In 2009, at the beginning of Penelope Skinner’s career, the British playwright made a splash at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe with a production titled F**ked. It was a one-woman show in which an angry, drug-addicted stripper reads her childhood diaries. Skinner frequently puts female sexuality and rage at the center of her work. In her new play, Lyonesse, a one-time Hollywood star named Elaine attempts a comeback after a 30-year hiatus. Knowing the scarcity of starring roles for middle-aged women, Elaine has Kate, a young film executive, help engineer her return. Described by Skinner as a “flipped” revenge tragedy, the production stars the divine Kristin Scott Thomas and the darling Lily James. —Jensen Davis
The Arts Intel Report
A Cultural Compass
For the World Traveler
For the World Traveler
A Cultural Compass
For the World Traveler
Lyonesse

Kristin Scott Thomas and Lily James, the stars of Lyonesse.
When
Oct 17–27, 2023
Where
Etc
Photo: Michael Wharley