Laura Main will join Jane Asher in the new UK tour of By Royal Appointment, the debut play by Victoria creator Daisy Goodwin, it has been announced.
Main takes over the role of The Dresser following Samantha Womack’s withdrawal from the production due to personal reasons.
The production opens at Arts Theatre Cambridge on 24 September 2026, where it runs until 3 October, before embarking on a UK tour that includes Nottingham, Chelmsford, York, Aberdeen, Chichester, Edinburgh and Canterbury.
Main, best known for playing Nurse Shelagh Turner in BBC drama Call the Midwife, joins a cast led by Jane Asher as The Queen. Also starring are David Robb as The Designer, Matthew Cottle as The Milliner and Laura Matthews as The Curator.
Directed by Anthony Banks, By Royal Appointment explores the relationship between Queen Elizabeth II and her dresser, examining how the pair helped create and maintain the public image of Britain’s longest reigning monarch.
The play offers a behind-the-scenes look at the role fashion played within the monarchy, focusing on the Queen’s trusted team of advisers and the subtle messages conveyed through her wardrobe choices.
Described as both funny and poignant, the production centres on a monarch who could communicate volumes through a carefully selected coat, hat or colour choice, while relying on those around her to shape the image presented to the world.
The creative team includes designer Jonathan Fensom, lighting designer Richard Howell, sound designer Sarah Weltman and composer Ben Ringham.
Written by Daisy Goodwin, whose television credits include the hit ITV series Victoria, By Royal Appointment marks her first stage play and has previously enjoyed a successful London run.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
