AMDG Productions will present the world premiere of Shakespeare’s Cousin, a new play written and directed by Jonathan Moore, at London’s White Bear Theatre this November.
Described as “a play for today. Set in Elizabethan England”, the production explores the life of Robert Southwell, the celebrated poet and Jesuit priest whose work is said to have influenced his cousin, William Shakespeare.
Set against the backdrop of the English Reformation, the play centres on Southwell’s interrogation by Sir Richard Topcliffe, Queen Elizabeth I’s feared torturer. Through their encounters, Moore examines the political, religious and cultural upheaval of the era and its continuing relevance to contemporary society.
The production explores a period marked by espionage, religious persecution and political paranoia, when Catholic priests faced arrest, torture and execution. Through Southwell’s story, the play reflects on issues that continue to resonate today, including censorship, religious bigotry, xenophobia, cancel culture and the personal cost of creating art under state oppression.
According to the production, Southwell was “the most celebrated poet of his age” and “the favourite of his cousin, Shakespeare”, yet remains largely forgotten outside academic circles because of his role as a Jesuit priest during a period of intense religious conflict.
The cast will feature Robin Kingsland as Sir Richard Topcliffe, Danny Solomon as Robert Southwell and Alex Townson as Sir Oliver.
Moore is an actor, writer and director whose work has been staged nationally and internationally, including productions at the Donmar Warehouse, Shakespeare’s Globe, Royal Exchange Manchester and Almeida Theatre. His previous play Inigo has been performed worldwide and published in both English and Spanish.
Shakespeare’s Cousin will run at the White Bear Theatre from 10 to 28 November 2026, with previews on 10 and 11 November and a press night on 12 November.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
