Producers Daniel Schumann and Lee Dean have announced the full cast for the world première of By Royal Appointment, a new play by Daisy Goodwin, best known as the creator of ITV’s Victoria. The production will run at the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre in Guildford from 29 July to 2 August.

Anne Reid stars as Queen Elizabeth II, with Caroline Quentin appearing as The Dresser. Joining them are James Dreyfus as The Milliner and James Wilby as The Designer. The production is directed by Dominic Dromgoole, former Artistic Director of Shakespeare’s Globe. The creative team also includes Jonathan Fensom (set and costume design), Oliver Fenwick (lighting design), and Ella Wahlström (sound design).

Anne Reid as The Queen. Photo: Nobby Clark

Caroline Quentin as The Dresser. Photo: Nobby Clark

James Dreyfus as The Milliner. Photo: Nobby Clark

James Wilby as The Designer. Photo: Nobby Clark

By Royal Appointment explores the public image and private workings of Queen Elizabeth II’s wardrobe team. The play offers a fictionalised behind-the-scenes look at how the monarch communicated through fashion choices — using clothing to charm, signal, and on occasion, admonish. Central to the story is The Dresser, a working-class woman who rises to hold significant influence, despite the precarious nature of her role within the royal household.

This production marks Daisy Goodwin’s playwriting debut. In addition to her work on Victoria, Goodwin has authored several historical novels including The Fortune Hunter and The American Heiress, and has produced television series such as Grand Designs and Escape to the Country.

The play aims to present a humorous and reflective look at royal image-making and the unspoken dynamics within the Palace. With a cast that includes veteran actors from stage and screen, the première is expected to draw attention from theatre-goers and fans of British history alike.

Tickets for By Royal Appointment at the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre are available via the box office on 01483 440000 or at www.yvonne-arnaud.co.uk.

Theatre, art, music and culture are featured in every edition of Premier Magazine. You can browse the latest edition HERE