Emilia

What is Emilia about?

Emilia by Morgan Lloyd Malcolm tells the story of Emilia Bassano, believed by many scholars to be the mysterious Dark Lady of Shakespeare's sonnets and one of the first women to publish a volume of original poetry in England. The play imagines Emilia's extraordinary life: navigating the Elizabethan court as a woman of Venetian-Jewish heritage, fighting for recognition in a world that denied women a voice, and challenging the men who claimed her work as their own. The production is a feminist rallying cry that speaks directly to contemporary audiences.

Why see Emilia?

Emilia is exhilarating, angry, funny, and deeply moving theatre. The play uses an all-female and non-binary cast to tell a story about the erasure of women from history, and the energy in the auditorium is extraordinary. Morgan Lloyd Malcolm's writing alternates between historical drama and direct address to the audience, creating a theatrical experience that feels both epic and intimate. The original production at the Globe was a phenomenon, and London revivals continue to electrify audiences.

Practical information for visitors

Emilia plays periodically in London. Check current listings for the latest production and venue. The play contains strong language and deals with themes of gender, power, and historical injustice. It is best suited for older teenagers and adults. Running time is approximately two hours and fifteen minutes including an interval.

Similar shows you might enjoy

For more feminist theatre, consider Six for the queens' stories told through pop music, or explore productions at the Globe Theatre for more Elizabethan-era storytelling. The Importance of Being Earnest offers another classic that subverts social expectations.