About
Fri 4 Sep 2026 | 19:30
Age guidance: 12+
Join acclaimed historians Suzannah Lipscomb and Kate Williams for this unmissable live event exploring Mary, Queen of Scots and Elizabeth I—two women caught in one of the greatest political and personal crises of the 16th century.
Two queens. One crown. A decision that would change the monarchy forever.
Working back from the fall of the axe at Fotheringhay Castle, the discussion explores the chain of events and decisions that led Elizabeth to sign her cousin’s death warrant. What went so wrong between these two women? Why was Elizabeth so threatened—and could this tragedy have been avoided?
Through vivid storytelling, drawing on the latest research, Kate and Suzannah will examine espionage, treason, and gender politics in the Tudor world, from William Cecil’s spy networks and Mary’s defiant embroideries to the Babington Plot. They’ll challenge how male historians have long pitted these women against each other and will reframe their choices as acts of courage and consequence.
A gripping evening of queenship, legacy and power, this is the story of how two queens acted at the greatest crisis point of their lives.
Grand Opera House York Opening Hours
Our Box Office is open 90 minutes prior to performances
For all other times, please book via: atgtickets.com/york
