-to-riches story. From selling oranges in the Drury Lane theatre to becoming a celebrity figure, she carved the way for women to appear centre stage.
Putting quill to parchment is never an easy task, but Swale has created something that resembles a time of quick wit, sex scandals and entertainment with a modern take that left the opening night audience in stitches.
The story provides a ‘not-so-accurate’ insight into the playhouse of the 1600s, and the conversations that may have occurred inside. The crowning of King Charles meant the return of theatre, along with the madcap comedy that came with it.
Director Jacqui Somerville allows for a flowing mise-en-scène. She utilises blocking to maximise the stage space and bring an electric rhythm to the room, leaving no audience member in the dark. Between the sneaky allusions and playful cast engagement, the entire production feels like a knowing wink to the audience.
A little messy, although I think this was by design for Restoration theatre, the thoughtful approach to the prologue and epilogue, the sharp tongues of the characters, and pace of the performance deliver a delightful, humorous take on an important part of history: when women began acting on the stage.
On opening night, the Cheapside cast was on point. Their dedication to the script and energy on stage kept the audience laughing so much that it came as a surprise when the interval landed! Their expressionism and externalisation make for an entertaining watch. The thought and cleverness put into every character, including the background ones, feels fun and playful.
In the title role, Ellie Dawson executes Nell Gwynn masterfully. A true talent, just like her character, this graduate is a force to be reckoned with. With flair and authenticity, Dawson captures Nell’s quick wit and fearless spirit, particularly in the standout scene where she boldly takes on Frenchwoman Louise de Keroualle (Mia Thomas).
As Nell puts the King on the spot, firing frank and demanding questions with ease and confidence, you can’t help but wonder how he will respond. Dawson’s performance captivates throughout, and her vocals are phenomenal. She is believable, fun and energetic.
What King Charles II wants, King Charles II gets. Ben Jason-Easton’s performance skilfully captures the winsome personality the King must have possessed to keep his wife, Nell and a dozen other mistresses happy. Jason-Easton is charming and cheeky, and surprisingly, a pretty good political leader.
As Rose Gwynn, Olivia van Gool embodies a nurturing and kind-hearted older sister. She perfectly captures that familiar instinct to protect, bringing warmth and genuine concern to the stage.
As Lord Arlington, Georgia Cassidy shows true devotion to the King and court. The coldness and authority were felt across the room: you would definitely want to stay on her good side!
The scenes at the theatre are a joy and really bring the play to life. The characters of Nancy (Bonny Treloar), Edward Kynaston (Oliver Hunter), John Dryden (Jack Miller) and Thomas Killigrew (Michael Hawkins) are hilarious, relatable, and a lot of fun to watch.
The musical interludes are a particular highlight, sending waves of smiles through the audience. That same buoyant energy carries through the entire production. Delivering such a hilarious and lively take on a fascinating period in history requires grit, stamina and genuine talent, and the cast rises to the challenge. Together, they create a performance that is tight, confident and consistently entertaining.
The band, under Hannah Blain’s music direction, are incredibly well-timed. Their cheerful and upbeat tunes help create an atmosphere of light and laughter. The pace and precision required to stay on track and in tune did not go unnoticed; they formed a symphony of harmony and coordination. I kept looking up at them in awe, remembering there was a band following along and creating the beautiful sounds that accompanied the play. It was a true gift to witness.
The costume team deserves special mention. The designs are tasteful and quaint, with a lived-in authenticity that evokes the bustle of a 17th-century playhouse. They balance elegance with practicality, allowing Nell to command the stage while retaining the quick tongue and strength that define her character.
Nell Gwynn cleverly mirrors the cast’s own aspirations for stage success, delivering a hilarious take on one woman’s dream. Beneath the theatrical comedy, themes of love, family and sibling rivalry will leave the audience warm-hearted.
Nell Gwynn is presented by the third year Bachelor of Acting students from the Queensland Conservatorium, Griffith University. It runs to 7 March at New Benner Theatre, Metro Arts. 97 Boundary Street West End Qld 4101.
Tickets: https://metroarts.com.au/event/nell-gwynn/
Website: https://www.queenslandconservatorium.com.au/nell-gwynn-by-jessica-swale/
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/qldcon.acting/
Photo credits: Hermione Devlin
