Review - The Herbal Bed at Royal & Derngate

The Herbal Bed tells the story of Susanna Hall, Shakespeare’s daughter, who is accused of adultery. But in the chaste times, the defamation is taken to court and Susanna’s husband stands by her.

While the pace of the show initally starts off slow, the actors are expert in drawing you into the surroundings of the piece.

But once the setting and story has been established and following an encounter in the garden, the dynamic of the show changes completely.

It is difficult to discuss the satirical nature of the show without ruining the storyline but the links to today’s obsession of scandal and intrigue stands out.

It may take time to get going, but once it does, it’s edge of the seat stuff.

Superbly cast and acted with another fantastic effort by the theatre’s production team, this can be considered another triumph for the Made in Northampton banner.

The Herbal Bed can be seen until Saturday, February 27. Tickets for the show can be booked by calling the box office on 01604 624811 or visit www.royalandderngate.co.uk.