Imelda Staunton and Bessie Carter to Star in Mrs Warren’s Profession West End Revival
Imelda Staunton and Bessie Carter are set to take center stage in a new West End revival of Mrs Warren’s Profession by George Bernard Shaw. Directed by Dominic Cooke, this marks the first time the real-life mother and daughter will perform together on stage, playing the roles of Mrs Kitty Warren and her daughter Vivie.
The play, known for its bold critique of societal hypocrisy and class structures, was originally banned for 30 years by Lord Chamberlain due to its controversial subject matter. Staunton describes the play as “ever pertinent,” addressing the survival choices women face in society.
Creative Team
The production brings together a team of renowned collaborators:
Director: Dominic Cooke (Follies, Hello, Dolly!)
Producer: Sonia Friedman (Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?, Clybourne Park)
Design: Chloe Lamford (A Number, The Glow)
Casting: Amy Ball
Statements from the Creatives
Imelda Staunton shared her excitement about the project:
“The new year felt like the perfect time to return to the stage in Mrs Warren’s Profession, a play which asks ever pertinent questions about the role of women in society, and the choices they make for survival. I couldn’t be happier to be stepping into the rehearsal room with my very great friend and colleague Dominic; and my brilliant daughter Bessie. What a treat for 2025!”
Dominic Cooke commented on the play’s enduring relevance:
“Although Mrs Warren’s Profession is over 120 years old, it still has the power to shock with its frank and provocative examination of the exploitative nature of society and the double standards applied to women. I’m thrilled to collaborate with Imelda Staunton for the first time on a play and to work alongside the super talented Bessie Carter. This production feels especially exciting as it reunites me with Sonia Friedman after 15 years.”
Performance Details
Venue: Garrick Theatre, West End
Previews Begin: 10 May 2025
Opening Night: 22 May 2025
Run Ends: 16 August 2025
Tickets for Mrs Warren’s Profession will go on sale soon, with further updates available through the production’s official website and newsletters.
Don’t miss this remarkable revival of Shaw’s classic, featuring two generations of extraordinary talent on one stage!
