The Ensemble Theatre’s new play, Mark Kilmurry’s production of the great German playwright Fredriech Schiller’s ‘Mary Stuart’, as adapted by Peter Oswald, is one of Sydney’s current hot tickets.

This show pretty much has it all. Schiller’s play is the stuff of classic drama. What we have is two powerful, opposing forces. On one side of the ring we have the imperious Queen Elizabeth 1 who is now at a very mature age without any heir to the throne. On the other side we have her very defiant cousin Mary Queen of Scots, the Catholic traitor whom she has held in prison for nineteen years. Queen Elizabeth 1 is faced with the worst decision of all. If she doesn’t want Mary to inherit the throne she will have to arrange for her execution.

Mark Kilmurry’s production does justice to Schiller’s raw drama. His direction is clear and tight, and has the benefit of working with a dream cast. Greta Scacchi is striking as the hard hearted Queen Elizabeth 1 who finds herself cornered and emotionally vulnerable. Kate Raison has never been better as the fiery Mary. The supporing cast is tremendous; highlights are the ever reliable Patrick Dickson is great as Dudley whose heart is vulnerable to both the great ladies, and Jonathon Prescott is wonderful as the spritely Mortimer.

The creative team do a wonderful job. Nicholas Dare’s simple set design with three classic gas torches anchored on the stage work well. Julie Lynch’s costumes are awesome, with the two leads looking stunning. The actors are beautifully made up.

‘Mary Stuart’ plays the Ensemble theatre till Saturday 6th December. Bookings- 99290644.