IN a new co-production between Ensemble Theatre and York Theatre Royal, the story of a royal whore is brought to life at the theatre’s studio until Saturday.

The cast features Elizabeth Mansfield, as Nell Gwyn,  who was nominated for Best Actress in a Musical at the Olivier Awards for her performance as Marie Lloyd in Marie, and Angela Curran, playing Margery, who recently starred in ITV’s new sitcom Job Lot and was one of the Calendar Girls in the hit movie.

The new comedy, written by award-winning Steve Trafford, transports the audience into the English Restoration.

King Charles II lies ill and Nell Gwyn, his royal whore and once the brightest star of the restoration theatre, rages against her fate.

The production features songs by Henry Purcell, performed by Mansfield and accompanied by Baroque guitar.

Elizabeth said: “2014 marks the 350th anniversary of Nell Gwyn’s first appearance on the English stage and it’s a joy to play her. She is a bundle of comic contradictions, teased out and challenged by Margery. But Margery has a secret she has never told, and as the play unfolds, the women learn more about each other than they bargained for.”

The cast are directed by York Theatre Royal’s Artistic Director Damian Cruden, who said: “The Restoration of Nell Gwyn is a celebration and exploration of two extraordinary female characters who, full of wit and ingenuity, grapple with their uncertain positions in a topsy-turvy, patriarchal world, where women do not thrive.

“I was thrilled when Ensemble approached me about working together on the production and we’re excited that it will be going on tour following its run here in York.”

For tickets, phone the box office on 01904 623568 or visit yorktheatreroyal.co.uk