Union Theatre is set to present Mary by Rona Munro at Hill Street Theatre in Edinburgh, running from Monday 15 to Saturday 20 June 2026.
The production marks the Edinburgh-based company’s contribution to completing Munro’s acclaimed cycle The James Plays in Scotland, following earlier productions staged by National Theatre Scotland, Raw Material and Capital Theatres.
Set in 1567, Mary is a political thriller inspired by the dramatic downfall of Mary, Queen of Scots, focusing on the turbulent period following the murder of her husband Lord Darnley and her controversial decision to marry the Earl of Bothwell.
The play centres on James Melville, a loyal servant to Mary Stuart, who must navigate conflicting loyalties and dangerous truths as questions of guilt, power and complicity threaten to destabilise the Scottish court.
Through the perspectives of a courtier, a devout Protestant servant and an ambitious opportunist, the play examines Mary’s motivations and explores modern themes of sexual violence, male collusion and historical narrative.
Originally premiered at Hampstead Theatre in 2022, Mary forms part of Munro’s wider theatrical exploration of Scottish history, which spans the reigns of James I to James V.
The production is Union Theatre Company’s inaugural show and reinforces the company’s commitment to grassroots theatre-making and collaborative Fringe-style work in Edinburgh throughout the year.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
