Get ready, theatre enthusiasts—Handbagged, the sharp, satirical comedy imagining conversations between Queen Elizabeth II and Margaret Thatcher, is about to hit the road. Reimagined with music and reworkings of 80s pop classics, this production promises to blend history, wit, and toe-tapping tunes into one unforgettable show.
This revival, produced by Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch in partnership with the National Theatre as part of the Theatre Nation Partnerships (TNP) network, embarks on its national tour from 6 February to 24 May 2025.
Handbagged’s Starry Cast: Royals, Iron Ladies, and…
Buffini’s comedy delves into what might have transpired behind closed palace doors when two of history’s most revered female leaders faced off. As if that wasn’t gripping enough, the casting adds even more sparkle.
Playing ‘Mags,’ the indomitable Margaret Thatcher, is Emma Ernest, fresh off her role in Much Ado About Nothing at Shakespeare’s Globe. Opposite her as ‘Liz,’ Queen Elizabeth II, is Helen Reuben, whose prior roles include Sally Bowles in Cabaret (English Theatre Frankfurt). Adding depth to the narrative are Morag Cross (Harry Potter and the Cursed Child) and Sarah Moyle (BBC’s Doctors), portraying the older versions of Thatcher and the Queen, respectively.
Meanwhile, Cassius Konneh and Gerard McDermott are set to tackle an astonishing 17 other roles between them, proving that multitasking is an art form. Completing the cast are Tiajna Amayo and Jane Quinn.
A Musical Journey Through the 80s
This isn’t just a straightforward revival; it’s a reinvention. Directed by Alex Thorpe, Handbagged now features a cappella singing and reimagined 80s pop hits, with compositions by Kate Marlais. Expect a nostalgic soundtrack that complements Buffini’s biting script. With Katie Lias’s contemporary golden set and Ryan Day’s award-winning lighting design, the production promises to be a visual and auditory feast.
Thorpe explains, “This ensemble cast and creative team are bringing Buffini’s satirical comedy to life in a way that is funny, fierce, and fresh. This is not a show to miss.”
The Theatre Nation Partnerships Network
Handbagged isn’t just a show; it’s part of something bigger. The Theatre Nation Partnerships initiative connects regional audiences with theatre through workshops, participatory events, and school tours. Between 2022 and 2025, the program aims to engage 500,000 people, ensuring that the magic of live theatre reaches communities far and wide.
Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch, a cornerstone of Essex’s cultural scene, is at the heart of this initiative. Known for its warm hospitality (it’s been named the UK Theatre’s Most Welcoming Theatre multiple times), the Queen’s Theatre continues to nurture the arts while introducing new audiences to world-class performances.
