History buffs will instantly recognise Lady Emma Hamilton as an enduring figure who is a gift to any dramatist. Born in 1765 she became a hostess to the great and good in Georgian society. But her notoriety was assured when she became the mistress of Lord Horatio Nelson. The liaison was under the nose of husband Sir William Hamilton who served as Envoy to the Kingdom of Naples. April De Angelis has fashioned a compact two-act play that delves into the machinations of a woman who was both mesmerising and enigmatic. Three generations of women populate the narrative and shed new light on a blacksmith’s daughter who started life as Amy Lyon.
The story begins in 1798 and the exotic climes of Naples. Lady Emma Hamilton (Rose Quentin) anxiously awaits the arrival of her beloved Horatio Nelson. She is less enthused by the return of her mother Mrs Cadogan (Caroline Quentin), who has trudged across Europe to see Emma’s love child. She feels a twinge of guilt as the product of a previous tryst lives a lonely existence. But Mrs Cadogan despairs at the direction her daughter’s life has taken. Emma pays little heed to her mother who is seemingly relegated to the role of housekeeper. The years roll by and we find Emma in middle age dreaming of past glories and lost youth. Her spartan surroundings are shared with Horatia Nelson; the illegitimate daughter of Lord Nelson who craves freedom and recognition of her heritage.
The chemistry between mother and daughter is never easy to re-create on stage, so why not cast a real-life mother and daughter in the leading roles. Lo and behold we have Caroline and Rose Quentin working like a well-oiled machine. They both get to play Emma at various stages in her life, representing a multi-faceted character that feels timeless. There are moments of raucous humour which is never far away in a lively script by April De Angelis. It loads sufficient detail to appreciate the historical context but enough space to appreciate the characters. The Quentins work extremely well together and there’s no hint of one crowding the other out, but two actors that naturally complement each other. It’s easy to assume it works because of their relationship, but doesn’t always come this naturally. Riad Richie also delivers a useful turn in the dual roles of Vincenzo and Jaques Fournier. This is an absolute treat so catch it whilst you can.Review by Brian Penn
Rating: ★★★★
Seat: E5 | Price of Ticket: £35/£31 concessions
