In an exciting new development for theater fans, the West End is set to showcase a powerful mother-daughter duo—Dame Imelda Staunton and her daughter Bessie Carter—starring together in a much-anticipated revival of George Bernard Shaw’s Mrs. Warren’s Profession. This production promises to blend comedy with an insightful social commentary, making it one of the most talked-about plays in London for 2025.
Bessie Carter, the talented 31-year-old actress known for her role in Bridgerton, will portray Vivie, a sharp-witted Cambridge graduate who is thrust into a world of startling revelations. As the only child of Dame Imelda Staunton and Downton Abbey star Jim Carter, Bessie has been part of an impressive theatrical legacy. Her portrayal of Vivie in this thought-provoking play will certainly show off her acting chops, bringing depth to a character who uncovers shocking truths about her mother’s past.
The plot of Mrs. Warren's Profession, a drama written in the late 19th century, centers around Vivie’s discovery that her mother, Kitty, played by Dame Imelda Staunton, has built a fortune by running brothels. This revelation becomes the driving force of the narrative, exploring the complex relationships between women, society, and the choices that lead to survival. It's a story that blends humor with tough social critique, making it both timeless and relevant to modern audiences. What's even more intriguing is the fact that the play was banned in 1902 before it could even be performed publicly. The themes Shaw explored were so controversial that it took years for the work to be accepted and staged, but it has since become a significant part of the theatrical canon.
Dame Imelda, a renowned stage and screen actress, is no stranger to high-profile roles. Her portrayal of Queen Elizabeth II in The Crown and her iconic turn as Dolores Umbridge in the Harry Potter films have solidified her place as one of the UK's most respected actresses. But as she prepares to return to the stage in Mrs. Warren’s Profession, she couldn’t be more thrilled to be taking on the role of Kitty, a character who offers both dramatic depth and comedic flair. "The new year felt like the perfect time to return to the stage in Mrs. Warren’s Profession, a play which asks ever-pertinent questions about the role of women in society, and the choices they make for survival,” she shared.
For Dame Imelda, stepping back into the world of live theater with her daughter by her side is truly special. “I couldn’t be happier to be stepping into the rehearsal room with my very great friend and colleague Dominic; and my brilliant daughter Bessie. What a treat for 2025,” she said, clearly excited for the journey ahead.
Dominic Cooke, the director behind this revival, expressed his enthusiasm for the project as well. He has a history of collaborating with some of the best talents in the business, including Dame Imelda on Follies and Hello, Dolly!. For him, Mrs. Warren’s Profession still resonates deeply, despite being over 120 years old. The play, with its bold critique of society's treatment of women and the hypocrisy surrounding gender roles, continues to shock and provoke discussions about double standards and exploitation. Cooke emphasized the relevance of Shaw's work, noting, “Although Mrs. Warren’s Profession is over 120 years old, it still has the power to shock with its frank and provocative examination of the exploitative nature of society and the double standards applied to women.”
Working with both Dame Imelda and her talented daughter is a dream come true for Cooke, who described the experience as both rewarding and exhilarating. “I have thoroughly enjoyed working with Imelda Staunton on Follies and Hello, Dolly! and I’m thrilled to collaborate with her for the first time on a play, especially alongside the super-talented Bessie Carter,” he shared. For Cooke, this production is more than just a play—it’s a reunion with producer Sonia Friedman after 15 years, making it all the more significant.
The excitement surrounding this production is palpable. Mrs. Warren’s Profession is poised to take audiences on a journey that blends humor, scandal, and thought-provoking drama. As the curtain rises, audiences will be introduced to a stellar cast that includes not only Dame Imelda and Bessie but also a host of other talented actors who bring this classic play to life with a fresh perspective. Cooke is particularly eager to share this powerful story with London audiences, especially in the context of today’s conversations surrounding gender, power, and society. “I can’t wait to bring this remarkable play and brilliant cast to London audiences in the spring,” he said.
Dame Imelda's illustrious career spans decades and includes numerous awards. Her first Olivier Award came in 1985 for her supporting roles in A Chorus of Disapproval and The Corn Is Green. Over the years, her body of work has only grown, earning her accolades for her roles in Into The Woods (1991), Sweeney Todd (2013), and Gypsy (2016), where she received the Best Actress in a Musical award for her portrayal of Mama Rose. In 2024, her contributions to drama and charity were formally recognized with a damehood in the King’s Birthday Honours, adding another prestigious honor to her impressive list of achievements.
Meanwhile, Bessie Carter has been carving out her own impressive career. Aside from her role as Prudence Featherington in the globally popular Bridgerton, Bessie has earned critical acclaim for her stage performances. She’s appeared in productions like Dear Octopus at the National Theatre and King Lear at The Old Vic. Her acting prowess is undeniable, and her work in Mrs. Warren’s Profession will no doubt further cement her status as a rising star in the theater world.
The highly anticipated revival of Mrs. Warren’s Profession is set to open at the Garrick Theatre on May 22, with previews starting on May 10. This limited run will last until August 16, making it a must-see event for theater lovers. Whether you're a long-time fan of Shaw’s work or a newcomer to this bold drama, there’s no denying the excitement that this production will bring to the West End stage.
This revival promises not only to highlight the brilliant performances of Dame Imelda and Bessie but also to remind audiences of the enduring relevance of Shaw’s themes. Mrs. Warren’s Profession challenges societal norms, giving voice to the struggles and choices of women—issues that resonate as strongly today as they did in the 19th century.
So, mark your calendars and get ready for a theatrical experience that promises to be as powerful as it is unforgettable. This is one production you won’t want to miss!
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