Queen Victoria’s Christmas preparations are disrupted when she receives startling information about her Saxe-Coburg cousin Ferdinand. Once regent to the Portuguese Queen, Maria II, he plans to marry a mere commoner and, worse still, a lady who has made her career on the stage.
This new production, written by Carolyn Kain, is based upon events that actually happened. Vitriolic letters pass between the two cousins based in Osborne House on the Isle of Wight and Pena Palace in Sintra.
Duke Ernst, the most senior member of the Saxe-Coburg family, becomes entangled in this web of intrigue and argument. In the midst of festivities at Coburg Palace, the Duke and his mouse-like wife are faced with a decision. Should they support Victoria and her petulant objections to the marriage of Ferdinand and his bride-to-be? A final royal showdown occurs amongst the fir trees, twinkling candles and the Christmas Carols!
Presenting the show at São Brás Museum, the set and auditorium will be suitably dressed up for Christmas. The production will provide a merry start to the holiday season and the cast of 15 eccentric characters is bound to entertain.
Accompanied by two soprano voices and a pianist, there are short bursts of music that suit the mood and time of year.
This is the fourth comedic play performed by the group and, as with the others, it highlights connections between the Portuguese and British royal families. A must for anyone interested in history and looking for a festive laugh.
Performances take place at the Museu do Traje in São Brás, on Friday, December 14 at 7.30pm, and on Saturday (15) and Sunday (16) at 4pm.
Tickets cost €10 (€8 for Amigos members).
For tickets, call 966 329 073 or email admin@amigos-museu-sbras.pt
