Emma Noakes stars as Jessica Mitford in The Party Girls, a powerful new play by Amy Rosenthal premiering at the Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury. The production marks the first touring show from the Kent-based venue, bringing a compelling story of sisterhood and political extremism to life.
Directed by Richard Beecham, The Party Girls explores the lives of the infamous Mitford sisters, blending wit, heartbreak and historical resonance. Noakes leads a stellar cast in a production that promises to be both timely and unforgettable.
The Party Girls listings and tickets are available here.
You’re starring in The Party Girls at the Marlowe Theatre, what can you tell us about the show?
The play is about a group of sisters who are incredibly close in childhood but are torn apart by their different and extreme politics.
We see through Jessica’s eyes the struggle of navigating what your family appears to be, whilst holding on to who you are.
It’s a love story, and also a story of timeless and contemporary politics.
The Party Girls explores the lives of the Mitford sisters during a turbulent time in history, what drew you to the role of Jessica Mitford?
Her complexity, her vivaciousness, her humour, and most of all her strength.
I found her relentless ability to hold everyone to account—including herself—both incredibly brave and rather intimidating.
How have you approached portraying such a complex and politically charged character?
We started with a lot of research before rehearsals, which was enormously helpful.
But I really tried to focus on the emotional truth of Decca. The pain and excitement of trying to escape a life that doesn’t fit with who you are or who you want to be anymore.
I think we can all identify with that feeling… it’s universal.
What has it been like working with director Richard Beecham and the rest of the cast?
Wonderful. It’s a brilliant company.
Being surrounded by the most talented actors and watching everyone’s work has been inspiring.
Richard has assembled a brilliant team and has been rigorous in his approach to the work.
The play blends humour with historical drama – how does that balance play out on stage?
Each makes the other more vivid.
Yes, Party Girls is a historical drama, but it is also a love story—both a familial and romantic one.
What would you say to anyone thinking of booking to see The Party Girls?
If you want to see some beautiful new writing that makes you think and feel… laugh and cry, then The Party Girls is the play for you.
