Synopsis
Set at the time of the Restoration, this rags-to-royalty story of love and intrigue starts in London at the Bawdy House, where a young Nell Gwyn lives and works with her mother.
One day, the King passes nearby and Nell trips in front of his cortège. She giggles at his lavish hat - and he gives it to her...
Several years later Nell takes a job selling oranges in the Playhouse, and as she becomes more confident she is noticed by a couple of gentlemen who need a leading lady. Her acting training begins.
At her first performance not only is she courted by Samuel Pepys and Lord Buckhurst, she is also noticed by the King.
Nell confides her love for the King to her friend, Mary-Ann, who tries to discourage Nell from her dream. But Nell’s acting career goes from strength to strength, and one day after a performance she is invited to visit him.
So begins a relationship that endures for nearly 20 years, until the King’s death in 1685. She bears him two sons, James and Charles, and is even partially accepted by the Queen.
Renowned for her native wit and considered a folk heroine, NELL, “the most famous Restoration actress of all time” is brought to life with all her passion and vibrancy on the musical stage.
C A S T I N G C A L L !
If you're a Somerset local, why not audition to be part of the original cast of Nell! The Musical? Work with the shows directors and writers to workshop the production before performing to a live audience for a fantastic outdoor premiere at Charlton House, Charlton Mackrell on 27th and 28th June, 2026.
AUDITIONS WILL TAKE PLACE ON 22nd NOVEMBER, 2025
9:45 (for 10am start)
The Community Centre, Top Road, Charlton Adam, TA11 7BE
You will have the chance to go through the audition pieces as a group, as well as chat to the directors and learn some movement.
Should you wish to have access to the audition materials prior to the audition,
please email us at info@nellthemusical.co.uk to request access.
Download PDF of Characters
A B R A N D N E W M U S I C A L B A S E D O N T H E
I N S P I R A T I O N A L L I F E O F N E L L G W Y N
Nell! The Musical is a rags-to-royalty tale of a resilient and ambitious young woman, Nell Gwyn: orange seller, comedic actress, and mistress to King Charles II.
See her story come to life in this vibrant new musical, set to premiere at
Charlton House, Charlton Mackrell, on:
Friday 26th June, 2026
Saturday 27th June 2026
T H E R E A L N E L L
Nell Gwyn was a celebrated English actress and mistress of King Charles II. Born in 1650, she rose from humble beginnings to become one of the first women to perform on the English stage. Known for her wit, charm, and beauty, she became a beloved figure both at court and among the public. Her relationship with the king lasted for many years, and they had two sons together. Nell is often remembered as a symbol of the Restoration era’s lively spirit.
F U N D I N G
The Nell Team is working diligently behind the scenes to bring this exciting production to life. A significant part of this effort involves securing essential funding through grants and sponsorships. These financial contributions are vital in covering production costs and ensuring that the creative vision is realised to its fullest potential. From set design and costumes to technical support and artist fees, every aspect of the project relies on the generosity and partnership of supporters who believe in the power of storytelling and the arts.
If you or your organisation are passionate about supporting innovative and meaningful creative work, we would love to hear from you. Whether through a grant, corporate sponsorship, or individual donation, your support can play a crucial role in bringing Nell! The Musical to audiences and making a lasting impact. This is not just an investment in a production—it's a chance to be part of a creative journey from the ground up.
To learn more about how you can contribute, collaborate, or connect with the team, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Your involvement—big or small—makes a difference.