By Royal Appointment comes to Chelmsford Theatre

A play inspired by the real-life relationship between Queen Elizabeth II and her long-term dressmaker is set to come to Chelmsford.

By Royal Appointment will run at Chelmsford Theatre from Tuesday 20 to Saturday 24 October 2026. Tickets are on sale now to members and go on general sale tomorrow, Friday 10 April. 

A funny, poignant and celebratory look at the powerful meaning behind the late Queen’s wardrobe 

By Royal Appointment presents an imagined peek into the life of the late monarch and the image she presented to the world.  

Famous for her discretion, Queen Elizabeth II rarely spoke her mind on delicate topics but used her wardrobe to express what she really thought. Looking back at the late Queen’s reign, By Royal Appointment reflects on key moments and decisive wardrobe choices across 53 years. As it does so, it explores the close companionships the late Queen formed with her Designer, Milliner and especially with her Dresser, Angela Kelly. 

National TV treasure Jane Asher to star in 2026 tour 

Presented by Dan Schumann and Lee Dean in association with The Arts Theatre Cambridge, By Royal Appointment is the debut play of Daisy Goodwin – the creator of hit ITV historical drama Victoria – and is directed by Anthony Banks.  

The production enjoyed its world premiere and first UK tour in 2025, which starred the formidable Anne Reid (A Woman of No Importance) as Queen Elizabeth II and Caroline Quentin (Jack Absolute Flies Again) as her dresser. James Dreyfus played the role of The Milliner and James Wilby was The Designer.  

Star of stage and screen, Jane Asher (A Family Affair, Death at a Funeral, and Poirot), is set to play Queen Elizabeth II in this new tour, with the rest of the cast yet to be announced.

Chelmsford Theatre Director, Rhys Thomas, says: 

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“By Royal Appointment is yet another top-quality show set to grace Chelmsford Theatre’s main stage later this year. With the illustrious Jane Asher confirmed to play the role of Queen Elizabeth II, this intimate new production is sure to delight any royal fans out there.”

Rhys Thomas, Chelmsford Theatre Director

Tickets are on sale to members today and go on general sale to all tomorrow, Friday 10 April. Find out more and book online: www.chelmsfordtheatre.co.uk/event/by-royal-appointment