Solstice production celebrates the 'Virgin Queen'

Acclaimed actress Rebecca Vaughan returns to the Solstice stage in Navan in her latest role as Queen Elizabeth I this Friday, 21st January. Rebecca previously performed many of Jane Austen's leading ladies in the play 'Austen's Women', a hit with Meath audiences in January 2010. At a vital crossroads in history a young queen steps from the shadows to unburden herself of her many troubles and reveal her innermost thoughts on marriage, succession, religion, war, and the challenges to her throne. But time is against her. Queen at 25, political phoenix and famously unmarried, she was the most educated woman of her age but who was the woman beneath the crown? A five star success in Edinburgh 2010, 'I, Elizabeth' is the first full production from Dyad Productions, which creates, produces and tours classic theatre with an innovative and contemporary emphasis. Using only Elizabeth's own words–adapted from letters, speeches and writings– 'I, Elizabeth' illuminates a fascinating and insightful moment of decision in the young monarch's reign. Defying the establishment by choosing to lead her country alone, Elizabeth has forsaken her own dreams and desires in order to steer England towards national and spiritual security. 'I, Elizabeth' explores the struggle to reconcile the desires of womanhood with the duties of sovereignty to expose the royal heart of an iconic historical figure. It is performed (and adapted) by Rebecca Vaughan, who –following the Edinburgh 2009 and Adelaide 2010 success of Austen's Women – continues her collaboration with director Guy Masterson, who was also the director of Morecambe, another successful play that featured at Solstice last July. Elizabeth I: traitor, heretic or prisoner? Call her what you like. The rest is history. Tickets are €16 full and available from Solstice Box Office on 046 909 2300 or online at www.solsticeartscentre.ie