This play starts with Gerry Connolly confiding to the audience that he is sick of playing the Queen. It’s like Barry Humphries being tired of playing Edna Everage.

It’s a conflict that some actors find themselves having,  when they are typecast playing a particular, ‘signature’ role. Not only are the performers in conflict but audiences are too,, wanting to see the performer in the role they are familiar witho

Connolly makes a play out of this conflict. He makes a comedy out of it,  whereas other performers might have chosen a dramatic trajectory.

Inevitably  Connolly does spend time on stage as the Queen.. On her ‘watch’ we see her meet’ a number of Australian Prime Ministers as well as the Iron Lady,  Dame Maggie Thatcher. Very funny.

Connolly is joined on stage by .two stellar, very energetic performers; Rob Mallett and Laura Murphy. 

The show is well directed by Shaun Rennie. Jeremy Allen’s glittery, very showbizzy set was a highlight.

There’s no spoiler here. The audience has to wait right up until the end to find out whether Connolly will throw off the mantle or continue with what he knows best.

THE RISE AND DISGUISE OF ELIZABETH R is playing at the Hayes Theatre until Sunday 1 March, 2020.

Featured image : Gerry Connolly and Rob Mallett in .”the Rise and Disguise Of Elizabeth R. Pic Kate Williams

Opening night was sprinkled with personalities adding a sparkle to the premiere performance. Pics by Ben Apfelbaum.